FAQ

ELIGIBILITY

Do I have to be an NAHB member to apply? Both members and non-members can enter a project into the Best in Green awards. If you are entering the Young Professional or HBA of the Year categories, the nominee must be a NAHB member.

Can I enter a project that was previously entered in the awards? Yes, so long as the project a) was completed or first model opened between January 1, 2017, and August 1, 2019 and b) has not previously received a Best in Green Award in the same category.

Can I enter a project that has won other awards or been previously published? Yes, so long as it has not been awarded a Best in Green Award in the same category.

What if another company submitted the project for these awards last year? Can I enter it this year? Projects can only win once per category, regardless of the company who submits. You may submit the same project again if it did not win.

Can I enter the same house in more than one category? Yes. For example, you may submit the full home to a single-family production category and submit the kitchen to the interior project category. Call or email Jaclyn Toole if you are unsure which categories are best suited for your project: (202) 266-8225 or jtoole@nahb.org.

Do you accept entries from outside the United States? Yes. Entries from outside the U.S. are welcome to submit.

CATEGORIES

What should I do if I’m not sure which category best fits my entry? Call or email Jaclyn Toole if you are unsure which categories are best suited for your project: (202) 266-8225 or jtoole@nahb.org. If the judges feel your project belongs in another category, they will move it during judging. Your entry will not be penalized.

Can I change my entry to a different category after submitting? Yes, you may change your entry to a different category until the awards cycle is closed by contacting Jaclyn Toole at (202) 266-8225 or jtoole@nahb.org.

JUDGING

Are project entries anonymous? Yes. The judges are not provided any information on the identity of the project team. If a judge recognizes a project, the judge must recuse himself/herself from judging that category. Projects that include identifying information on photos and/or plans will be disqualified.

How are the winners selected? Judging is conducted by industry experts, including builders, architects, designers, and land planners, from across the country. Judges may select winners in any or all categories, and judges may award more than one of each award per category in the event of a tie. Awards may not be given in a category if the entries submitted do not meet the quality requirements.

Learn about judging criteria and top awards.

PHOTOS AND OTHER MEDIA

What type of photos are requested in the application? All entry forms ask for professional-quality color photos. Visit the Best in American Living blog for tips on architectural photography.

Do I need to include high-resolution images with my entry packet? Please only submit high-resolution images with your submission.

Can I or my photographer use photo-enhancing programs? All submitted images must accurately and truthfully reflect the design. Technical enhancements that improve the image are permitted provided that they do not alter the components of the design.

Can I include photo captions? Yes, brief captions detailing what is shown are recommended.

Is there a photo release form? You cannot complete the application without agreeing to the terms and conditions governing the uploaded content. Preview the release here.

I have a video of my project. Can I submit this? Yes. The 2019 application contains an optional video upload and link question.

Do I need to submit plans and drawings? Floor plans must be submitted for every category except Young Professional and HBA of the Year. Other plans and drawings, including site plans, schematic drawings, detail drawings, etc., may also be submitted. Homes entered in the Remodeling categories must include “before” floor plans and photos. Plans should be void of all company identifying information and easy to read.

SPONSORSHIPS

Can I sponsor the awards? Yes. Contact Don Berey 800-368-5242 x8208 or via email at dberey@nahb.org for more information.

ADDITIONAL QUESTIONS

What if the online process isn’t working? If you have difficulty with the online form or webpage, please contact Jaclyn Toole at (202) 266-8225 or jtoole@nahb.org.

What if I start my submission and cannot complete it? If you need to pause in the middle of the process, save your work and return to it later. Completed applications must be received on or before the awards cycle closes. Applications are not considered final until payment is received.

Can refunds be given once I’ve registered? We cannot accept refund requests.

Who do I contact if I have questions while submitting? Contact Jaclyn Toole at (202) 266-8225 or jtoole@nahb.org.

Can I mail my application? In an effort to be environmentally friendly, cost-effective and more efficient, we will only accept electronic entries.

What exposure do winners receive?

For more information about this item, please contact Michelle Diller at 800-368-5242 x8375 or via email at mdiller@nahb.org.