Call for Entries: 2025 Design Awards

Entries to the 2025 Design Awards program are now being accepted. AIA Virginia’s Awards for Excellence in Architecture (also known as the Design Awards) recognize outstanding design, built and unbuilt, from the past seven years. The program is juried by a team of esteemed practitioners from outside of the region.

No specific number of awards is set, and the program is open to all categories of building as well as interiors projects. The location of projects is not restricted, but any built works submitted for consideration must have been completed on or after Jan. 1, 2018. 

All submissions are due by Friday, June 27, 2025 at 5 p.m.

The Design Awards program is sponsored by:

Bronze
Bamforth Engineers + Surveyors


Each entry must include a completed Framework for Design Excellence Project Information Form as page one of their submission. Note: Entrants should not feel obligated to respond to every measure within the Framework — only those that apply to the project being submitted. It is understood that every project is different and may not respond to each measure within the Framework. The jury will consider each design holistically and within context. (Note on the form itself – make sure all of your entry text is visible from the PDF before uploading.)

Submission Requirements

MAY NOT EXCEED 12 MB, 8 pages, and pages 2-7 may not exceed 16:9 widescreen aspect ratio in page size This PDF must include: Page 1: Required Framework for Design Excellence Project Information Sheet (Note on the form itself – make sure all of your entry text is visible from the PDF before uploading) Page 2: Brief project description (voided of design firm’s name or logo) and category to which it is being submitted Pages 3,4,5,6, 7: Photographs, renderings, and/or plans/sections that provide a clear understanding of the project. Also encouraged are concept sketches that communicate the development of the project and or its method of construction. There may not be any information in this document that identifies the firm. Entries with identifying information will be disqualified.

Awards Categories include:

  • Architecture;
  • Design for Context;
  • Unbuilt Architecture;
  • Extended Use;
    • Historic Preservation
    • Adaptive or Continued Use
  • Interiors;
  • Residential; and
  • Small Projects
    • Up to $150K in construction cost
    • Up to $500K in construction cost
    • Under 5,000 square feet

Check out the complete descriptions of each award category, and review the regulations, eligibility requirements, and frequently asked questions for more information.

Entries are due by 5 p.m. on June 27, 2025. Note: You should be prepared to submit your concealed ID and project submission upon entry.


Entry fees

AIA Virginia Members:
$210 for the first project
$180 for each additional project
The Small Projects Category has a reduced entry fee of $100
Note: The entrant must be a member of AIA Virginia to be eligible to receive the member discount. The submitting AIA Virginia member must be a contributor to the design team.

Non-members of the AIAVA (must have an office located in Virginia):
$295 for the first project
$270 for each additional project
The Small Projects Category has a reduced entry fee of $200

Not an AIA Virginia member? Apply for unassigned membership.


About the Framework for Design Excellence

Developed by members of the AIA, the Framework for Design Excellence, represents the defining principles of good design in the 21st century. It’s intended to be accessible and relevant for every architect, every client, and every project — regardless of size, typology, or aspiration.

The 10 measures that make up the Framework are intended to inspire progress toward a zero-carbon, equitable, resilient, and healthy built environment. They represent standards of excellence as defined by members of the AIA. These measures align with the AIA’s core values which are collectively defined by members across the country.

The completed Framework for Design Excellence Project Information Form is required and shall be page 1 of each submission. The remaining 6 pages of each submission may be designed and defined by the entrant.

Use the Project Narrative section to describe how the design aligns with the Framework for Design Excellence. Entrants are encouraged to address all applicable measures.

We recognize every project is different and may not respond to every measure within the Framework. The jury will consider the design holistically and within context.

Data may not be available for some metrics on the form, or the client may prefer to keep certain metrics confidential. If this is the case, space is provided on the form to provide an explanation.

Entrants are encouraged to call out extraordinary responses to specific measures in the remaining 6 pages of their submission as well.

Call for Nominations: AIA Virginia Honors 2025

Do you have a colleague or a friend of the industry who deserves recognition? Is there a firm with a great culture that consistently produces incredible work? Is there a building that has captured your heart? Consider nominating them for an AIA Virginia Honor.   

Nominations for all AIA Virginia honors may be made by individual members, by chapter honors committees, by AIA Virginia committees, or by the Board of Directors itself.

More information and submission instructions>>

The deadline is Friday, June 13, 2025, at 5 p.m.

New Mid-Career Professional Program: Leaders in Architecture & Business

Applications Now Open!

Each year, a cohort of experienced architects will learn essential skills for managing people, time, finances, and firms – while building an enduring community of peer support. Over 8 months, content-experts will provide a comprehensive overview of the business and management practices architects need to manage creative teams and build stronger, more profitable firms. Sessions will be held monthly on Fridays from 9:30a.m. – 5:00p.m.

Are you an architect ready to elevate your career?

The Leaders in Architecture & Business (LAB) program is a comprehensive business management training initiative designed specifically for experienced architects like you, who are transitioning from hands-on production to leadership roles – whether as managers, firm owners, or entrepreneurs.

What is LAB?

LAB is an intensive, cohort-based program that provides you with the essential business acumen and leadership skills needed to thrive in today’s dynamic architectural world. Through expert-led sessions, hands-on workshops, and real-world case studies, you’ll gain practical knowledge and build a powerful network of peers and industry leaders to help you succeed.

Who Should Attend?

LAB is ideal for AIA members who:

  • Have around 10+ years of experience in the field.
  • Currently manage projects and people – or aspire to.
  • Current or future leaders in their firm or organization.
  • Are considering starting their own architectural practice.
  • Want to enhance their leadership capabilities and advance their career.

