The Housing Knowledge Community of the American Institute of Architects (AIA), in conjunction with the Office of the Secretary of the U.S. Department of Housing & Urban Development (HUD), recognizes excellence in affordable housing architecture, neighborhood design, participatory design, and accessibility. Good design is a cornerstone of thriving homes and communities of all incomes and backgrounds. These awards demonstrate that design matters, and provide examples of important benchmarks in the housing industry.
To see more information on eligibility, submission categories and criteria, and to see past winning projects, click here.
Eligibility
Owners of structures and architects licensed in the United States may submit projects (located in the United States) of any size, budget, or style fitting the eligibility guidelines.
New construction, renovations, and restored developments in the United States are eligible. Only developments or projects completed after January 1, 2011, will be considered for this award.
Submission Categories
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Category 1: Excellence in Affordable Housing Design Award
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Category 2: Creating Community Connection Award
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Category 3: Community-Informed Design Award
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Category 4: Housing Accessibility-Alan J. Rothman Award
Submission Criteria
Each entry will be judged for the success with which the project has met its individual requirements, with particular emphasis on design excellence. Sustainability, affordability, innovation, addressing both natural and built context, as well as meeting the specific needs of the client are criteria that will also be evaluated in selecting up to one project in each category. Awards may not be presented in all categories. Entries will be weighed on individual merit and not in competition with one another.
Fee
The non-refundable entry fee for this program is $375.00.
Be Recognized for Your Work
Award winning projects will be recognized in AIA publications and electronic media, including the Housing website. Award winners will also be celebrated and recognized at an awards ceremony at the 2016 AIA National Convention, and projects will be displayed at the Convention and Design Exposition.
Regardless of award recipient status please be aware that any material submitted has the potential to be used by the AIA and/or the U.S. Department for Housing and Urban Development (HUD) for their online Best Practices section. The Best Practices section draws attention to housing development projects that promote sustainability and affordability to benefit diverse populations. For more information visit: HUD's Office of Policy Development and Research.
