The DECODE Foundation for Contemporary Architecture and Art is pleased to announce the eighth edition of the DECODE Award.
DOWNLOAD THE CALL FOR ENTRIES HERE
The DECODE Award draws attention to the ideas, questions and creative processes that lie behind works of architecture and art. Rather than focusing on the finished building, artwork or design itself, the award seeks to reveal the intellectual journey that led to its creation.
Every work begins with a question, a realization or a story. DECODE welcomes submissions that can demonstrate how an initial thought develops into a distinctive and independent creative work. At the heart of the competition are the strength of the concept, intellectual curiosity and the value-generating power of creative thinking.
The competition is open to architects and visual and applied artists between the ages of 18 and 35, from Hungary and abroad, who are affiliated with a higher education or arts institution. Applicants are invited to submit a single video, between 30 seconds and 3 minutes in length, presenting their creative process, the development of their concept, and the ideas that shaped their project.
Applicants may enter in one of two categories:
- Architecture
- Visual and Applied Arts
Registration for the competition is required. The registration deadline is 12 October 2026. Submission deadline for entries: 19 October 2026 (Monday), 12:00 noon.
Awards in Each Category
- 1 First Prize: HUF 1,000,000 net
- 2 “Promising Project” Awards: HUF 150,000 net each
In recognition of the First Prize-winning works, the winners will receive DECODE’s signature award object, a hand-polished crystal-clear glass sculpture specially designed by Fruzsina Zalavári for the DECODE Award.
Special Award
- 1 “Spotlight” Sponsor Award, recognizing creative works that serve and advance society.
All submissions will be evaluated by an independent professional jury. Shortlisted entries will be presented in an exhibition at Apollo Gallery, while the winners will be announced at the DECODE Award Ceremony on 17 November 2026 at Apollo Gallery, located in Corvin Palace, Budapest.