Jeff Harnar Awards

Architecture Competition: Jeff Harnar Awards

In the dynamic realm of contemporary architecture, recognition of innovation and excellence serves as a beacon, guiding the industry towards new horizons of design. At the forefront of this celebration stands the Jeff Harnar Awards, an esteemed program established in 2007 by Garrett Thornburg in tribute to the pioneering architect, Jeff Harnar. Now, as the 2024 awards cycle unfolds, architects, designers, and visionaries are invited to showcase their most exceptional contributions to the built environment.

Honoring Architectural Brilliance

The Jeff Harnar Awards program is a testament to the enduring legacy of Jeff Harnar, renowned for his groundbreaking work in contemporary architecture in New Mexico. With the support of the Thornburg Foundation, which has steadfastly championed this initiative for the past 17 years, the awards recognize outstanding achievements across six distinct categories. From contemporary architecture in the Southwest to student-led innovations, each category represents a unique facet of architectural excellence.

Categories and Prizes:

1. Contemporary Architecture in the Southwest ($10,000 Prize)
2. Unbuilt Architecture ($3,000 Prize)
3. Unbuilt Landscape Architecture ($3,000 Prize)
4. Social Justice in Architecture ($3,000 Prize – Jury’s selection from all submissions)
5. Student Architecture (First Place $2,000 & Second Place $1,000)
6. Student Landscape Architecture (First Place $2,000 & Second Place $1,000)

A Prestigious Jury Panel

The adjudication process is overseen by the University of New Mexico’s School of Architecture + Planning, which meticulously curates the submissions and selects a panel of esteemed jurors. This year, the jury comprises luminaries in the field, including Jeff Day, Gabriel Diaz Montemayor, and Ben Gilmartin. Moreover, Claudia Meyer Horn, Erin Moore, and Anya Sirota. Their discerning eye and collective expertise ensure that only the most exceptional projects receive recognition.

Celebration of Excellence

The culmination of the Jeff Harnar Awards is a grand celebration of architectural ingenuity and creativity. On Friday, April 12, 2024, the architecture community will gather at the School of Architecture + Planning’s Garcia Honda Auditorium for the award presentation and celebration. Winners will also be announced, and their contributions to the field will be lauded. Moreover, the event will feature a digital exhibition showcasing the Best of Show submissions. Thus, offering attendees a glimpse into the future of architecture.

A Call to Innovators

As the deadline for submissions approaches, architects, designers, and students are encouraged to seize this opportunity to showcase their visionary projects and make their mark on the architectural landscape. Whether it’s pushing the boundaries of contemporary design or advocating for social justice through architecture. The Jeff Harnar Awards provide a platform for creativity and exploration.

Furthermore, In the spirit of Jeff Harnar’s pioneering spirit and commitment to architectural excellence, let us come together to celebrate the transformative power of architecture and design.

Finally, find out more on ArchUp: