The Copper Development Association (CDA) is accepting submissions for its 2025 North American Copper in Architecture Awards (NACIA).
Introduced by CDA in 2008, the awards celebrate copper design and craftsmanship in commercial and residential projects across the United States and Canada. The honored projects typically feature architectural copper and copper alloys used in roof systems, façades, and wall systems, as well as in custom-fabricated elements.
Projects representing all building types are eligible, with award categories including restoration/renovation, new construction, and custom fabrication. Submitted projects must:
- Feature architectural elements of copper, brass, or bronze
- Be located in the United States or Canada
- Have been completed within the last three years
Among the winning projects in 2024 were the Embassy of Australia in Washington D.C., New York State Capitol Central Courtyard, Michigan Central Station in Detroit, and CopperDrifts, a 650 m2 (7,000 sf) residence in Provincetown, Mass.
Entries include short descriptions of projects and high-resolution photos of finished buildings. Questions include:
- Why was copper chosen for this particular project?
- If this project qualifies for green certification, how did copper play a role in helping the building achieve that designation?
Projects are judged by a panel of copper industry experts using the following criteria:
- Copper system design
- Integration of copper alloys with overall building design
- Craftsmanship of the installation
- Excellence in construction innovation or restoration
- Sustainable building strategies
Ten winning projects will be honored with commemorative awards. Projects and their project teams receive exposure through media coverage and recognition in CDA’s educational and industry outreach programs.
“The North American Copper in Architecture Awards recognize and promote building projects for their outstanding use of architectural copper and copper alloys,” says Larry Peters, project manager of building construction at CDA and an architectural specialist.
“The durability, versatility, and, in our winning projects, the sheer beauty of copper continue to make it a leading material for exterior and interior building applications,” Peters says. “We invite architects, designers, and contractors to enter the 2025 competition and showcase their most innovative copper work.”
