Architecture at Zero 2026 is an international design competition focused on decarbonization, equity, and resilience. Open to students and professionals worldwide, the competition challenges entrants to envision La Plaza, a two-story, 10,000 sq. ft. educational and cultural venue at the Antelope Valley Fair and Event Center in Lancaster, California. The project must serve a dual purpose: a flexible cultural hub under normal conditions and a fully functional Emergency Operations Center (EOC) during regional disasters.

In everyday use, La Plaza will operate as a community-centered facility designed to host lectures, art programming, exhibitions, performances, quinceañeras, weddings, and other public events. The venue should embrace the multicultural identity of Antelope Valley—particularly its large Latino population—and act as a welcoming civic living room that strengthens cultural connection and belonging. 

During emergencies, however, the building will transform into a command post used by multiple agencies, including first responders, the National Weather Service, the National Guard, and local emergency and fire teams. Designers must integrate spatial flexibility, communication infrastructure, resource management areas, and environmental comfort strategies to support coordinated disaster response. The site will serve evacuees seeking safe shelter, food, information, and respite during events such as wildfires, earthquakes, heat waves, and extreme weather.  

Entrants are required to address three core performance themes:

1. Decarbonization:

   Proposals must demonstrate strategies for reduced operational and embodied carbon. This includes careful energy use, electrification, load shifting, on-site renewable energy generation, and energy storage. An “Energy and Emissions” spreadsheet tool is provided in the competition packet, and hourly emissions output is required. 

2. Resilience:

   Antelope Valley faces severe climate and seismic risks, including extreme heat, air quality concerns, water scarcity, high winds, and earthquakes. Designs should show how the building will maintain safety, function, and comfort during crises. Competitors must identify resilience strategies in drawings and complete a climate adaptation table. 

3. Equity:

   Entrants must submit a short essay (up to 250 words) explaining how their design promotes equity and responds to the community’s cultural and social context. Projects should recognize vulnerabilities across varying populations and ensure inclusive access to services, safety, and cultural programming. 

There is no entry fee for students (with valid 2025-26 student ID). Professional submissions cost $350 per entry, and multiple entries are allowed. Total awarded prize money is up to $25,000, distributed at the discretion of the jury. Winners will be announced in July 2026 during an online ceremony.  

To learn more, visit www.architectureatzero.com.