The NPO Aoyama Design Forum (ADF), a non-profit organization, has introduced the ADF Design Award 2026, an honor that recognizes architectural works striving for more than visual appeal—they seek to make a meaningful difference in society, culture, and the environment. The award is dedicated to celebrating projects that break from convention, showcase innovative thinking, and enhance lives through visionary and responsible design. Architects and designers from around the globe are encouraged to submit their proposals through a dedicated platform that cultivates connections, encourages the sharing of ideas, and fosters cross-cultural collaboration.
The architectural field is rich with international competitions, events, and awards, each taking place under diverse circumstances and in various contexts. These initiatives spotlight the contributions of professionals, collectives, institutions, and organizations committed to addressing today’s most pressing social, environmental, and economic issues. By seeking out architectural strategies that improve the quality of life for millions, these awards recognize those dedicated to advancing our built environment. The award ceremonies serve as milestones, honoring the dedication and perseverance of professionals from all backgrounds who are devoted to shaping a better future through architecture.
The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Center of Las Chumberas / Fernando Menis. Image © Hisao Suzuki
THE ADF DESIGN AWARD GOES BEYOND RECOGNITION. IT INSPIRES BOTH PROFESSIONALS AND EMERGING ARCHITECTS TO REFLECT MORE DEEPLY ON THE SPACES THAT SHAPE OUR LIVES, WHILE HELPING SOCIETY BECOME MORE CONSCIOUS AND SELECTIVE ABOUT THE ENVIRONMENTS WE BUILD. THIS CONTRIBUTION IS ESSENTIAL TO THE FUTURE OF OUR CITIES. — FERNANDO MENIS, EXCELLENCE AWARD WINNER
By highlighting the creative process and the concepts driving each design, the awards call for submissions that defy traditional norms and provide innovative, environmentally responsible solutions that benefit communities. Categories for entry include Hospitality Architecture, Commercial and Office Architecture, Housing Complex, Education and Sports Facilities, Cultural Buildings, and Public Architecture. The jury reviews each entry for artistic qualities such as form, color, detail, and material choice; the project’s responsiveness to social change; use of novel materials and construction methods; inventive design under challenging conditions; sustainability and positive impacts for users and the environment; as well as the project’s ability to harmonize with its region while representing a contemporary cultural identity.
Maatulli School and Kindergarten in Finland / Fors Arkitekter. Image Courtesy of Garde
Past recipients exemplify the award’s values. In 2025, Boris Bežan (BAX Studio), Mara Partida and Héctor Mendoza (Mendoza Partida Studio), and Maria Mestres and Magnus Wåge (Mestres Wåge Architects) were recognized with the Grand Prize. The Excellence Award went to Sofia Fors (Fors Arkitekter) and Fernando Menis. Based in Copenhagen, Fors Arkitekter is renowned for projects that thoughtfully integrate buildings and landscapes while honoring planetary boundaries, such as the Maatulli School and Kindergarten in Finland. Their portfolio covers a spectrum from private homes to large public buildings, always emphasizing architecture that delivers lasting, positive change for people and the natural environment.
The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Center of Las Chumberas / Fernando Menis. Image © Roland Halbe
Fernando Menis, with over forty years of experience, is especially known for pioneering the variable acoustics system in Poland’s CKK Jordanki. His impressive portfolio includes the Church of the Holy Redeemer, El Tanque Art Center, Magma Art & Congress, the Spree Floating Pool in Berlin, and the headquarters of the Canary Islands Government in Tenerife. The Holy Redeemer Church and Community Center of Las Chumberas unites a church, community
