2026 Illimuninate Design Awards: Radiant Horizons

Rules

Awards Program Dates

Awards Program Open
From: February 16, 2026 12:00AM ESTTo: March 30, 2026 11:59PM EDT
Rules

PROJECT ENTRY RULES & REQUIREMENTS

To ensure a fair, anonymous, and efficient judging process, all entrants must follow the requirements below. Entries that do not comply may be disqualified without refund.


Project Information

Project Category  

Enter the project in the single category that best represents its primary function.

Project Name & Location  

Use the official project name. List City and State only. Do not include firm names, client names, or identifying information.

Project Completion Date

Projects must be substantially complete after January 1, 2023. Substantial completion is defined as the date the space was ready for occupancy or use.

Construction Type

Select one:

  • New Construction — Ground-up project

  • Renovation — Improvements to a structure

  • Tenant Up-Fit — Interior build-out within a leased shell

Square Footage

Enter total interior square footage of the designed areas only. This is used for category classification and does not affect judging.


Project Narratives

Narratives should be written for readers unfamiliar with the project. Maintain anonymity — do not include firm names, team members, or client identifiers.

Project Statement (50 words max)

Provide a brief overview of the project’s purpose, users, and overall design intent. Think of this as the project’s elevator pitch.

Challenge Statement (250 words max)

Describe the key challenges that shaped the project, such as site conditions, budget or schedule constraints, and programmatic or user requirements.

Solution Statement (250 words max)

Explain how the design addressed those challenges, including planning strategies, material and spatial decisions, and relevant sustainability, wellness, branding, or DEI considerations.


IMAGE & FILE REQUIREMENTS

Images must be high-resolution color files in JPG or PDF format, with a maximum file size of 10MB each. Images should be a minimum of 2400 pixels on the longest edge and submitted in RGB color space.

Each entry must include 5–7 images. One exterior image is permitted. Images must be named in order of importance (IMG-01, IMG-02, etc.).

Text overlays, borders, composite layouts, watermarks, and identifying signage are not permitted. Files that do not follow naming or formatting requirements may be rejected by the submission system.

Floor plans must be submitted in JPG or PDF format (1–3 files), named sequentially (FP-01, FP-02, etc.), with all identifying title blocks removed.


Additional Information

The following materials are collected for award recognition, event materials and promotion only (not visible to the jury).

Design Team List

Provide a complete list of contributors. List the team by level of contribution. Include only individuals who contributed directly to the design work.

Required Information:

  • Full Name, Professional Title / Role, Firm Name

Photographer Credits 

Entrants must provide complete photographer credit information for all submitted images. Entrants confirm all usage rights and permissions are secured. Photographer details must not appear in image files or filenames.

Required Information:

  • Photographer Name & Company Name
  • Preferred Credit Line

5. Terms & Conditions

By submitting an entry, entrants agree that:

  • All information provided is accurate and compliant
  • Judged materials contain no identifying firm information
  • Submissions may be used for event and promotional purposes
  • Photography rights are secured prior to entry
  • Projects are submitted by the responsible design firm

Entries that fail to meet requirements may be disqualified.