The Daylight Award 2026 is now open for nominations, continuing its mission to honor outstanding contributions to the innovative use of natural light in architecture and research. Building on the legacy of the 2024 laureates—acclaimed architect Alberto Campo Baeza and pioneering chronobiologist Till Roenneberg—the award remains a prestigious platform for recognizing work that enhances human well-being and sustainability through daylight.
Presented biennially by the Daylight Academy, an international network uniting scientists, researchers, and architects, the award is presented in two categories:
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Daylight Research – Recognizing scientific and humanistic studies that expand the understanding of daylight and its impact on human health, performance, and behavior.
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Daylight in Architecture – Honoring architectural projects or practices that skillfully integrate daylight as a central and sustainable design element.
Global Call for Nominations
Nominations for the 2026 edition are welcomed from across the globe. Eligible nominators include scientists, researchers, architects, curators, editors, journalists, and other professionals who can recommend exceptional individuals or teams. Importantly, all nominations are anonymous, and self-nominations are not permitted.
“With daylight as a natural, sustainable, and human-centric resource, this award highlights the vital role it plays in both the built environment and human biology,” says the Daylight Award committee.
📄 Download the Official Nomination PDF:
Nominations Open for The Daylight Award 2026 (PDF)
Nominations close on September 15, 2025.
Learn more and submit a nomination at: https://thedaylightaward.com/award/
Esteemed Jury Panel
The 2026 jury brings together a remarkable interdisciplinary panel chaired by Gerd Folkers, professor emeritus (CH). Other jury members include:
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Dorte Mandrup – Architect and professor (DK)
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Russell Foster – Neuroscientist and professor (UK)
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Annette Gigon – Architect and professor emeritus (CH)
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Iwan Baan – Renowned architectural photographer (NL/US)
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Yvonne de Kort – Environmental psychologist and professor (NL)
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Michael J. Balick – Ethnobotanist (US)
These experts contribute a diverse and critical perspective to evaluating the significance and innovation behind each nomination.
Shaping a Brighter Future with Daylight
The Daylight Award encourages a global dialogue on the role of natural light in shaping healthier, more sustainable environments. As the world continues to face the challenges of climate change, urbanization, and human well-being, this award stands as a beacon for interdisciplinary innovation.
We encourage members of the scientific and architectural communities to explore this opportunity and support the recognition of extraordinary work in daylight research and design.
More information and media assets (available in English, German, French, and Spanish) can be found at:
https://thedaylightaward.com/press/
