Architecture has always been one of the Mediterranean’s shared languages.

Across territories shaped by migrations, climate, memory, coexistence and transformation, architecture continues to define how communities inhabit the world together.

At a time marked by environmental, social and geopolitical challenges, the UMAR Architecture Award seeks to foster dialogue through architecture.

The award recognizes projects that contribute to a more inclusive, resilient and culturally conscious Mediterranean environment.

Rather than proposing a single architectural identity, the award aims to reflect the diversity, complexity and richness of Mediterranean cultures and ways of living.

The Award

The UMAR Architecture Award is a biennial international distinction recognizing contemporary architectural works that generate positive social, cultural and environmental impact within the Mediterranean context.

Each edition aims to reward architectural excellence while encouraging socially engaged, environmentally responsible and culturally grounded approaches.

Among those registered, the Jury may select the three best projects implemented in the Mediterranean basin

• The first-place winner will be awarded the “Mediterranean Architecture Award”
• The second and third place winners will receive a formal recognition and a commemorative plaque.
• The jury may also award up to two mentions to authors of projects with specific merits.
• The first-place winners will be invited as guests of UMAR to present their work during the Award Ceremony hosted in Istanbul, by the Chamber of Architects of Turkey, on the 25-26 September 2026.

The Theme

“Living Mediterranean Culture” – Residential Buildings

In a global climate often marked by instability, this award serves as a platform for intercultural dialogue and exchange of best practices that will serve as an example for everyone else.

This first edition focuses on residential architecture as a fundamental expression of Mediterranean life and community.

Projects are expected to demonstrate:

• Environmental responsibility
• Sensitivity to climate adaptation
• Careful use of water and energy resources
• Integration within urban and cultural contexts
• Inclusive public and collective spaces
• Awareness of local heritage and identity
• Responsible approaches to reconstruction and fragile territories

The jury will value, not only architectural excellence, but also the ability of the projects to generate a significant social and environmental impact.

Request for Clarification

Participants may submit any questions regarding the Award during the designated clarification period. All questions should be mailed to: assistance.award@umar.org

The answers will be published on the official website within 48 hours and will be accessible to everyone.

Calendar

15th June, 2026: Publication of the Call and opening of submission of questions

15th July, 2026: Deadline for clarification requests

15th August, 2026: Final deadline for registration and submission

10th September, 2026: Completion of Jury deliberations

25-26th September 2026: Award Ceremony — Istanbul, Turkey (Türkiye)

The Jury

• Mara Partida — Spain: Architect and co-founder of Mendoza Partida, an international architecture practice based in Barcelona focused on cultural and residential architecture.

• Ida Origgi — Italy: Architect and urban designer recognized for socially engaged architectural practice and community-oriented urban regeneration.

• Sandra Frem — Lebanon: Co-founder of platau, an interdisciplinary platform working across architecture, urbanism and research in the Middle East.

• Mohamed Amine Siana — Morocco: Architect and cultural advocate involved in multiple international architectural initiatives and award platforms.

• Deniz Dokgöz — Türkiye: Architect, academic and co-founder of İkiartıbir Mimarlık, recipient of numerous national architectural awards.

Alternate Jury Members

• Germin Farouk Hafez El-Gohary — Egypt. Architect, academic and specialist in architectural and urban design, currently associated with Ain Shams University.

• Dimitris Xynomilakis — Greece. Architect and long-standing representative of the Association of Architects of Greece within ACE-CAE and UMAR.

Rapporteurs

• Alessandra Ferrari — Italy

• Ibrahim Hindi — Palestine

• Selin Oktan — Türkiye

Advisors

• Amir Turki — President, Tunisia

• Fabian Llisterri — Secretary General, Spain

• Lilia Cannarella — Treasurer, Italy

Exhibition and Publication

Submitted materials may be used by UMAR for conferences, exhibitions and publications related to the Award.

Selected projects may also be published on the UMAR website and promoted through UMAR member sections and associated cultural platforms.

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