AIA Common Application for Design Excellence

Common Application for Design Excellence from the AIA COTE Top Ten Toolkit

The Common Application is based on the AIA’s Framework for Design Excellence which seeks to inform progress toward a zero-carbon, equitable, resilient, and healthy built environment. These are to be thoughtfully considered by designer and client at the initiation of every project and incorporated into the work as appropriate to the project scope. The Framework is intended to be accessible and relevant for every architect, every client, and every project, regardless of size, typology, or aspiration.

Completion of the Common App is only required for those projects submitting for COTE Award recognition in the AIA Long Beach / South Bay Design Awards program. Learn more about the AIA LBSB 2025 Design Awards program.