Architecture in the best light
How can daylight transform architecture?
What kind of spaces emerge when natural light is deliberately planned and utilised?
Submissions are now open for the VELUX Architectural Competition 2026/27. Organised in cooperation with DETAIL and RIBAJ, the competition celebrates outstanding projects that demonstrate how daylight can enhance architecture, spatial quality and well-being.
Whether your project is a new build, renovation or restoration, we invite you to share work that places daylight at the centre of the architectural concept
Two competition categories:
Light.Space.Human.
Recognising residential and architectural projects that demonstrate excellence in daylight design.
Commercial and Public Buildings
Supported by VELUX Commercial, celebrating projects that make exceptional use of daylight to enhance user experience, wellbeing and building performance.
Criteria
What the jury will be looking for
- Atmosphere and mood
- Targeted positioning of light sources
- Optimal lighting conditions
- Dynamism and changeability of daylight
Prizes
In each category, one winner will receive £5,000 and two commended entries will receive £1,500 each.
More information about the competition: