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September 15, 2025
The Royal Architectural Institute of Canada (RAIC) and the Canada Council for the Arts have officially launched the 2026 Governor General’s Medals in Architecture call for submissions. This prestigious national awards program celebrates excellence in recently completed architectural projects by Canadian architects, both within Canada and abroad.
For over 75 years, the Governor General’s Medals in Architecture have recognized exceptional design, promoting awareness of the role architecture plays in shaping Canadian identity and culture. Up to 12 medals will be awarded in 2026, showcasing projects that push the boundaries of architectural innovation, functionality, and sustainability.
The medals program offers a panoramic view of Canada’s architectural accomplishments, from coast to coast. It welcomes submissions across a wide range of typologies, including cultural institutions, healthcare facilities, infrastructure, residential, commercial, and innovative urban design projects. The initiative serves as a career-defining platform for architects, drawing attention to the impact of their work on communities and public spaces.
As environmental stewardship becomes a priority in design, the 2026 competition will continue its requirement for projects to include Energy Use Intensity (EUI) and Thermal Energy Demand Intensity (TEDI) metrics. Introduced in 2024, this rule ensures that entries demonstrate measurable progress toward energy-efficient and climate-conscious architecture—aligning with Canada’s broader climate action goals.
The awards are also a reflection of Canada’s diverse regional identities, showcasing how design responds to cultural, climatic, and historical contexts. Winning projects often redefine how people live, gather, and interact, capturing the essence of Canadian community life in both urban and rural settings.
Local media and stakeholders are encouraged to follow potential submissions from their areas, spotlight past recipients, and explore how regional architecture contributes to the local economy and cultural heritage.
This is a significant opportunity for architects to gain national recognition and contribute to a legacy of design excellence that defines Canada’s built environment.
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