Exceptional Design Awards Submissions Now Accepted Through July 10

Published on
06/08/2026
Exceptional Design Award house

 

Fairfax County is now accepting submissions for the James M. Scott Exceptional Design Awards. Established in 1984, the awards program celebrates outstanding planning and design features that enhance the experience of site users and visitors. The program aims to raise awareness of both public and private projects.

 

Design Criteria

Design submissions 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.

 

Eligibility Requirements

Projects completed in Fairfax County within the last five years, since Jan. 1, 2021, are eligible for submission. Submissions must be received by email or mail by 5 p.m. on Friday, July 10. More information about submission categories, requirements and the entry form are available on the awards webpage.

 

Categories and More Information

Awards are granted in three categories: honor, merit and honorable mention. A jury of design professionals, including architects, will select the winners and announce them in September.

The James M. Scott Exceptional Design Awards program is sponsored by the Board of Supervisors and administered by our Department of Planning and Development, in cooperation with the county’s Architectural Review Board and the Northern Virginia Chapter of the American Institute of Architects.

For more information, questions or assistance, contact the Department of Planning and Development at 703-324-1380, TTY 711.
 

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