Setting the standard for design excellence
AIA is defining what excellent design means in the 21st century through the AIA Framework for Design Excellence, nearly 30 prestigious awards, and innovations that are transforming how we design for climate, people, and communities.
Design excellence is sustainable, resilient, & inclusive design
The world is changing in ways that continuously challenge our health, safety, and wellbeing. Every project can be a big step forward in addressing these complex issues. How AIA defines and celebrates design excellence sets the standard for how the architecture profession works together to design a better world. Explore how you can design a better world with AIA.
AIA is grateful to the following companies for support: James Hardie and Sierra Pacific Windows.
AIA Framework for Design Excellence
The framework represents the defining characteristics of design excellence and challenges architects and designers with a vision of what the profession strives to achieve. Ten principles accompanied by searching questions provide guidance.
Climate action
How our industry designs and builds—and influences others to do so—is key to reducing carbon emissions. Take on climate change with AIA and help transform the practice of architecture to achieve a zero-carbon, equitable, resilient, and healthy built environment.
Equity, diversity, & inclusion
AIA is building a culture of equity, diversity, and inclusion within our profession, firms, and chapters. Explore guides, resources, and education to help you make the business, professional, and ethical cases for equity in architecture and practice.
Learn more about AIA’s equity, diversity, & inclusion efforts
Awards
AIA Awards celebrate the best buildings, spaces, and the people behind them, with some of the most prestigious distinctions in the architecture industry. Find out how to submit your work.
Award winners
An AIA award is the ultimate acknowledgment of impactful, exemplary work in architecture and design. Find inspiration in award-winning work across nearly 30 categories.