We're preparing to celebrate the 50 Cycles of the World Architecture Community Awards (WA Awards)! 

As we conclude the 49th Cycle of the World Architecture Community Awards, we reflect on the remarkable projects that have enriched contemporary architectural discourse and have the potential to inspire for years to come. The WA Awards 10+5+X, held 3 to 4 cycles each year, is an online competition program that embraces diverse geographies, typologies, territories, innovative approaches, construction methods, and showcases young architectural firms and student projects of all sizes.

The online competition program brings attention to projects from some of the most remote and inaccessible regions

Since its inception, the online global competition has recognized over 15,800 projects, bringing attention to projects from some of the most remote and inaccessible regions of the world. In other words, the diversity and richness of the winning projects form the fundamental core of the competition. 

The WA Awards imbues curiosity and critique

The WA Awards competition program offers participants and readers broad, rich, layered, and diverse perspectives on contemporary architecture that imbue curiosity and critique—whether the oeuvre of professional architecture offices, young architects, or architecture students just starting to build their careers.

Acting as a global guide for readers and members who seek inspiration, the competition not only celebrates one winner but selects multiple winners, is decided entirely by votes from the World Architecture Community's global architecture community. As we prepare for the milestone 50th Cycle of the competition, we've reviewed the most visited projects from every 10 cycles for our readers.

Upon examining the list, it's evident that the projects with the highest visibility are predominantly from Professional Members and those who regularly participate in the competition. For example, WAC Honorary and Professional member Sanjay Puri Architects is at the top of the list, while Zaha Hadid Architects has managed to bring its projects to the top in half of the cycles with its consistent participation. 

Do you want your project to reach the highest visibility? Subscribe to WAC's Professional Membership and submit your projects to the 50th Cycle of WA Awards. 

Deadline for the WA Awards 50th Cycle is on Monday, 31 March 2025 (23:59 GMT +0).

Below, you can explore the most visited projects from the 40th, 30th, 20th, and 10th cycles, along with their respective descriptions:

WA Awards 10+5+X 40th Cycle

Image © Bharath Ramamrutham

Dining Space At DevaDhare, India by Play Architecture

Dining Space At DevaDhare by Play Architecture won the WA Awards 40th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The project, which was situated on a 10-acre property next to a lake in India, developed organically, and the homestay was converted into a resort that required a dining area over an existing stream. In order to eliminate difficult terrain and create a sense of floatation, a 150 mm thick doubly curved timbrel vault roof with five layers of 15 mm thick ribbed clay tiles spans 16.5 m from four corners over RCC pedestals. This allows for an interior layout without columns and allows for flexibility in furniture placement. 

At the time of this writing, the project received 5,677 views. 

Image courtesy of Mohsen Kheirmand Parizi

X City - Under The Moon, Iran by Mohsen Kheirmand Parizi (Student)

X City - Under The Moon, Iran by Mohsen Kheirmand Parizi won the WA Awards the WA Awards 40th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category. The proejct discusses the importance of designing living spaces on the moon, drawing from experiences on Earth to enhance quality of life. It emphasizes energy management, the significance of incorporating natural elements like plants and animals, and the effective use of sunlight for illumination and hygiene. By creating well-designed environments that address temperature control and the needs of both humans and nature, a sustainable moon village can be developed.

At the time of this writing, the project received 4,860 views. 

Image © Liang Xue

Infinitus Plaza, China by Zaha Hadid Architects

Infinitus Plaza, China by Zaha Hadid Architects won the WA Awards the WA Awards 40th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The project, located in Guangzhou's Baiyun Central Business District, embodies innovative design and sustainability, featuring interconnected buildings that promote collaboration and employee wellness. Designed with LEED Gold certification, the plaza utilizes recycled materials, advanced shading systems, and smart management technologies to optimize indoor air quality and energy efficiency. Its outdoor spaces, including gardens and a jogging track, contribute to a strong sense of community and support the health and wellness industries in the region.

At the time of this writing, the project received 3,861 views. 

Image © Sanjay Puri Architects

Nokha Village School, India by Sanjay Puri Architects

Nokha Village School, India by Sanjay Puri Architects won the WA Awards the WA Awards 40th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. The Nokha Village School, located at the border of two small villages in Rajasthan, India, aims to empower local girls through education by providing a dedicated facility in an area currently lacking educational resources. Designed with traditional Indian courtyard principles and constructed from local sandstone, the school incorporates natural ventilation methods to adapt to the desert climate while creating multifunctional open spaces for community interaction. This initiative not only focuses on education but also revitalizes traditional craftsmanship by employing local artisans.

At the time of this writing, the project received 3,377 views. 

Image courtesy of Quang Anh Bui

Fresh Air School, Germany by Quang Anh Bui (Student)

Fresh Air School, Germany by Quang Anh Bui won the WA Awards the WA Awards 40th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category. The project discusses the concept of open-air schools, highlighting their historical significance in preventing diseases like tuberculosis and the need for modern educational spaces that promote physical and mental well-being, especially in light of recent global health challenges. It emphasizes the design of Class-houses that blend with nature and the community, fostering creativity and self-learning among students. Additionally, it highlights the importance of integrating green architecture and technology to create a diverse ecosystem that enhances children's learning experiences.

At the time of this writing, the project received 3,080 views.

WA Awards 10+5+X 30th Cycle

Image courtesy of Omnea Aljuhani

Tesla Car Showroom, Saudi Arabia by Omnea Aljuhani (Student)

Tesla Car Showroom, Saudi Arabia by Omnea Aljuhani won the WA Awards the WA Awards 30th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category. Omnea Aljuhani plans to build a new showroom in Jeddah, Saudi Arabia, to showcase its unique industry and advancements in car design, technology, and products. The 8,200-square-metre building will include showrooms, office spaces, and a basement parking area, all designed to enhance visitor experience through interactive elements and community engagement. The project will address various challenges, including aesthetic expression, compliance with regulations, and efficient space utilization.

At the time of this writing, the project received 41,205 views.

Image courtesy of Darcy Chang

Chengdu Hongqi Automobile Town Exhibition Center, China by Darcy Chang (Student)

Chengdu Hongqi Automobile Town Exhibition Center, China by Darcy Chang won the WA Awards the WA Awards 30th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category. Hongqi New Town, a collaboration between China FAW Group and the local government near Chengdu City, features the Hongqi Automobile Exhibition Hall as a key landmark designed to embody the brand's heritage. The building's design concept revolves around the idea of a "flag," with a curvilinear rooftop that creates a dynamic visual experience and responds to the surrounding environment. Its interior includes various functional spaces, such as a visitor center, theater hall, coffee bar, and exhibition spaces for Hongqi vehicles.

At the time of this writing, the project received 39,035 views.

Image courtesy of Nuru Karim

Nūr / Mosque Of Light, United Arab Emirates by Nuru Karim

Nūr / Mosque Of Light, United Arab Emirates by Nuru Karim won the WA Awards the WA Awards 30th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. The Mosque of Light in Dubai Creek Harbour is designed to enhance the spiritual experience through a thoughtful interplay of light and architecture, utilizing multi-layered geometric forms and mashrabiya apertures to filter sunlight into the prayer hall. It caters to a population of 7,500 for daily and special prayers, featuring facilities such as ablution areas, a library, and Imam quarters, while its design also integrates with the surrounding landscape. The mosque’s orientation and structural elements are strategically placed in relation to the nearby Creek Tower and Linear Park, promoting a cool and reflective environment.

At the time of this writing, the project received 21,086 views.

Image © Sanjay Puri Architects

Convention Centre 99, India by Sanjay Puri Architects

Convention Centre 99, India by Sanjay Puri Architects won the WA Awards the WA Awards 30th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. The Convention Centre 99 in Ahmedabad features intersecting curvilinear volumes, designed to accommodate multifunctional spaces for exhibitions and conventions, alongside landscaped open areas. Emphasizing natural light and comfort, the design incorporates perforated screened walls and skylights, creating a sculptural public space that addresses the city's needs.

At the time of this writing, the project received 18,633 views.

Image © Hufton+Crow

Generali Tower, Italy by Zaha Hadid Architects

Generali Tower, Italy by Zaha Hadid Architects won the WA Awards the WA Awards 30th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The project is a key feature of the CityLife masterplan in Milan, built on the site of the former trade fair grounds. The 170-meter tower's unique design features a twisting structure that aligns with the city's primary axes and offers excellent environmental performance, earning it LEED Platinum certification. It accommodates up to 3,900 employees and is seamlessly integrated into the surrounding civic, residential, and business areas of the redeveloped district.

At the time of this writing, the project received 12,443 views.

WA Awards 10+5+X 20th Cycle

Image © Ramprasad Naidu

Girls Hostel, COEP, Pune, India by CCBA Designs

Girls Hostel, COEP, Pune by CCBA Designs won the WA Awards the WA Awards 20th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The College of Engineering campus, completed in 2012, spans 36 acres in Pune and features a Girl’s Hostel Building designed to accommodate 600 girls across eleven stories. The building includes a large dining space, murals, and facilities such as Rector’s residences and a gym, all while harmonizing with a prominent banyan tree. Its design incorporates exposed concrete jaalis and fins, creating a distinct appearance while integrating well with the surrounding context.

At the time of this writing, the project received 42,595 views.

Image © Andre J Fanthome

Dilli Haat, Janakpuri, India by Sourabh Gupta

Dilli Haat, Janakpuri, India by Sourabh Gupta won the WA Awards the WA Awards 20th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The design competition entry in 2005 for a Dilli Haat in Janakpuri, initiated by Delhi Tourism and Transportation Development Corporation, aimed to create a cultural hub for a largely residential area with few recreational options. The concept, titled ‘Haat Beat,’ sought to integrate music and playful interaction into the space, connecting formal and informal shops selling crafts while revitalizing the community with a vibrant cultural heartbeat.

At the time of this writing, the project received 36,524 views.

Image © Cecile Septet

Les Quinconces Cultural Center, France by Jean Francois Renaud

Les Quinconces Cultural Center by Jean Francois Renaud won the WA Awards the WA Awards 20th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The Quinconces cultural complex in Le Mans, designed by Éric Babin and Jean-François Renaud, serves as a vital hub for the town's cultural and social life, linking key public spaces like the Esplanade des Quinconces and Place des Jacobins. Completed in 2014, the complex features a modern municipal theater and a cinema multiplex, designed to accommodate various events and performances, with functional spaces that promote community engagement. Overall, it embodies a sophisticated architectural approach while supporting ambitious cultural initiatives.

At the time of this writing, the project received 26,085 views.

Image © Fahed Majeed

Aeli Old-Age Home, India by Fahed Majeed

Aeli Old-Age Home by Fahed Majeed won the WA Awards the WA Awards 20th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. The Aeli old-age home, initiated by Mr. Ravi Thomas, transformed a previously proposed youth hostel into a rejuvenating haven for seniors. It offers luxurious facilities and activities, including a bakery, organic gardening, and a unique aquaponics salad garden, encouraging residents to reconnect with themselves and nature.

At the time of this writing, the project received 15,907 views.

Image © Barberio Colella ARC

Unboxed - 100% Recycable Prefab Wooden House?, Italy by Micaela Colella and Maurizio Barberio (Student)

Unboxed - 100% Recycable Prefab Wooden House? by Micaela Colella and Maurizio Barberio won the WA Awards 20th Cycle in the Architecture/Student category. The project, created for the "Designing your future" competition by Marlegno in 2014, focuses on an innovative wooden prefab house designed with eco-sustainability and recyclability in mind. Comprising modular elements that allow for various layout options, the house features a foundation made of lightweight steel and large windows to enhance the connection with the natural environment. Tailored for the Mediterranean region, it offers a modern alternative to traditional masonry, emphasizing harmony with sunlight and nature.

At the time of this writing, the project received 15,093 views.

WA Awards 10+5+X 10th Cycle

Image © Sanjay Puri Architects

Rustomjee School, India by Sanjay Puri Architects 

Rustomjee School by Sanjay Puri Architects won the WA Awards 10th Cycle in the Architecture/Designed category. The design features classrooms positioned around the edges of a 4760 square meters wedge-shaped site, which together form a spacious internal courtyard. This layout creates a large, sheltered area that evokes memories of traditional courtyard designs.

At the time of this writing, the project received 17,930 views.

Image © Nelson Kon

Sebrae National Headquarters, Brazil by Alvaro Puntoni

Sebrae National Headquarters by Alvaro Puntoni won the WA Awards 10th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The proposed architectural complex for the new national Sebrae headquarters in Brasilia is designed to harmonize with the urban topography and facilitate user integration with the built and natural environment. Completed in 2010, the design showcases exposed steel and concrete elements, contrasting natural colors with the structure, and aims to enhance the overall experience of the space while connecting the community.

At the time of this writing, the project received 16,646 views.

Image © Miguel Baudizzone, Jorge Lestard

Parque De La Memoria Costanera Norte, Buenos Aires, Argentina by Miguel Baudizzone and Jorge Lestard

Parque De La Memoria Costanera Norte by Miguel Baudizzone and Jorge Lestard won the WA Awards 10th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The Parque de la Memoria's architectural and landscape design, developed by the Baudizzone, Lestard, Varas, Ferrari, and Becker Architectural Firm, emerged from a 1998 competition. Its design harmonizes with the environment, featuring a Monument that symbolizes both the struggle for a just society and the scars left by state violence, with a thoughtfully chosen location that reflects its commemorative purpose.

At the time of this writing, the project received 12,860 views.

Image © Seong Bong Yun

Butterfly House, South Korea by Luca Donner

Butterfly House by Luca Donner won the WA Awards 10th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. The Butterfly House in Gapyeong is designed to harmonize with its natural surroundings and local culture, emphasizing sustainability, affordability, and Feng Shui principles. The structure consists of two interconnected units for a family and grandparents, featuring large panoramic terraces that resemble butterfly wings. Key design elements include natural ventilation, high insulation, and strategic orientation to optimize solar exposure and protect against harsh weather.

At the time of this writing, the project received 10,465 views.

Image © Anssi Kankkunen

Sra Pou Vocational School, Cambodia by Architects Rudanko Kankkunen

Sra Pou Vocational School by Architects Rudanko Kankkunen won the WA Awards 10th Cycle in the Architecture/Realized category. Sra Pou vocational school is a community-focused training center in Cambodia, designed by Finnish architects Rudanko + Kankkunen and built in 2011 to support poor families in earning sustainable livelihoods. The school emphasizes the use of local materials and techniques, enabling community members to learn construction skills applicable to their homes. Serving as both an educational facility and a public gathering space, it addresses the urgent needs of the underprivileged Sra Pou community.

At the time of this writing, the project received 9,411 views.

The top image in the article: Sebrae National Headquarters, Brazil by Alvaro Puntoni. Image © Nelson Kon.

WA Awards