Architectural achievements throughout Hackney are set to be recognised once more as the biennial Hackney Design Awards make their return.
Nominations will commence on September 1 for the 2026 iteration of the programme, which highlights outstanding design in recently completed buildings and outdoor areas.
Projects must have reached completion between September 2024 and August 2026 to qualify.
The scheme welcomes entries across several categories, including newly constructed buildings, building upgrades, heritage restorations, property extensions, communal spaces, and environmental landscaping work.
An independent panel of industry professionals will compile a shortlist, with on-site assessments due to take place during October.
Local residents can also contribute to the selection process through the People’s Choice Award, a category first introduced in 2010 that enables community members to vote for their preferred nominated scheme.
The overall winners will be revealed at a formal event held at Hackney Town Hall in December.
Councillor Alastair Binnie-Lubbock, who serves as cabinet member for regeneration, planning and inclusive neighbourhoods, expressed that the awards represent an excellent occasion to acknowledge the high standard and range of architectural design present throughout the borough.
He noted that Hackney contains numerous impressive buildings and public areas, spanning from private residences to compact parks and from modest developments to substantial projects, which collectively contribute to making the area an appealing and dynamic location for residents, workers, and visitors alike.
The awards have operated continuously since 2004 and have accumulated more than 400 submissions over that period, with over 100 projects having been crowned winners during the same timeframe.