2026 University Student Design Awards

How to Enter

The 2026 AIA Memphis Design Awards submission is in an electronic format. Upon receipt of your online entry form and fee, and after the entry deadline, you will be provided an official submission template with step-by-step instructions. 

Integration with the AIA Framework for Design Excellence (F4DE)

In alignment with the evolving landscape of architectural design, the AIA Memphis Design Awards Program now encourages submissions that reflect the principles outlined in the AIA’s Framework for Design Excellence (F4DE). While not mandatory, applicants are invited to highlight how their projects align with the F4DE, fostering a deeper dialogue around design innovation and sustainability. Firms are encouraged to select the Frameworks (up to three) that most align with their projects’ design strategies and incorporate them into their design narratives and graphics. No separate spreadsheet or essays are required.

The electronic format facilitates a submission in which all images contribute to supporting the program statement. Each visual should have a purpose as it relates to the larger idea. The photos should contain a few compelling pieces of information to make the statement readily understood from a quick scan. Be sure to label plans clearly, indicating a north arrow. Within each square, you can layer images and plans or place images side-by-side. Keep in mind the impact the image will make once projected on a large screen.

There are three steps to the entry process.

1. Submit your online entry form, fee and classification by August 24, 2026.
2. You will receive a code number, instructions and electronic template for each entry via email after the entry deadline date. 
3. Submit your entry via UPLOAD by 5:00 p.m. (CST) on October 5. Submissions will NOT be accepted via email.

Eligibility

Submissions are open to individuals who have graduated from an architecture program within the past five (5) years. Eligible participants must have completed the submitted work while enrolled as a student. Projects may be either unbuilt or built, but must represent work for which the submitting individual was solely responsible for the design. Collaborative or team projects are not eligible unless the applicant can clearly demonstrate sole authorship of the submitted portion.

Classification

For clarity only, please designate the general classification of the submitted project.  The basic classifications are as follows: New Construction; Renovation/Restoration; Architectural Interior Design.  Jurors will select from the collection of all entries and shall not be obligated to provide awards for each classification. 

Awards

Each project will be judged according to its own merit, and how well it solves the problem addressed. Projects will not be judged in competition with each other, but by measuring the student’s performance against each project’s potential. Awards can be given in two categories: Honor and Merit. Honor Awards will be granted for overall design excellence. Merit Awards will be granted at the discretion of the jury. Award recipients will be announced, and awards presented at the AIA Memphis annual conference.

Submittal guidelines are detailed completely in the Submittal Instructions which will be sent with your code number, but the following are required for integration into the template: 

• Project Information
  Include program statement, program summary, area and cost per square foot, construction cost, completion date, project code number and classification.
• Plans and Drawings
  Include site plan, floor plan(s) or details describing special features, construction systems, “before” views, etc. 
• Photography Images
  Include exterior views showing major elevations, interior views (one or more), other views or details describing special features, nighttime images, construction systems, “before” views, etc. It is the responsibility of the entrant to obtain all clearances for use.