Commercial New Construction & Substantial Renovation Large (CL)
Projects submitted in this category will include a broad range of types such as Commercial, Educational, Multifamily, Housing, Institutional, or Faith-based Architecture. Master Planning and Urban Design projects are also eligible for recognition under this category. Renovations and addition projects are eligible, but project scope must be clearly and accurately presented through graphics and written descriptions. Projects eligible for New Construction – Large are those projects that are over 10,000 SF. Projects eligible for an Adaptive Reuse/Historic Preservation Award are not eligible for this category.
Commercial New Construction & Substantial Renovation Small (CS)
Projects submitted in this category will include a broad range of types such as Commercial, Educational, Multifamily, Housing, Institutional, or Faith-based Architecture. Master Planning and Urban Design projects are also eligible for recognition under this category. Renovations and addition projects are eligible, but project scope must be clearly and accurately presented through graphics and written descriptions. Projects eligible for New Construction – Small are those projects that are under 10,000 SF. Projects eligible for an Adaptive Reuse/Historic Preservation Award are not eligible for this category.
Residential New Construction & Substantial Renovation
Projects submitted in this category will include single family residential projects or multi-family projects of no more than (4) units. Larger multi-family projects will be categorized under New Construction or Adaptive Reuse. Renovation and addition projects are eligible, but project scope must be clearly and accurately presented through graphics and written descriptions.
Preservation & Adaptive Reuse
Projects submitted in this category may be of any project type (Commercial, Educational, Residential, etc.) but should include either a renovation within an existing building or a new construction that expands an existing structure or site. Projects that have been recognized for historical value through inclusion in Historic Districts or listing on Historic Registers should identify the type and reason for recognition in the written project description. Projects that do not have official recognition or designation are also eligible and should outline the historical significance in the project description. The intent of this award is to recognize thoughtful interventions or restorations that create a synergy between old and new construction. Routine maintenance, such as painting or reroofing, is not considered restoration work for the purposes of this award. Projects eligible for a New Construction award are not eligible for this category.
Interior Architecture
Projects submitted in this category should illustrate outstanding building interiors created by architects. These projects may include new construction or renovations of existing construction. Multiple entries may be submitted, but individual rooms or spaces within the same project shall be considered as one project.
Service Award
AIA Charleston’s Board of Directors is seeking nominations for 2025 Service Awards. Shared dedication and distinguished achievement earn this award, intended to recognize those working collaboratively to promote the value of good design, improve the built environment, and serve the greater community in and around Charleston. Any individual or group of AIA Charleston members in good standing may submit a nomination for an individual, group, or organization from any profession for Community Service, Philanthropy, or similar activities deemed worthy of recognition. Candidates must be living or operational at time of nomination. Nominations will be reviewed by AIA Charleston Board of Directors and recipients will be recognized during the 2025 Design and Service Awards Celebration.