Architecture at Zero 2026
AIA California & California Public Utilities Commission
📌 About the Event
Architecture at Zero is an international design competition for zero net energy (ZNE) buildings. The 2026 challenge is to design “La Plaza”a 10,000 sq ft Educational and Cultural Venue that transforms into a Resiliency Asset (Emergency Operations Center) during regional disasters. Entries must demonstrate how the building achieves lower carbon emissions while serving as a community hub. It is one of the most prestigious contests for students looking to specialize in sustainable and “equitable” urban design.
ℹ Event Details
- Category: Architecture / Sustainability / Urban Planning
- Organizer: AIA California & California Public Utilities Commission
- Eligibility: Students and Professional Architects
- Team Size: Individual or Team
- Effort Level: Very High
- Submission Type: Site Plan, Building Sections, and Energy Performance Documentation
📅 Important Dates
- Submission Deadline: June 1, 2026 (1:00 PM PST)
- Winners Announced: Late 2026 (Online Event)
- Mode: Online
🏆 Prize Details and Value
- Prize Type: Cash (Professionals) and Conference Access (Students)
- Value: Up to $25,000 in total cash prizes.
- Certificates: Architecture at Zero Design Award.
- Additional Perks (Students): Free admission to the AIA Conference on Architecture 2026 in San Diego.
🎯 What You Will Do
- Create a site plan integrating renewable energy and storage.
- Write an equity essay explaining how the design serves marginalized communities.
- Calculate energy efficiency metrics following California Title 24 standards.
📦 Resources and Support Available
- Technical Review: A panel provides a technical evaluation of decarbonization strategies.
- Design Brief: Comprehensive PDF guide including site maps and climate data.
🔗 Apply Here: https://www.architectureatzero.com/