New architecture and design competitions: Archtober Postcards, World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize, Architecture MasterPrize, and Shade Zones Design Competition

This edition of Bustler's curated picks of noteworthy architecture and design competitions features four calls seeking postcards that feature meaningful New York City public spaces, individuals and organizations working to revitalize modernist architecture, outstanding creations pushing the boundaries of sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality, and student-designed modular and reusable shade structures for Los Angeles.

For the complete directory of newly listed competitions, click here.

“Wish You Were Here” Archtober Postcard Competition
Registration/Submission Deadline: Monday, August 18, 2025

"For Archtober’s 2025 Postcard Competition, in tandem with this year’s festival theme, Shared Spaces, we’re asking New Yorkers to delve deep into the common areas that shape our lives. Submit your vision in the form of a postcard, featuring the phrase 'Wish You Were Here.' The expression conjures place, memory, and longing—a space worth sharing. Whether it’s an art museum that feels like home or a waterfront that offers some respite, we want to see the public spaces that you would invite us into."

World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize 2026
Registration/Submission Deadline: Friday, September 5, 2025

"The World Monuments Fund/Knoll Modernism Prize is a biennial award recognizing outstanding achievements in saving buildings emblematic of the modernist architectural movement.  Once considered the vanguard of architecture, many Modernist buildings are falling victim to deterioration, perceived irrelevancy, and public apathy. These threats often result in demolition or alterations that compromise the building’s integrity. Many modern structures are too young to qualify for landmark designation and protection, and as such, require additional support for their preservation."

The Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) 2025
Registration/Submission Deadline: Tuesday, September 30, 2025

"The Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) celebrates its 10th anniversary in 2025, inviting architects, designers, and visionaries from across the globe to submit outstanding work that redefines our built environment. Over the past decade, AMP has become one of the most respected architecture awards, consistently showcasing projects that push the boundaries of sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality."

Shade Zones Design Competition
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, October 15, 2025
Submission Deadline: Thursday, January 15, 2026

"As L.A. gets ready to welcome the world, we need shade that moves with us - wherever we are. And we’re inviting the next generation of talent to help us create it.  This year, USC School of Architecture and LA Metro are inviting student designers to bring their A-game to create modular, reusable shade structures to keep Angelenos cool and keep LA moving — whether for daily commutes or major events. Starting Sept. 1, teams of undergrad or grad students at any college or university in LA County can register to get in the game."

Would you like to contribute competitions, award programs, or calls for submissions that aren't listed on Bustler yet? Send them directly to our team to review. We may include them in our next roundup.