Scoring Rubric
Every entry is reviewed by an independent panel of judges. Project categories are scored on five core criteria, and the Violet Crown Honors each have their own focused scoresheet. Understanding how projects are scored can help you tell your project's story and choose the photos and details that matter most.
Project Category Criteria
Quality of architectural execution: proportion, materials, detailing, and overall aesthetic success.
Judges ask: Does this look and feel like a well-designed home, independent of local rules?
Original or inventive problem-solving — how the entry approached its site, unit mix, or reuse challenge in a way that stands out from a typical solution.
How well the project fits its block and respects its neighbors — appropriate scale, street presence, and thoughtful transitions in height or massing where it sits next to existing homes.
Quality of construction, finish, functionality, and livability, including how the project handles practical issues like drainage and outdoor space.
Judges ask: Does it actually work well as built?
Contribution to AIC's mission: added housing supply, affordability, density done well, or sustainable practice.
Judges ask: Does this make a meaningful case for infill housing done right?
Violet Crown Honors Criteria
Violet Crown Honors entries are scored on three criteria specific to each award, 1–10 points each, for a total possible score of 30 points.
How unique, unexpected, or creative is the project?
Does the project have personality and feel distinctly Austin?
Is the project memorable? Does it make you stop and look?
How significant is the transformation from before to after?
How much did the redesign improve the look, feel, and function of the property?
How impressive is the finished transformation?
How well does the project maximize a limited footprint?
How inventive are the design solutions used to make the most of the available space?
Does the project accomplish something impressive despite its size?
How beautiful and thoughtfully designed is the outdoor space?
How well does the space support outdoor living, gathering, relaxing, or entertaining?
How successfully does the outdoor space feel integrated with the home and overall project?
Judges' Comments
In addition to scoring, judges may provide written comments on each entry to capture standout qualities and help inform final award decisions.
Use these criteria as a guide when preparing your submission, then click Register to begin.