The 20 finalists for the Ontario Association of Architects (OAA) 2024 Design Excellence Awards have been announced and this year’s submissions feature a diverse range of building types, including sustainably designed community centres, an indoor horticultural attraction and performing arts venues in Sudbury and New York City.

The finalists were chosen by a jury of design experts from 100 eligible submissions and serve as the shortlist for the OAA’s Design Excellence Awards category.

The biennial program offers Ontario practices the opportunity to display the transformative influence of architecture, promoting broader public recognition and appreciation for the field.

Finalists were judged on criteria such as creativity, context, sustainability, good design/good business and legacy. Submissions also required disclosure of Energy Use Intensity metrics, due to OAA’s dedication to advance climate action in the public’s interest.