What You’ll Gain:

LAB will equip you with practical tools and knowledge to:

  • Lead and Manage High-Performing Teams: Master effective communication, delegation, and conflict resolution strategies to build more collaborative and productive teams.
  • Win work & attract the right clients: Learn to identify and attract your ideal client, and communicate your value to win more of the right kind of work.
  • Navigate Firm Finances with Confidence: Understand financial management principles for effective accounting, budgeting, projections, and performance analysis.
  • Optimize Time and Maximize Productivity: Develop effective time management techniques and strategies to prioritize tasks, manage deadlines, and achieve work-life balance.
  • Grow, Change, or Start a Firm: Learn from industry experts how to manage, grow, change, or start a firm through business development strategies, marketing and sales techniques, and operations management best practices that enhance firm performance.
  • Enhance Business Acumen: Develop skills in risk management, contracts, and negotiation.

Program Highlights:
LAB participants meet monthly over 8 months, and learn from a variety of content experts, within and outside the architecture profession. Through a variety of in-person classes, workshops, and case studies, you will gain the practical skills you need to lead. The program offers:

  • Comprehensive Curriculum: Covering essential business management topics tailored for architects.
  • Expert-Led Sessions: Learn from industry leaders, business experts, and seasoned architects.
  • Cohort-Based Learning: Build a strong network of peers through collaborative workshops and group discussions.
  • Practical Application: Apply new skills and knowledge to real-world scenarios through case studies and hands-on activities.
  • Lasting Connections: Forge valuable relationships with peers and industry experts that extend beyond the program.

Key Dates

These are key dates for Leaders in Architecture & Business class of 2025:

  • Applications: Applications are open from March 6 to April 18, 2025.
  • Sessions occur every 3-4 weeks over 8 months on Fridays from 9:30a.m. – 5:00p.m. with three (3) social hours within the 8 months. Session will be held in-person throughout the Commonwealth.
  • Applicants will be notified of acceptance by Wednesday, April 30, 2025.

Invest in Your Future

More than just business training, LAB is an investment in your future success. By developing your business and leadership skills, you’ll be better equipped to lead teams, manage projects, control your finances, and drive innovation within your firm.

Ready to take your career to the next level?

Applications for the LAB program are now open! Apply here by April 18th.

A Look into the Program:

People Management (3 sessions)
1. Design Your Career + Work/Life Balance May 16, 2025 – Charlottesville
2. Effective Communication + Decision Making June 13, 2025 – Virginia Beach
3. Firm Culture + Effective Teams July 11, 2025 – Richmond
Financial Management (1 session)
4. Basic Accounting August 1 – Northern Virginia
Time Management (2 sessions)
5. Time Management for Individuals + Teams August 29 – Roanoke
6. Project Management Best Practices September 19 – Norfolk
Firm Management (3 sessions)
7. Winning Work: Marketing + Business Development October 17 – Charlottesville
8. Contracts, Negotiations, + Risk Management November 5-7 – Richmond, Architecture Exchange East
9. Strategic Planning & Leadership Transitions December 5 – Northern Virginia

Don’t miss this opportunity to become a true Leader in Architecture & Business!

The Leaders in Architecture & Business program is generously sponsored by:

Pella Windows & Doors
The Garland Company

If you would like to sponsor the LAB program, please contact Jody Cranford.

ArchEx 2025: Call for Presentations

Architecture Exchange East is the annual thought-leadership conference and expo curated by AIA Virginia. The conference will be held Nov. 5-7, 2025, in Richmond at the Richmond Marriott. Our goal is to bring together the brightest minds and most engaging speakers to present talks that are future-focused on a wide range of subjects, to provoke important conversations among design professionals, and to promote networking, relationship building, and collaboration.

This year’s theme is: Design the Future: Advancing Technology, Community & Business.

Celebrating its 38th year, ArchEx has always strived to help push the profession forward. We are looking for exciting and engaging topics and speakers to make this year unforgettable.

We value sessions that encourage conversation, connections, and collaborative learning. Think workshops, roundtables, tours, and interactive panels. Many of our session slots will be 60 minutes, but we can consider reserving longer time slots for more in-depth explorations. 

To propose an offering, complete and submit the Presentation Proposal Form by April 30, 2025. Your proposal will be reviewed, and you will be contacted no later than July 2024. Incomplete forms will not be accepted.

Requirements

  • Submit a completed proposal form online
  • Proposals must be received by the deadline date.
  • Expert speakers with public speaking experience are preferred
  • Presentation content must be sufficient for the proposed length of the session

Deadline is 11:59 p.m., April 30, 2025

Decision Process

All proposals are evaluated by AIA Virginia’s Education Advisory Council to ensure they address the educational needs of the audience and that the program is well-balanced. The submission review process will begin in May and will continue until the end of June.

If you would like to be a part of the Education Advisory Council and help shape the ArchEx program, please contact Delaney Ogden at dogden@aiava.org.

Suggestions and Questions

Suggestions for potential speakers or questions about the conference can be directed to Delaney Ogden, Director of Education at dogden@aiava.org.

Suggested Topics

  • Sustainable Design
  • Tours — Projects of interest, in progress or recently completed, restoration, redevelopment, urban planning, art installations, artist studios, creatives, historical architecture, etc.
  • Tours/experiences of cultural, historical, and artistic interest
  • Workshops/experiences that involve community design/engagement
  • Business planning
  • Excellence in Design
  • New Uses of Technology
  • Codes
  • Accessibility
  • Leadership
  • Office management
  • Residential design
  • Healthcare and wellness

We encourage interactive presentations (panel discussion, live Q&A/audience participation, slide show/visual presentation etc.) and those that qualify for HSW credit. We also encourage presentations to tie to this year’s theme of – Design the Future: Advancing Technology, Community & Business.