New architecture and design competitions: Architecture at Zero, Kinderspace, Ecological Design Challenge, and KCMA Design Awards

If you're in search of new, exciting architecture and design competitions, take a look at the latest curated picks of challenges listed on Bustler. Featured below are four briefs seeking innovative designs of educational spaces for early childhood learning, outstanding kitchen design projects, site furnishings that better serve people, while also addressing ecological and climate challenges, and proposals reimagining an educational cultural venue in Lancaster, California, into a site that also serves as a command post during regional disasters.

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

Kinderspace: Architecture for Children's Development competition / Edition #3
Registration Deadline: Wednesday, November 26, 2025
Submission Deadline: Monday, January 19, 2026

"Introducing the Kinderspace: Architecture for Children's Development competition / Edition #3, an architectural challenge dedicated to crafting innovative educational spaces that enhance early childhood learning. [...] This competition seeks to transform kindergarten design by creating environments that are not only safe and functional but also stimulating and inclusive. Participants are encouraged to conceive spaces that foster learning, creativity, and community interaction, using sustainable and innovative design solutions that promote healthy development."

2026 KCMA Design Awards
Registration/Submission Deadline: Monday, December 15, 2025

"Now entering its third year, the competition invites Architects across the U.S. and Canada to submit their most outstanding kitchen design projects featuring KCMA Member cabinets. [...] All eligible entries will be evaluated by an esteemed panel of six design professionals, using a holistic framework that includes seven judging criteria: Innovation, Aesthetics, Functionality, Durability, Utility, Emotional Quotient (EQ), and Overall Rating. Bonus points are awarded for projects using KCMA Quality Certified cabinets or KCMA Environmental Stewardship Program (ESP) participants."

Ecological Design Challenge
Registration Deadline: Thursday, January 15, 2026
Submission Deadline: Saturday, February 28, 2026

"The Ecological Design Challenge is a call to action for designers, architects, engineers, and creative thinkers of all kinds to reimagine the role of site elements in shaping sustainable, resilient cities. [...] We invite participants to design a piece of furniture, an object, or a device that goes beyond conventional site furnishings. Your design should not only serve people—it should also contribute to environmental solutions. This challenge is about pushing boundaries and exploring new intersections between design, ecology, and material innovation."

Architecture at Zero Competition 2026
Registration/Submission Deadline: Monday, June 1, 2026

"Architecture at Zero 2026 is an international design competition focused on decarbonization, equity, and resilience. Open to students and professionals worldwide, the competition challenges entrants to envision La Plaza, a two-story, 10,000 sq. ft. educational and cultural venue at the Antelope Valley Fair and Event Center in Lancaster, California. The project must serve a dual purpose: a flexible cultural hub under normal conditions and a fully functional Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during regional disasters."

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.