The competition has been held every two years since 2004 and has attracted nearly 7,000 projects from students representing more than 800 schools of architecture in 130 countries. For participants in 2026, cash prizes of up to EUR 7,000 will be available, with winners selected by an international jury of renowned architects. In total, five regional and three special prizes will be awarded, and finalists will have the opportunity to present their projects at a live event in Europe.
The organisers emphasise that the competition gives students the opportunity to work with the theme of solar and natural light as a key resource for creating healthy and comfortable buildings. The event is organised in cooperation with the International of Architects (UIA) and supported by leading educational institutions in Europe and the USA.
Key dates
- 30 March 2026 – registration deadline↗️
- 6 April 2026 – project submission deadline
- 27–28 April 2026 – jury meeting
- May 2026 – announcement of results
- 26 June – 2 July 2026 – winners’ workshop and award ceremony
See also: the Innovation Award will premiere at Fensterbau Frontale 2026.