CHELSEA, Mass. — Two partners — Robert J. Verrier, FAIA, cofounding/managing principal, and Michael D. Binette, AIA, principal — with The Architectural Team will receive the 2013 Paul E. Tsongas Award from the nonprofit advocacy group Preservation Massachusetts. Selected for their award-winning work promoting and sustaining the preservation of historically significant buildings for more than 40 years, the two principals devote a significant portion of the firm's efforts to preservation projects, making it a primary area of The Architectural Team's expertise and specialization.

With more than 150 historic preservation developments in their portfolio, Verrier and Binette have earned a place among other prestigious development firms, notable architecture firms, legal teams and construction companies being honored this year for contributions to safeguarding the unique character of landmark buildings throughout Massachusetts.

The awards program, named after the late Mass. Sen. Paul Tsongas, will take place Wednesday, May 1 at the Fairmont Copley Plaza Hotel in Boston. This year's awards mark the beginning of a three-year thematic program honoring "the people behind the scenes, who truly make historic preservation projects happen," according to Preservation Massachusetts President Jim Igoe.

“We are extremely excited to recognize the work of these individuals and firms over the next three years," Igoe said. "The unwavering dedication, expertise and collaborative effort put into preserving our historic buildings is remarkable. Our intent is to pay tribute to the people that make preservation a reality here in Massachusetts and celebrate the many buildings that create the historic fabric of America.”

For more information, visit www.architecturalteam.com.