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.
A Custom Kitchen is a one-of-a-kind kitchen, individually designed and built for a specific client. These kitchens are not intended to be replicated and typically feature a unique layout, bespoke cabinetry, customized storage solutions, specialty materials, and tailored finishes that reflect the client's lifestyle, functional needs, and design preferences.
For this category, kitchen costs must include all expenses charged to the client related to the completed kitchen, including but not limited to cabinetry, countertops, millwork and trim, major appliances, plumbing fixtures and faucets, flooring, and all wall and ceiling finishes installed after the drywall and subfloor. All lighting elements, such as decorative fixtures and recessed (pot) lighting, must also be included.
Entrants must be prepared to provide detailed client invoices, including a full breakdown of labour and material costs, should they be requested by GOHBA or the judging panel.
This category is a Contemporary design style. Entrants are responsible for selecting the style that best represents their submission at the time of entry. While every effort will be made to respect the entrant's chosen classification, final categorization remains at the discretion of the judging panel. Entries that do not clearly align with the selected design style may be reclassified by the judges to ensure fair and consistent evaluation across all submissions.
Contemporary Custom Kitchens are characterized by clean lines, minimal ornamentation, and a modern aesthetic. Common elements may include flat-panel or slab cabinetry, integrated or concealed appliances, streamlined hardware, neutral or monochromatic colour palettes, mixed modern materials, and an emphasis on simplicity, functionality, and open, uncluttered spaces.
Traditional Custom Kitchens are defined by timeless design elements and classic detailing. These kitchens often feature raised-panel or detailed cabinetry, decorative mouldings, furniture-inspired finishes, warm colour palettes, visible hardware, and an overall emphasis on craftsmanship, symmetry, and enduring elegance.
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 - 8 photographs showing the kitchen area.
- 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% |