Renovation ($200,001 - $400,000)

Housing Design Awards 2026 | GOHBA Housing Design Awards

Requirements

Projects entered in this category must be located within 150 km of Parliament Hill on the Ontario side. Any project outside this radius, or not located in Ontario (for example, Gatineau), must be submitted under the Anywhere in the World category.

For the purpose of this award, renovation cost refers to the total hard construction cost charged to the client for the renovation work. This includes all labour and construction-related expenses associated with the project, but excludes the cost of land, the original pre-renovation structure, and any furnishings, décor, or artwork.

Entrants must be prepared to provide detailed client invoices, including a full breakdown of labour and construction costs, should they be requested by the GOHBA judging panel.

Projects will be considered substantial renovations and must instead be entered in the Custom Home categories if any of the following apply:

  • More than 85% of the existing structure has been removed.
  • The original home is no longer clearly identifiable; or
  • The portion of the original house that remains represents 15% or less of the total gross floor area of the completed project, including all additions.

All submissions must include clearly labelled site plans and floor plans that distinctly identify existing elements versus new construction and additions.

ENTRY REQUIREMENTS:

Digital Photos:

  • 1 photograph of your main project image. This photo will be used for all awards/media purposes. Please label this photo as your "main".
  • 5 - 10 photographs showing interior & exterior views (if applicable) of the renovation.
  • 1 - 5 photographs showing before renovations (minimum of one photograph is required). Before and after photographs are strongly recommended.
  • Please note that photos should be 300 dpi resolution and may be resized to facilitate loading for judges. Photos should be a maximum of 10 megabytes.
  • Each photo must be assigned a unique name or reference number for identification. Please do not include your company name, architect name, builder name, street name, client name, or any other identifying information that could link the photos to your organization. Failure to comply may result in the photos being removed from the judges' review.

Written Submission:

  • The written submission (maximum 400 words) should clearly explain how and why the design achieved its success. Submissions should describe the design intent, key features, and decision-making process, highlighting the elements that set the project apart and contributed to its overall functionality, aesthetics, and impact. Please do not include company name, builder name, architect name, street name, or any other identifying features in this written description. This written description is intended for judges' review only. A condensed version will later be required to display on the finalist monitors.

PDF of the Site Pan/Floor Plan:

  • All submitted drawings and floor plans must clearly show overall room areas and dimensions. Key elements, such as cabinetry, appliances, sinks, and other fixed components, must be clearly identified.
  • Please ensure that no company name, architect name, builder name, logo, street name, client name, or any other identifying features appear on any drawings, floor plans, or related materials. Failure to comply may result in the materials being removed from the judges' review.
  • Please keep in mind that proper line weights and presentation style drawings are encouraged. 3D views and colour renderings are permitted to enhance the intent of the design.
Criteria
Criterion Weight
Aesthetics/Appeal 20.0%
Functionality 20.0%
Innovation/Unique Design 20.0%
Cohesiveness 20.0%
Creative Use of Space 20.0%