AAK Duracoat Awards of Excellence in Architecture 2024 Launched
The Architectural Association of Kenya (AAK) has officially announced the 2024 AAK Duracoat Awards of Excellence in Architecture, a prestigious event aimed at recognizing and celebrating outstanding achievements in the field of architecture. Slated to culminate in an awards dinner on February 29, 2024, the initiative seeks to highlight innovative projects and visionary architects whose work exemplifies creativity, sustainability, and contextual relevance.
The awards are designed to inspire a culture of architectural excellence by acknowledging projects that contribute to shaping Kenya’s architectural landscape. According to the organizers, the awards aim to set benchmarks for design standards, foster continuous improvement, and promote pride and accomplishment within the profession.
Eligible Submissions
Architectural projects completed in the last five years by members of the Architectural Association of Kenya, as well as architects affiliated with the Rwanda Institute of Architects, Uganda Society of Architects, and Architects Association of Tanzania, are eligible for submission. The competition is open to projects completed anywhere in the world.
Award Categories
The competition invites submissions in several categories:
- Best African (Re)presentation – Celebrating designs rooted in local heritage and traditions.
- Best Interior Environment – Recognizing innovative indoor designs that enhance ambience and functionality.
- Best Landscape Architecture – Highlighting exceptional outdoor spaces with thoughtful design.
- Best Empowerment & Social Equity Through Design – Focusing on projects that cater to marginalized groups and enhance accessibility.
- Best Commercial and Best Residential Projects – Showcasing excellence in commercial and residential architecture, respectively.
- Institutional Excellence – Honoring outstanding institutional buildings such as schools and hospitals.
- Best Student/Graduate Award – Encouraging young talent with conceptual projects by students or recent graduates.
Evaluation Criteria
Entries will be judged on five key areas:
- Design Innovation (45%)
- Contextual Appropriateness (20%)
- Sustainability (15%)
- Socio-Economic Impact (10%)
- Creative Use of Materials (10%)
Submission Process and Deadline
Participants must submit their entries by February 21, 2024, via an online portal. Submission fees are set at KES 5,000 per project, except for students, who can participate free of charge. Projects must include high-quality design drawings, conceptual descriptions, and 3D visualizations.
Exhibition and Consent
All submitted projects will be featured in a public exhibition at the ADD Building, University of Nairobi, or other locations designated by the planning team. Entrants are required to obtain necessary consents from project stakeholders before submission.
Jury Panel
The submissions will be evaluated by a distinguished jury comprising Fawaz Bisher (Kenya), Jacqueline Namayanja (EAIA President), and Sherif Morgan (Egypt).
This annual event, supported by DuraCoat, underscores the commitment of Kenyan architects to pushing the boundaries of innovation while addressing societal needs. The AAK invites architects across the region to participate and contribute to redefining excellence in architecture. Link here
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