Facade Award

The Facade Award is presented for:

• exemplary results in the professional preservation or restoration of facades,
• outstanding renovation work on existing buildings,
• exemplary facade design in new construction,
• meticulously executed architectural details and structures,
• compelling design and high aesthetic standards for the building’s appearance in relation to the adjacent public space,
• quality craftsmanship,
• quality of open spaces and design of the surrounding environment, taking into account social and urban ecological considerations, including landscaping that contributes to an overall aesthetic impression.

The Special Prize for Energy Efficiency is awarded:

• to promote innovative construction technologies related to energy efficiency, or
• for construction projects in which the architecture is combined with the use of renewable energy and techniques to increase energy efficiency in a particularly exemplary manner. Aspects of resource conservation and sustainability, considered holistically, may be included in the evaluation.

Applications may be submitted in writing or electronically. You can either fill out the online form or use the application materials available under "Downloads."

The following information and documents are required:

• Personal information,
• Information about the property, including a description of the work performed on the exterior envelope, with details on windows, doors, roofing, color selection, and the time period during which the work was carried out,
• at least two, but no more than eight photos showing the new building or the condition of the property before and after renovation, including information on the photographer.

Additionally, when applying for the Special Energy Efficiency Award:

• Documentation of the energy efficiency measures by submitting the relevant supporting evidence.

If the application is submitted in writing, it must consist of the application form(s), photos, and, if applicable, supporting documentation regarding energy efficiency, marked with the keyword “Jena Facade Award 2026,” and sent to

City of Jena
Urban Planning Department
P.O. Box 100 338
07703 Jena

For digital applications, please use either the online form or send your application materials to fassadenpreis@jena.de.

Each year, with the support of private sponsors, prize money totaling approximately 10,000 € is awarded to recognize outstanding facades.

The jury awards the prize money to private building owners to recognize their commitment and to encourage others to follow their example. Buildings owned by municipal enterprises and public-sector construction projects may be included in the evaluation but are excluded from cash prizes.

In addition, the City of Jena awards a special prize for energy efficiency. It is endowed with 1,000 €.

The awarding of honorable mentions (with or without prize money) and the Special Prize for Energy Efficiency is optional.

All award winners will receive a certificate and a plaque. The award ceremony for the 34th Facade Prize will take place on December 14, 2026, at 6:00 p.m. in the foyer of the Historic City Hall, Markt 1, 07743 Jena.

The jury consists of the sponsors and two representatives of the City of Jena. Each jury member is entitled to one vote.

The City Planning Department and an energy consultant will review the submitted application materials to ensure they are complete. If necessary, applicants may be asked to provide additional documentation. For the purposes of the competition, the properties will be anonymized to the greatest extent possible.

Sponsors of the 34th Jena Facade Award