WAF Awards 2026

World Architecture Festival 2026 will return to the USA for its second year. At the heart of the festival sits a unique awards programme. All finalists will present their project live at the event in front of a panel of expert judges and their peers.

Why enter the WAF awards

Tell your story on a global stage
WAF is the only awards programme where every finalist presents their project live to an expert jury at the festival. This is your chance to showcase your vision, get direct feedback from industry leaders, and use their insight to strengthen your future work.

Gain invaluable visibility worldwide
The 2025 WAF Awards generated over 636 pieces of international press coverage, including in ArchDaily, Daily Telegraph, Architectural Digest France and Time Out.

Build a powerful international network
WAF's finalists, judges, and attendees span the globe. You'll develop meaningful connections with peers, collaborators, mentors, and potential clients, creating an invaluable network that lasts long after the festival.

Have your work judged by industry leaders
Our jury includes 140+ influential architects, designers, journalists, and experts. WAF’s rigorous and transparent judging process elevates your credibility and helps your work stand apart.

Gain a permanent legacy
Each entry is published on the World Buildings Directory, complete with images and a full project description. 

Amplify your success
All winners receive complimentary press kit distribution from our partner, v2com newswire, the global leader in architecture and design communications—reaching 7,000+ publications across 100+ countries.

Plus, all shortlisted entries located in China (including Hong Kong) and Taiwan will automatically be entered into the WAF China 2026 Awards giving you even more opportunities for recognition and success. Judging by the international juries will take place in Ningbo, from 20 to 22 September. NO ADDITIONAL ENTRY OR DELEGATE FEES WILL BE PAYABLE. For more details, see the WAF China website.

WAF's unique live-judging

May 2026: Entries close
All boards, images, and project descriptions must be submitted by the deadline.

June 2026: Shortlisting
A panel of leading architects and industry experts reviews every entry in person and selects the 2026 shortlist.

July 2026: Finalists announced

Shortlisted projects are published on WAF’s website and shared globally through international press and media partners.

All finalists must purchase two passes to attend and present at the Festival.

At WAF 2026: Live Judging
Finalists present their project for 10 minutes, followed by 8 minutes of Q&A with three category judges. All sessions take place in open ‘crit’ rooms so the WAF audience can watch the judging. Category winners are revealed at the end of each day.

Final day of WAF 2026: Super-jury presentations
Category winners present again to the Completed Building, Future Project or WAF Interiors Super-Jury. Overall winners and special prize winners are revealed at the Gala Dinner, concluding WAF’s uniquely interactive and rigorous judging process.

Award details