Call for Entries: 2026 North American Copper Awards
The Copper Development Association (CDA) is inviting submissions from innovative architects, skilled designers, and industry professionals for the 2026 North American Copper in Architecture Awards. This esteemed competition, which recognizes exceptional use of copper in building design, is an opportunity for professionals to showcase their work in both commercial and residential projects.
Honoring Architectural Excellence
Since its inception in 2008, the Copper in Architecture Awards have served to highlight the beauty and versatility of copper and its alloys across various architectural applications. The awarded projects typically incorporate architectural copper in roof systems, façades, and wall systems. Each entry offers a glimpse into the creativity and craftsmanship that can be achieved with this remarkable material.
Submission Guidelines
Participants interested in entering this prestigious competition should submit their entries by March 27, 2026. Eligible projects can span different building types and will compete in several award categories, including restoration/renovation, new construction, and custom fabrication.
To qualify for submission, projects must:
- Feature architectural elements made of copper, brass, or bronze;
- Be located within North America;
- Have been completed within the previous three years.
Recent Award Winners
In 2025, awarded projects encompassed a range of stunning designs, including the Magic Chef Mansion, a noteworthy restoration project located in St. Louis, and the New England Biolabs Garden Site Facility in Massachusetts. Both these projects exemplify the innovative use of copper in contemporary architecture.
Other notable winners were the Hillsdale County Courthouse and the Portsmouth Abbey School Student Center, both showcasing the impressive qualities of copper as a fundamental design element.
How to Participate
The process to enter is concise. Interested parties can find entry forms and detailed guidelines by visiting the CDA’s official site. Notably, there is no entry fee, allowing all qualified projects to be submitted without financial burden.
Participants are encouraged to include a brief description of their project along with high-resolution images that capture the completed structure. Additionally, they should share insights on why copper was selected as a primary material and whether the project meets any green certification standards.
Judging Criteria
The evaluation of submissions will be conducted by a panel of experts who will consider several criteria. These include:
- Innovative copper system design;
- Integration of copper alloys into the overall building concept;
- Craftsmanship and quality of installation;
- Innovations in construction or restoration;
- Sustainable practices and strategies employed.
Acknowledgments and Recognition
Winners will receive a commemorative award along with extensive exposure, as projects will be featured in prominent architectural and construction publications. This visibility is not only beneficial for the individuals involved but also highlights the impactful use of copper in modern construction.
According to Larry Peters, Project Manager at CDA, "The North American Copper in Architecture Awards celebrate and promote exceptional building projects that showcase the outstanding capabilities of architectural copper and its alloys. The durability and aesthetic appeal of copper make it an ideal material for a variety of construction applications. We encourage all architects, designers, and contractors to enter this year’s competition and demonstrate their innovative use of copper."
For more information about the Copper in Architecture Awards, visit the CDA’s official site where you can find more details about these awards and explore past winners’ projects.
About the Copper Development Association
The Copper Development Association Inc. (CDA) is a dedicated, not-for-profit organization representing the copper industry in North America. It works diligently to promote the effective use of copper materials in various applications that prioritize sustainability and efficiency across industries, businesses, and homes.
Frequently Asked Questions
What are the North American Copper in Architecture Awards?
The awards recognize outstanding architectural projects that effectively use copper and its alloys in design and construction.
Who can enter the competition?
Architects, designers, contractors, and other construction professionals are eligible to submit their projects.
When is the deadline for submission?
The deadline to submit entries is March 27, 2026.
Are there any fees for entering?
No, there are no fees required for submitting a project for the awards.
What criteria are used for judging the projects?
Judging is based on design innovation, quality of craftsmanship, integration with overall building design, sustainable practices, and originality in construction or restoration.
