SHERIDAN, WYOMING – Feb. 24, 2025 – The Ministry for Regional Identity, Communities, Construction, and Digitalization of North Rhine-Westphalia has announced the tenth edition of the "Exemplary Buildings in North Rhine-Westphalia" award. This prestigious recognition, presented every five years, is a joint effort between the Ministry and the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Architects to honor outstanding architectural achievements within the state.
Celebrating a Decade of Architectural Excellence
The "Exemplary Buildings in North Rhine-Westphalia" award is celebrating its tenth anniversary. The award has become the gold standard. The award also demonstrates one thing above all: building is more than just stacking stones - building is culture. Buildings are part of the regional identity and shape our environment.
Members of the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Architects, who have collaborated with building owners to realize exemplary projects in North Rhine-Westphalia, are invited to apply for this renowned award.
Minister Ina Scharrenbach, Minister for Regional Identity, Communities, Construction, and Digitalization of the State of North Rhine-Westphalia, emphasized the significance of the award: "The award for exemplary buildings is celebrating its anniversary. This year marks the tenth time the prize, which has developed into a coveted seal, will be awarded. Above all, the prize also shows one thing: building is more than just stacking stones – building is culture. Buildings are part of our homeland and shape our environment. By regularly recognizing the most successful projects, we make them visible in and beyond North Rhine-Westphalia. In this way, they can develop their exemplary effect and set quality standards. I hope for many applications because North Rhine-Westphalia has many great buildings to offer."
Eligibility and Scope of the Award
To be eligible for the competition, submitted projects must be located in North Rhine-Westphalia and have been completed within the past five years. The award encompasses a broad range of architectural endeavors, reflecting the diverse nature of the built environment.
Categories and types
Exemplary planning and construction include urban and neighborhood development measures, green and blue infrastructure, buildings, and interiors alike. Construction projects can include new buildings, conversions, extensions, modernizations, and the repurposing of existing built spatial structures.
A Joint Initiative for Building Culture
The Ministry and the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Architects view the award as a vital contribution to the building culture in the state. Since 1980, the "Exemplary Buildings in North Rhine-Westphalia" award has achieved broad public appeal, promoting high-quality design in our living spaces.
"The award-winning buildings are a reflection of the current planning culture and many social challenges," explains Ernst Uhing, President of the North Rhine-Westphalia Chamber of Architects. He further notes that contemporary designs are guided by the principles of sustainable development and a culture of building renovation and adaptation.
Application Process and Recognition
Building owners and members of an architectural chamber, acting as designers, can jointly apply for the award. An independent jury will select the winners. The award will be publicly announced and presented with a certificate and a building plaque.
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