The Roberta Feldman Architecture for Social Justice Award, administered by the AIA Chicago Foundation, was established in 2020 to honor excellence in single built projects and single design programs guided by the conviction that access to high quality architecture is not a privilege, it is a human right. Architecture for Social Justice is defined by the following objectives: first, to engage a broader cross-section of society, especially those not typically able to access architectural services and, second, to create innovative design solutions that address complex social and economic inequities that impact these communities. This yearly award celebrates the commitment of designers who work on behalf of the public good while receiving no or below market rate compensation*.

A monetary award of $2,500 will be given by the AIA Chicago Foundation for built projects and/or design programs that exemplify socially just design practices and impact. Non-monetary honorable mentions may also be awarded. There is no cost to enter.

*Market rate compensation is based on conventional fee structures.

Roberta Feldman, Ph.D., is Professor Emerita at the University of Illinois at Chicago, School of Architecture. As an architectural activist, researcher, and educator she is committed to democratic design. Feldman’s work is grounded in the conviction that high quality design is a meaningful and necessary component of an equitable and sustainable society. Her expertise in such work has been recognized nationally and internationally.

Paola Aguirre
Borderless Studio, Chicago

Catherine Baker, FAIA
Chicago

Kerl LaJeune, Assoc. AIA
City of Chicago, Public Building Commission, Chicago

John Syvertsen, FAIA
Chicago

Grant Uhlir (Jury Chair), FAIA
Gensler, Chicago