Jacques Rougerie Foundation - Jacques Rougerie International Architecture Competition

Jacques Rougerie International Architecture and Innovation Competition

You will win a 7,000 EUR prize if your project is awarded one of the six Grand Prix (the highest honours). You will also receive support from the Foundation to further develop your project, as well as access to its network of experts. The Foundation awards a total of 42,000 euros annually, divided amongst the six Grand Prix prizes of 7,000 euros each. The prize is awarded by the Fondation Jacques Rougerie in Paris and organised annually in collaboration with UNESCO. You are invited to submit an architectural and innovation project on one of three themes: living with rising water (areas at risk of flooding), building in and under the sea, or habitats in space. Each theme comprises two categories: a long-term vision (Prospective) and an experimental, short-term idea (LAB).

Who can apply

• Who you are: The competition is open to students, professionals, researchers, designers, engineers, town planners, inventors and artists.
• Field of study: Any subject area, provided your project relates to one of the three topics.
• Nationality: Any nationality, worldwide.
• Age and background: No restrictions regarding age, gender or religion.
• Solo or team: You may register either individually or as a team, with a named project leader. Only one project is permitted per person or team.
• Cost: Entry is free.

How to apply

You register via the Foundation’s online platform and upload your project. Registration opens on 11 March 2026, and the deadline for submissions is 24 September 2026. A technical pre-selection panel will select the finalists in each category. A panel of experts will then choose the winners, who will be announced at the end of October and honoured in Paris in November.

How realistic are your chances?

This is a single, prestigious prize open to anyone worldwide; as a result, the field of entrants is large and the competition fierce. There are six Grand Prix awards across three thematic areas, which spreads the chances out somewhat, but each prize goes to the outstanding project in its category. The jury rewards a bold, feasible and well-presented idea that fits the theme; therefore, a clear vision and compelling visual elements are just as important as technical details.