AIA 2026 Awards winners announced in 10 project categories

The American Institute of Architects (AIA) proudly announced the winners of its 2026 Awards during a gala held at the Hilton San Diego Bayfront. This highly anticipated red carpet-style event celebrated more than 100 award winners.

“Every project honored across these 10 award programs is a powerful reminder of architecture’s profound impact on our communities—and its role in shaping a stronger future for generations to come,” said 2026 AIA President Illya Azaroff, FAIA. “The projects are forward-looking, creating spaces that uplift, connect, and inspire. Together, the winners demonstrate how thoughtful design can enrich lives and help build a better future for all.”

The AIA Awards Gala brought together distinguished architects, industry professionals, and supporters to honor outstanding achievements in the 10 award categories announced during the gala:  

• Architecture Award, honoring the best contemporary architecture regardless of budget, size, style, or type. See the winners here. 
• COTE Top Ten Award, the industry’s best-known award for sustainable design excellence. See the winners here.
• Education Facility Design Award, celebrating state-of-the-art learning environments, including early childhood, K-12, alternative, higher education, and non-traditional environments. See the winners here.
• Healthcare Design Award, recognizing the most innovative, functional, and sustainable projects in healthcare and design. See the winners here. 
• Housing Award, honoring the best home design that showcases how beauty, safety, sustainability, and comfort come together. See the winners here.
• Interior Architecture Award, celebrating the most innovative and spectacular interior spaces across a range of projects. See the winners here.
• Justice Facility Award, recognizing the best in design for justice architecture. See the winners here.
• Regional & Urban Design Award, honoring the best in urban design, regional and city planning, and community development. See the winners here.
• Small Project Award, recognizing the value and design excellence that architects provide regardless of size and budget. See the winners here.
• Twenty-Five Year Award, awarded to a building that has set an architectural design standard of excellence for 25–35 years. See winner here. 

For more information on the 2026 AIA Awards and to view the winning projects, visit AIA Awards.

About The American Institute of Architects 

Founded in 1857, The American Institute of Architects (AIA) consistently works to create more valuable, healthy, secure, and sustainable buildings, neighborhoods, and communities. Through more than 200 international, state and local chapters, AIA advocates for public policies that promote economic vitality and public wellbeing. It provides members with tools and resources to assist them in their careers and business as well as engaging civic and government leaders and the public to find solutions to pressing issues facing our communities, institutions, nation, and world. Members adhere to a code of ethics and conduct to ensure the highest professional standards.