Environments for Aging Accepting Submissions For 2027 Design Showcase

Presentations are due Dec. 16 for the 31st annual competition.
Published: November 4, 2026

Environments for Aging is accepting submissions for the 2027 EFA Design Showcase competition, now in its 31st year. Presentations are due Dec. 16, and must include a project narrative, images, and floor plans.

Environments for Aging magazine will convene a panel of industry experts to review projects from across the nation and recognize exceptional environments that advance the design of spaces for aging populations—from skilled nursing residents to active adults.

Senior living community owners and operators, as well as architects, interior designers, builders, developers, and other project team members (excluding vendors) are eligible to enter. All projects must have been completed after Dec. 31, 2023.

EFA Design Showcase process

Project categories include new construction, remodel/renovation, addition, and projects in process. Examples of projects settings to submit include 55+/active adult communities, Alzheimer’s/dementia care, assisted living, continuing care retirement communities, hospice, independent living, post-acute/rehab, skilled nursing, and wellness/fitness centers. To download the brochure with submission details, go here.

Projects will be evaluated based on five criteria: design and aesthetics, resident experience and well-being, innovation and problem solving, people and community, and performance and impact.

New Award Levels Added:

A jury of industry experts will review submissions and award winners with Award of Merit, Honorable Mention, Finalist, Jury Distinction, and Jury Selected Project designations.

Top winning projects and teams will be celebrated during an Awards Presentation at the 2027 Environments for Aging Conference + Expo, April 12-14, 2027, in Charlotte, N.C. Additionally, all winners and jury-selected projects will be published in the spring 2027 issue of Environments for Aging.

Questions on EFA Design Showcase

Read about the 2026 EFA Design Showcase winners here.

For questions or to reserve a spot in the annual Design Showcase, contact Donna Hidalgo at [email protected].

Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series
Strategy & Planning Series