The Ordre des architectes du Québec (OAQ) has just unveiled the 18 standout projects shortlisted for the 2025 Prix du public—the crowd-sourced honor at this year’s Prix d’excellence en architecture. From sleek commercial builds to cozy country homes, these designs have already caught the jury’s eye. Now, it’s your turn to pick a favorite!
Meet the Finalists: 18 Bold Architectural Inspirations
Spanning competition entries, commercial marvels, institutional gems, and everything in between, this year’s roster showcases Quebec architects flexing their creative muscles. You’ll find minimalist cottages that blur indoor-outdoor boundaries, adaptive-reuse projects breathing new life into old structures, cutting-edge cultural centers, thoughtfully designed kitchens and bathrooms, and residential developments that balance sustainability with style. Each of the 18 projects has been selected for its innovative approach, its harmony with the environment, and its potential to enrich daily life.
Your Vote, Your Voice: How to Choose the People’s Favorite
Voting is live now at www.oaq.com/pea2025-vote, and runs through April-25,2025. Browse high-resolution photos, read project descriptions, and get a feel for the concepts before casting your ballot. Whether you lean toward eco-friendly materials, dramatic forms, or community-centered spaces, there’s something to catch every eye. The process is simple: pick the one that resonates most with you and hit “Vote.” Don’t miss the chance to put your stamp on the province’s architectural scene!
Celebrating on May-22: Gala Highlights and Honors
Mark your calendars for May-22, 2025, when the OAQ will host its annual gala at Montréal’s Espace Saint Denis. That evening, the People’s Choice winner will be revealed alongside four special distinctions recognizing exceptional contributions to distinctive, high-quality architecture—honoring not just architects, but also clients and organizations championing architectural excellence. Expect an inspiring showcase of models, renderings, and maybe even some surprise guest speakers celebrating Québec’s built environment visionaries.
Why Architectural Awards Matter: Beyond the Blueprints
Sure, it’s fun to admire striking façades and inventive floor plans, but the Prix d’excellence en architecture aim for more than surface appeal. By spotlighting projects that embody the OAQ’s socio-ecological vision and adhere to rigorous Architectural Quality guidelines, these awards encourage designs that are sustainable, context sensitive, and built to stand the test of time. They remind us that good architecture shapes our daily experiences—from the way light filters through a living room window to how a public building fosters community interaction.
