Architecture Award
Celebrates the best contemporary architecture—highlighting the many ways buildings and spaces can improve our lives.
Questions about program policies, application requirements, or how to submit online? Please see the AIA Awards FAQ for more information on the awards submission process.
Honoring the best in contemporary architecture
The Architecture program celebrates the best contemporary architecture regardless of budget, size, style, or type. These stunning projects show the world the range of outstanding work architects create and highlight the many ways buildings and spaces can improve our lives.
Questions? Email AIA Awards
Entrants
- Any U.S. licensed architect may enter.
- Submitting architects do not have to be the head of the team.
- Projects must credit every substantial contributor.
Projects
- New construction, renovations, and restorations are eligible.
- Projects may be located anywhere in the world but must have been designed by a U.S. licensed architect.
- Projects must have been completed since January 1, 2019.
2026
Submissions open September 12, 2025.
Specific information regarding program policies (i.e., applicant eligibility, nominator options, etc.), required application components (i.e., letters of reference, candidate/project information fields, etc.), and other elements relevant in the 2026 iteration of the program will be available in the online application portal once the award begins accepting materials. All materials must be submitted via the online portal (i.e., cannot be accepted via email, phone, shared online drive, fax, post, etc.) by the prescribed deadline(s): deadline extension or exception requests will not be granted. Applicants and interested parties are encouraged to seek award assistance well in advance of application deadlines to minimize the risk for ineligibility and/or application noncompliance rendering the entry removed from review.
Fee: Single project submissions are $450 each. Submitting the same project to additional award categories costs an extra $100 per category.
Application Components
Extensive information on the materials required to submit an application is housed in the AIA online application portal. Please reference the information in this portal when the program is receiving materials for the 2026 season.
Review Criteria
- The jury evaluates entries based on how successfully projects have met their individual requirements. All projects must demonstrate design achievement, including a sense of place and purpose, ecology and environmental sustainability, and history.
- More specifically, the jury also evaluates entries relative to the AIA Framework for Design Excellence. Submitted projects do not have to adhere to all measures but need to address several of them. Submitters are strongly encouraged to consider their submission materials in this context.
For information on 2025 recipients of this award program visit our awards management portal.
Recipients of this award from 2024 and 2023 can be found at AIA award winners. For previous recipients please contact AIA Archives.
Explore the AIA Architecture Award 2025 winners—recognized as the best in contemporary architecture regardless of budget, size, style, or type.
