2026 Design Awards / Categories
Association of Licensed Architects
Design Awards categories
A classification guide for your submission.
Every entry is submitted under one category from the list below. Categories are used for classification only. Projects are not judged against others in their category, so choose the option that best describes your project and don't spend too much time deciding between close calls.
We encourage projects of all sizes to enter, from a single room addition to a full campus. Use this page as a reference while you're completing your entry in Award Force.
Main Categories
Architecture
Buildings
Interiors
Interior design with no impact on exterior appearance or structure
Elements
Unique details, components, or furniture
Types of Construction
Project Type
Choose the project type that comes closest to describing your entry.
Single Family Homes
Multi-Family Homes
Examples include, but are not limited to, apartment buildings and retirement living.
Commercial
Examples include, but are not limited to, shopping and retail centers, hotels and motels, office buildings, and free standing restaurants.
Mixed Use
Projects combining multiple uses, such as residences, hotels, office space, shopping, restaurants, public space, and cultural attractions.
Institutional
Examples include, but are not limited to, primary and secondary schools, colleges and universities, government offices and facilities, correctional facilities, recreational facilities, hospitals, nursing homes, fire and police stations, and museums.
Religious
Examples include, but are not limited to, churches, synagogues, temples, and mausoleums.
Industrial
Examples include, but are not limited to, warehousing, service centers, and manufacturing.
Questions about where your project fits? Call the ALA office at 847.382.0630, or email ALA@licensedarchitect.org.
2026 Entries Closed
Entries closed August 28, 2026. Winners are honored at the Gala on November 5. The 2027 call opens next July.