Since 1985, the Fairfax County Exceptional Design Awards have recognized achievement in the total design of a building and its site. The awards also aim to raise awareness of outstanding planning and design projects among design professionals and the general public. 

Calendar of Important Dates

Nomination submissions begin - Monday, May 7, 2012
Nomination submission period closes - 5:00 p.m. Friday, June 8, 2012
Exceptional Design Awards Jury Event - July 11, 2012
Board Presentation for the winners: To be announced

Eligibility

Any project completed in Fairfax County in the past six years is eligible for nomination by anyone. Nominations can be submitted in many categories including, but not limited to residential, commercial, industrial, institutional and historical.

View detailed submission requirements.

Selection Process and Criteria

The awards, judged by a jury, include honor awards, merit awards and honorable mentions.  All entries should meet some or all of the following criteria:

• Exemplifies a superior work of architecture.
• Incorporates outstanding site design and landscaping.
• Takes into account the context of the project design in relationship to its surroundings.
• Applies energy and water conservation, and other green building practices.
  

Submission

Submit your project according to the submission requirements. If you require assistance with your submission, please contact staff 703-324-1364. Submissions will be accepted during the nomination period as noted above.

More Information

Fairfax County Department of Planning and Zoning
Planning Division
12055 Government Center Parkway
Suite 730
Fairfax, VA 22035
703-324-1364, TTY 711