On the occasion of the ACE x ARCH-E Conference on Architectural Design Competitions held in Brussels, the Architects’ Council of Europe (ACE) and the International Union of Architects (UIA) issued a joint statement reaffirming the critical role of architectural design competitions (ADCs) in shaping a high-quality built environment.
Architectural design competitions are widely recognised as an effective and transparent procurement method, grounded in clear procedures, independent professional evaluation, and equal treatment of participants. Their primary objective is to identify the most suitable and innovative design solutions for a given project.
“Architectural design competitions are not simply a procurement tool; they are a cornerstone of architectural culture and a guarantee of quality in the built environment. By upholding fair, transparent and accessible processes, we enable architects to respond creatively and responsibly to society’s needs, delivering solutions that are both innovative and durable.” stated Daniel Fügenschuh, ACE President.
“Design competitions are the best tool to promote innovation and quality in the built environment. Member States should prioritise ADCs in public procurement and ensure fair conditions for both organisers and participants,” stated Regina Gonthier, President of the UIA.
In their joint declaration, ACE and the UIA emphasise that ADCs not only deliver architectural excellence but also generate measurable economic and societal benefits. Recent studies show that projects developed through competitions are often more cost-effective and completed within shorter timeframes compared to other procurement methods.
ACE and the UIA highlight that well-structured competition processes—supported by clear briefs, feasibility assessments, and participatory approaches—lead to greater public acceptance and improved project outcomes. Engaging stakeholders, including citizens, enhances transparency and fosters trust, ensuring that projects better reflect user needs and community interests.
Importantly, ADCs are not limited to large-scale or iconic developments. ACE and UIA underline their suitability for smaller projects, which collectively have a significant impact on everyday environments and public budgets.
The statement also positions competitions as key drivers of innovation. By ensuring accessibility for architects of all backgrounds, including emerging talent, ADCs promote diversity, creativity, and competitiveness within the profession.
To maximise their effectiveness, ACE and UIA call for:
- Fair and transparent competition procedures
- Balanced and realistic project requirements
- Flexibility in design briefs to encourage creative solutions
- Reasonable time and cost commitments for participants
ACE and UIA jointly urge public authorities and private clients across Europe and beyond to strengthen the use of architectural design competitions and to actively promote a strong competition culture.
Download the ACE and UIA Joint Declaration on Architectural Design Competitions.
About ACE
The Architects’ Council of Europe represents the architectural profession at European level, advocating for quality architecture and sustainable development.
About the UIA
The International Union of Architects (UIA) is an international non-governmental organisation based in Paris. Established in 1948, it is the only organisation representing architects worldwide. The UIA works to unite architects, influence public policies on construction and development, and advance architecture in service to the needs of society.
