Scenic Walton Honors Alys Beach with Design Excellence Award
FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE
Scenic Walton Honors Alys Beach with Design Excellence Award
Khoury Vogt Architects Recognized for Their Role in Shaping the Community’s Architectural Vision
Walton County, FL — (March 6, 2026) — Scenic Walton proudly presented its Design Excellence Award to Alys Beach during a special ceremony on February 26, 2026, recognizing the community’s extraordinary commitment to architectural integrity, thoughtful planning, and enduring scenic beauty along Walton County’s Scenic Highway 30A corridor.
The award was accepted by Robert Stenhammer, Vice President and General Manager of Alys Beach, on behalf of Alys Beach and its owner EBSCO Gulf Coast Development, Inc. The award was presented by Leigh Moore, Executive Director of Scenic Walton, with Tony Vallee, President of the Scenic Walton Board of Directors, in attendance representing the organization’s board.
Scenic Walton’s Design Excellence Award celebrates businesses and organizations that demonstrate exceptional commitment to excellent architecture, landscaping, signage, and overall scenic quality in the built environment. Since its launch in 2017, the award has recognized projects that enhance the visual character and environmental appeal of Walton County.
“Alys Beach represents one of the most thoughtfully designed and carefully executed communities anywhere along our coast,” said Leigh Moore, Executive Director of Scenic Walton. “Its commitment to architectural excellence, timeless design, and respect for place has set a standard not only for Walton County but for coastal communities nationwide.”
Moore added, “Few communities along the Gulf Coast demonstrate the level of architectural discipline and continuity found at Alys Beach. The development’s dedication to maintaining a clear architectural vision over time has helped create a place that is both visually distinctive and deeply connected to its coastal environment.”
During the ceremony, Stenhammer and Moore also recognized Marieanne Khoury-Vogt and Erik Vogt of Khoury Vogt Architects, recipients of this year’s Seaside Prize for their body of work in architecture. The pair have served as the Town Architects at Alys Beach for more than fifteen years, helping steward the creators’ original vision while guiding the community’s thoughtful growth and development. “They have been stewards of the founders’ original vision and shepherds of the community’s growth and development,” Moore said. “Alys Beach flourishes today in no small part because they helped establish and maintain the architectural course that defines it.”
“We are honored to accept Scenic Walton’s Design Excellence Award on behalf of Alys Beach and our Town Architects,” said Robert Stenhammer, Vice President and General Manager of Alys Beach. “This recognition affirms the vision of the Stephens family and a shared commitment to life defined through thoughtful architecture, enduring landscapes, and an environment that enhances both place and people. From the beginning, Alys Beach was envisioned to enhance the natural beauty of Walton County while setting a timeless standard for design, stewardship, and community. We are grateful to Scenic Walton for reviving this important initiative and for celebrating projects that elevate the visual and environmental character of our region.”
“The vision behind Alys Beach and the discipline required to maintain that vision over time is truly remarkable,” said Tony Vallee, President of Scenic Walton’s Board of Directors. “It reflects a level of commitment to quality and design that benefits not only residents and visitors, but the entire Walton County community.”
With its iconic white architecture, carefully curated streetscapes, and dedication to design consistency, Alys Beach stands as one of the most distinctive communities along Florida’s Gulf Coast. Scenic Walton’s recognition highlights the development’s continued role as a model of thoughtful planning and architectural excellence. For more information about Scenic Walton and its initiatives, visit www.scenicwalton.org.
About Scenic Walton
Scenic Walton is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to preserving, protecting, and enhancing the beauty and safety of Walton County, Florida. The organization works to increase property values, support a thriving business environment, and ensure a visually appealing, safe and resilient community for residents and visitors alike.
Media Contact
Leigh Moore
Executive Director, Scenic Walton
850-974-2037 leigh@scenicwalton.org
