Welcome to the ASPIRE

2026 Design Awards

ASPIRE has a long-standing tradition of recognizing a broad range of architecture activity that exemplifies the values of the this Conference and improves the quality of the built environment in the communities we serve. The Aspire Design Awards program seeks to highlight the diverse range of projects by architects within the states. With the belief that awards programs should be carefully structured so that the selection and recognition of honorees elevates the general quality of the practice, establishes a standard of excellence against which all in the profession can measure performance, and informs the public of the importance of design.

About Aspire: This unconventional architecture conference influences artists, architects, designers, engineers, and landscape architects to design the future.

Aspire debuted in 2019, transforming the beautiful and vibrant city of Asheville, North Carolina, into a nexus of architecture, design, and community engagement. Learn more by visiting aspirexp.com.

DESIGN AWARDS SCHEDULE
May 18, 2026               Registration opens at https://aiaaspire.secure-platform.com/site
June 19, 2026              Early bird discount registration ends.
July 17, 2026                Submissions must be uploaded no later than 11:59PM EDT

DESIGN AWARDS FEES 

$295 per submission until June 19 ($350 after June 19)

STUDENT DESIGN AWARDS FEES   

$35 per submission until July 19

REFUND POLICY    
No refunds will be issued for Design Awards or Student Design Awards registration fees. 

READY TO GET STARTED?
Click on the ABOUT, INSTRUCTIONS, and CATEGORIES & FEES tabs in the menu above. 

QUESTIONS
Contact Robert Harrahill, AIA SC Executive Director, at robert@aiasc.org