CotY Project Judging Criteria

NARI CotY projects are judged across six categories and are scored from 1 - 15 in each category. Better project submissions clearly address each category.

  1. To what degree were the client’s expressed needs met?

    1. Did the entry describe the client’s needs and desires?

    2. Did the contractor show that those needs were met?

  2. To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure functionally?

    1. Do the room’s new floor plans function well?

    2. Is the counter space or work area adequate to perform the necessary tasks?

    3. Is there good traffic flow?

    4. Is safety addressed adequately?

    5. Are the materials functional?

    6. Is lighting addressed, both general and task?

  3. To what degree does the project enhance the existing structure aesthetically?

    1. Keep in mind the following design criteria: line & rhythm, continuity & repetition, texture, color & contrast, symmetry & balance, emphasis

  4. Is there evidence of superior craftsmanship?

    1. Moldings, woodwork, stairs, cabinetry, countertops, tile, glass, marble, metal, stone, masonry, and others.

  5. Were there innovative uses of material and/or methods of construction used in the project?

    1. Are innovative uses evident or were any described and noted?

  6. Did the contractor overcome difficult obstacles?

    1. Were difficult obstacles encountered as described by the contractor and overcome in a creative way?

Residential historic renovation/restoration projects are also judged on the ability to duplicate the original materials used in the home and were there improvements to the original style of the structure.