The Dallas Chapter of the American Institute of Architects has recognized Dallas-based McCarthy Building Cos. as the 2009 Contractor of the Year for its efforts at taking on technically oriented, complex projects. McCarthy was selected along with 13 other organizations and individuals for their contributions to the city’s cultural and architectural environment.

The Contractor of the Year award is given to the general contractor that has advanced architecture through its achievement of the built environment, according to the AIA.

“We have a reputation and a strong desire to build the most complex projects in our markets,” says Chris Peck, McCarthy vice president. “We’ve had the great fortune of building the first high-rise in Dallas in the last 20 years with the W Dallas Victory Hotel & Residences, as well as a complicated building like the Dee and Charles Wyly Theatre.”

McCarthy strives to stand out from other contractors by focusing on its technical orientation, Peck adds.

“We’re always trying to really figure out the building and come up with the most efficient way to build it,” he says.