Connecticut builders are buzzing. Milton, Coastal Construction, Mayfair and Gardiner Larson all report excellent activity in custom projects, and several of them have considerable developments under way. And we couldn’t be happier. ■ As we gear up for our sixth annual Innovation in Design Awards (IDAs), we are seeing interest mount as entrants and past winners tell each other about the competition and the networking opportunities that spring up throughout IDA season. Over the past five years, we’ve seen relationships form between architects and interior designers, and landscape designers connecting with builders, and so on. Does everyone enter to win? Of course. But the added bonus of being part of the competition is this sense of community that has evolved over the years, with design professionals connecting across projects and disciplines—all to the benefit of one another. ■ Call for entries is out, so we are asking everyone in the circle of influence to urge colleagues to enter by March 30. If you are an architect, builder, designer, real estate broker or homeowner who knows of a great project, we encourage you to have it submitted. The five categories are Landscape Design, Interior Design, Kitchen and Bath Design and Architecture. The Architecture category is very popular at the awards ceremony, as breathtaking homes flash across the screens and everyone waits for the final announcements. Recognizing that these fantastic edifices would not exist without the area’s master builders, this year we are introducing the Builders Recognition Award, which honors the builders of the top three Architecture winners. ■ And in our March issue, we are running a special advertising section called “Builders You Should Know.” Contact us for more information on how to be a part of it.