Call for Entries Announced for 19th Annual Copper Architecture Awards

The Copper Development Association is accepting submissions for the 2026 North American Copper in Architecture Awards.

Published on Feb. 22, 2026

The Copper Development Association (CDA), a U.S.-based, not-for-profit association of the global copper industry, is now accepting submissions from architects, designers, contractors, and other construction industry professionals for the 2026 North American Copper in Architecture Awards (NACIA). The awards celebrate copper design and craftsmanship in commercial and residential projects across the United States and Canada.

Why it matters

The NACIA Awards recognize and promote innovative uses of architectural copper and copper alloys in building projects. Copper is a popular material for exterior and interior applications due to its durability, versatility, and aesthetic qualities. The awards showcase how copper can contribute to sustainable building strategies and help projects achieve green certifications.

The details

Entrants should submit their architectural projects by March 27, 2026. Projects representing any building type are eligible, with award categories including restoration/renovation, new construction, and custom fabrication. Submitted projects must feature architectural elements of copper, brass, or bronze, be located in the U.S. or Canada, and have been completed within the last three years. A panel of experts will judge the entries based on criteria such as copper system design, integration with overall building design, craftsmanship of the installation, construction innovation or restoration, and sustainable building strategies.

  • The entry deadline for the 2026 NACIA Awards is March 27, 2026.

The players

Copper Development Association (CDA)

A U.S.-based, not-for-profit association of the global copper industry that organizes the North American Copper in Architecture Awards.

Larry Peters

Project Manager, Building Construction at the Copper Development Association.

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What they’re saying

“The North American Copper in Architecture Awards recognize and promote building projects for their outstanding use of architectural copper and copper alloys.”

— Larry Peters, Project Manager, Building Construction (CDA)

“The durability, versatility and — in our winning projects — the sheer beauty of copper continue to make it a leading material for exterior and interior building applications.”

— Larry Peters, Project Manager, Building Construction (CDA)

What’s next

The streamlined entry process is available at the CDA's website, and entries are free. The winners will be announced and honored with commemorative awards.

The takeaway

The NACIA Awards showcase how copper can be used innovatively in architectural design, contributing to sustainable building strategies and helping projects achieve green certifications. The awards recognize the durability, versatility, and aesthetic qualities that make copper a leading material for exterior and interior building applications.