Frequently Asked Questions

Q1: Are the awards open to projects with different budget sizes? 

Absolutely! Our awards are open to projects of all budget sizes. We believe that exceptional design and execution can be achieved regardless of the budget. Our judging criteria focuses on meeting the brief and the project's overall creativity, innovation, and design excellence.

Q2: Can I submit both commercial and residential projects for consideration?

Yes, you can submit both commercial and residential projects. We welcome entries from a wide range of project types and sectors. Whether it's a commercial development, a residential renovation, or anything in between, we are interested in celebrating outstanding achievements in design and execution. In past awards we have seen small residential projects win against larger commercial projects and vice versa.

Q3: How much does it cost to enter the awards?

The entry fee varies depending on your membership status and whether you take advantage of the early bird rate. For non-members, the standard entry fee is £300 per project. However, if you are a member and submit your entry during the early bird period, you can enjoy a discounted rate of £125 per project. 

Q4: When is the early bird submission period, and how can I become a member?

The early bird submission period starts on 4th January and ends on 13th March. To become a member and take advantage of the reduced entry fee, find out more about BIID membership. To save time you can apply for Provisional Associate membership and upgrade at a later date.

Q5: Are there any additional costs associated with entering the awards?

No, there are no hidden fees or additional costs beyond the entry fee. The entry fee covers the cost of submitting your project for consideration by our expert panels. Attendance to the Awards Ceremony will be the only additional cost if shortlisted.

Q6: How are the awards judged?

The awards are judged based on the merit of each project, considering how well it meets the project brief and demonstrates outstanding creativity, innovation, and design excellence. We do not take the size of the budget or square meterage into account when evaluating entries.

Q7: What is the judging process?

The judging process will take place in three phases:  

• Shortlisting: All entered projects will be reviewed and shortlisted by our Shortlisting Panel.
• In person visits: All shortlisted projects will be visited in person by a Site Assessor
• Final judging: The final judging will take place where the winners of each category will be determined.

Q8: Is there a limit to the number of projects I can submit?

No, there is no limit to the number of projects you can submit. You are welcome to enter as many projects as you wish, provided that each entry meets our submission requirements and has its own separate entry fee.

Q9: How do I know the category I should enter?

The category is determined by the postcode of the project. If you are not sure which region the property is, use our helpful category finder. 

Q10: Can I enter a project that has won awards elsewhere or been published in the press?

Yes, you can enter a project that has won awards elsewhere or been published as a press story. We appreciate and celebrate excellence, regardless of prior recognition. Please ensure that your entry meets our submission guidelines and eligibility criteria.

Q11: How and where do I submit my project for consideration?

To submit your project, follow the instructions our Entering the Awards page. You will find detailed information on how to complete the submission process.

Q12: When will the award winners be announced?

The award winners will be announced during our annual awards ceremony, which is on 17th October 2024.

Q13: Can I enter an international project?

Unfortunately not. At present we cannot accomodate international site visits and they are crucial to the awards. These visits guarantee that the project is a genuine representation of the photos or entry. They capture an in-person essence that photos alone can't convey, which is vital for upholding the integrity and quality of the awards. 

If you have any further questions or need assistance with your entry, please don't hesitate to contact our awards team at awards@biid.org.uk. We look forward to celebrating your exceptional projects!