Nominations for the Quality Building Award 2026 (QBA 2026) are open now. The biennial event is jointly organised by ten top professional institutions and organisations in Hong Kong’s architecture and construction sectors. With a history spanning over two decades, the award aims to recognise outstanding building projects in Hong Kong, mainland, and overseas, as well as teams that have demonstrated exceptional collaboration and teamwork.
QBA 2026 is chaired by The Hong Kong Institute of Housing (HKIH). The theme for this year is “Smartly We Build | Sustainably We Thrive | Inclusively We Lead,” focusing on honouring projects that employ intelligent, sustainable, and inclusive solutions. The goal is to drive industry innovation and green development, promote social collaboration, and collectively build a prosperous and sustainable future. This year, the award categories have been further expanded to encourage greater participation from projects in the Greater Bay Area and overseas regions.
Expanded International and Greater Bay Area Categories to Foster Cross-Regional Collaboration
Hong Kong has the distinctive advantages of enjoying strong support from the mainland and being closely connected to the world. As an industry that relies heavily on cross-regional collaboration with both mainland and international partners, the construction sector can benefit from strengthening external connections and technical exchange opportunities.
QBA 2026 has expanded the eligibility of two categories: “Building Outside GBA (include International)” and “Building in GBA (Not include Hong Kong).” These categories are open to high-quality projects from mainland and around the world, with no requirement for involvement from Hong Kong-registered companies. Projects only need to submit proof of completion. Whether residential or non-residential, new construction or renovation, all eligible projects are encouraged to participate.
This initiative aims to promote professional interaction among Hong Kong, Greater Bay Area, and the international community. It encourages cross-regional teams to showcase their outstanding work, share experiences and technologies, and further strengthen Hong Kong’s role as an international hub.
Ms CHANG Yuk Kam, Patricia, Chairlady of QBA 2026 Organising Committee, stated, “We hope the award will inspire the industry to move beyond solely pursuing scale and height, and instead focus on integrating innovative technologies and sustainable practices that truly meet the needs of users and communities. Particularly against the era of Hong Kong’s integration with the Greater Bay Area, cross-disciplinary and cross-regional collaboration has become an inevitable trend.
The relaxed eligibility criteria this year are designed to encourage more teams from the Greater Bay Area and internationally to participate and collectively elevate regional building standards.”
Mr HO Chun Hung, JP, Chairman of QBA 2026 Jury Panel and Director of Buildings Department, HKSARG, stated, “Architecture is not merely a fusion of technology and art, but also a vital force driving social progress. We encourage entries to fully embody the spirit of ‘people-oriented’ design, showcase sustainable and inclusive architecture, and apply innovative and smart technologies in design, construction, building management and maintenance, thereby injecting new impetus into making Hong Kong a more livable city.”
Nomination Details and Key Dates
Nominations for the QBA 2026 are open now. The deadline for submissions is 12pm HKT on Friday, 28 November 2025. Teams from Hong Kong, the Greater Bay Area, and around the world are encouraged to submit entries across multiple categories, including but not limited to residential, commercial, cultural, public facilities, and urban redevelopment projects.
Click here for official category details, the latest updated jury panel, and more information.
