CBP Architects Managing Partner Nancy Bastian, FAIA, NCARB, LEED AP, has devoted her career to affordable housing – for families, seniors, people with disabilities, and those in recovery – designing with compassion, leading in her community, and demonstrating the value of innovative, thoughtful, affordable architecture. In recognition of her career and professional contributions, AIA Philadelphia will honor Nancy as the 2026 John Frederick Harbeson Award recipient during a celebration Thursday, November 12, at the Village of Industry & Art.
“I am very honored to receive this award and excited that it acknowledges the importance of affordable housing design. I have been fortunate to work alongside a wonderful team of colleagues, consultants, and the absolute best developer clients who have provided incredible support, collaboration, and encouragement for great design. Together, we have worked to bring affordability, compassion, and pride of place to more people.” – Nancy Bastian
For nearly three decades, Nancy has led and grown our affordable housing practice while advancing work for other clients. Her architectural approach prioritizes quality regardless of scope or budget. She’s both an empathetic designer and an engaged industry leader. Nancy co-chairs the Philadelphia Association of Community Development Corporations (PACDC) Fundraising Committee, serves as a vice chair of the Development Workshop, is a member and former co-chair of the Urban Land Institute (ULI) Philadelphia Housing Committee, and is a member of the Philadelphia Chamber of Commerce. With AIA Philadelphia, Nancy has served as a board member, as co-chair of the Housing Committee, and on the Women in Architecture Committee. She holds a B.Arch. from the University of Notre Dame, is NCARB certified, and in 2024, was elevated to Fellowship by AIA National.
Allowing a senior to age gracefully in place, enabling a disabled person to live independently, offering someone in recovery a supportive environment to succeed – these are a few of the many benefits of Nancy’s architectural innovations. Her work has raised the bar for how affordable housing clients approach their spaces. The work Nancy does is human, connected, and meaningful. She’s striving for more equity, one building at a time. She’s built her career making a difference and leaving an imprint that shapes projects and perspectives across the nation. On any given day, Nancy can travel around the region and see her projects. Better yet, she can see the lives impacted by her work – fewer unhoused or on the street and more living supported, fulfilling lives.
The John Frederick Harbeson Award is presented annually to a longstanding member of the architectural community to recognize significant lifetime contributions to the architectural profession, the American Institute of Architects, the architectural community, and the City of Philadelphia.
