Submissions for the 2025 HNA AwardsAre Officially Open!

The countdown is on! Submissions for the 2025 HNA Awards are officially open and this year’s competition is shaping up to be the most exciting one yet.

From clearer category descriptions to refreshed evaluation criteria, we’ve made it easier than ever to showcase your hardscape craftsmanship and get the recognition you deserve.

Whether you’re a past winner, aiming to be a first-time entrant, or somewhere in between, now’s the time to jump in, put your work forward, and make your mark.

Here’s what’s new for 2025:

The Early Bird Deadline is July 18

This year’s early bird deadline is earlier than usual, so don’t wait to start your submission.

After the early bird deadline, there is an additional $100 fee per entry. Getting in ahead of schedule means you’ll save money and avoid the last-minute scramble.

If you’ve been waiting for a sign to start organizing your project photos and writing descriptions, this is it!

Deadlines

Early Bird Entry Deadline: July 18, 2025
Final Entry Deadline: August 13, 2025

Early Bird Entry Fees 

Members (CMHA, BIA, and NSI): $100
Non-members: $140

Regular Entry Fees:

Members (CMHA, BIA, and NSI): $200
Non-members: $240

Updated Category Descriptions for More Clarity and Better Fit

 This year, we’ve refined some of the category descriptions to make it easier for you to know exactly where your project belongs. Many categories include residential and commercial subcategories, and some are even broken down by square footage or by system type—like permeable pavement—to create fair and meaningful comparisons.

Here are a few categories worth a closer look:

o   Segmental Concrete Pavement – Permeable Interlocking Concrete Pavement (PICP)
Got a project using PICP in horizontal to near horizontal applications? This subcategory is your chance to show off your work! Just remember, stormwater systems beneath traditionally impermeable surfaces aren’t eligible for this category.

o   Vintage Installation – Residential/Commercial
These projects are proof of the power of great hardscaping design and installation! Dig deep in your portfolio and submit any project completed before 2016 to show off how well it’s aged. This category celebrates durability, longevity, and the kind of craftsmanship that stands the test of time.

o   Adhered Thin Veneers
This still growing category debuted last year and we’re hoping to see even more projects submitted this year! It has subcategories for both residential and commercial applications and it’s perfect for those stunning vertical or near-vertical applications using manufactured stone veneer, dry-cast concrete thin veneer, natural stone thin veneer, or clay brick thin veneer.

Clearer Evaluation Criteria to Help You Tell Your Story

We’ve refined our evaluation criteria to help you better tell your project’s story.

Yes, strong images with your submission matter, but don’t underestimate a great project description! A compelling write-up can help judges see your creativity and skill, even if your photos aren’t perfect.

This year, entries will be judged on:

1.     Design (including use of color, shape, texture, and pattern)

2.     Quality of finished project and craftsmanship

3.     Construction creativity, going beyond the basics

4.     Integration of the hardscape product(s) with surrounding materials and structures  

5.     Successfully achieving the client's goal/reason for the project, including a testimonial

 Projects will be awarded up to 10 points for each of the five criteria for a maximum total of 50 points from each judge. The points awarded by each judge will be added together to calculate the entry's total points.

 For each award category, the project with the highest total points will be selected as the award winner and the project with the second highest total points will be awarded an honorable mention.

Make This the Year You Submit (One or Many!)

There’s no limit on entries. If you’ve got multiple projects you’re proud of, enter them all.

 Every submission is a chance to gain recognition, elevate your work, and inspire others in the industry.

 Let this be the year you go all in. Start strong, submit early, and get ready for the celebration at the HNA Awards Ceremony this October in Louisville!