Our May Photo Challenge gave us glimpses of many interesting homes, buildings, architectural details, and engineering wonders. Here are the images that stood out to our panel of judges.

We like the variety of colors, textures, and shapes in this nicely composed shot by Jim Reavis.

The post-processing work in Donald Zdenahlik’s barn image does a nice job of bringing out the structure’s texture. We liked that the texture in the wood was echoed in the passing clouds.

The colors in this striking shot by Irene Thompson reminds us of vintage postcards.

Thick clouds and muted lighting gives this image by Penelope Ulander and delightfully ominous air. We like the saturated colors and lines sweeping upward toward the house.

By simplifying the background and architectural details, Betty Eich does a nice job of emphasizing the building’s unusual ship-like form.

With dramatic lighting and rich golden tones, this photo by Bob Deasy feels like a loving tribute to the New York City skyline.

We love the unusual perspective and composition in this beautiful image by Karen Smith.

There’s a quiet simplicity to Dan DellaChiesa’s endless doorway shot. The black-and-white processing fits it perfectly.

With its good use of the Rule of Thirds and rich colors, this dome image by Don Johnson was already a great shot. But the brilliant shaft of light bursting from the lower left corner turns it into something special.

Winner: The repetition of shapes and patterns in Richard Stavale’s mesmerizing stairwell shot keeps the eye moving and gives the photo a nice abstract quality. The lighting and composition are both lovely.

Congratulations to all our Top Picks!