Architizer Announces 2026 A+Award Winners

Architizer has announced the Finalists for its 14th annual A+Awards, recognizing two RDG projects — University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Engineering Research Link (Architecture + Glass) and Waukee CSD Natatorium (Gyms & Recreation Centers) — with a Special Mention honor. 

The Architizer A+Awards program celebrates design that creates meaningful impact by elevating everyday life and shaping more thoughtful, sustainable communities. Winners are selected from entries received from over 70 countries, with the Special Mention distinction awarded to projects that demonstrate remarkable achievement and signal worldwide leadership in architecture and design.

The University of Nebraska–Lincoln’s Engineering Research Link is part of a larger transformation of the College of Engineering campus, modernizing research, teaching and collaboration spaces and connecting Nebraska Hall and the Scott Engineering Center. Designed as both a physical and visual connector, the new link features a high-performance glass façade and a visible network of ramps and stairs that tie together three main entrances and bridge varying floor levels.

Recessed glass panels create depth across the façade, alternating between clear views and textured shading to reveal activity inside and support the project’s goal of “science on display.” The curtain wall design balances transparency with energy performance, particularly along the building’s western exposure. Early studies helped shape the façade’s 10-degree angle, custom glass coatings and 30% frit pattern, reducing solar heat gain by 40%. The recessed glazing also maintains clear views between the interior and 16th Street while supporting energy efficiency and visual connection to the campus.

Waukee Community School District’s Natatorium is a competition and training venue serving two high schools and the broader community in Waukee, Iowa, the state’s fastest-growing school district. Designed to rival leading collegiate aquatic facilities, the venue features a 50-meter stretch pool and a 25-yard fast-water competition pool capable of hosting two simultaneous eight-lane meets. A separate four-lane warm-up pool supports training, recreation and learn-to-swim programs.

Inspired by the movement and flow of water, the building’s exterior features graphic patterns that reflect the surface of an active pool and hint at the energy within. The cladding breaks from traditional orthogonal forms to reinforce a sense of motion, while angled fins subtly guide views toward spectator circulation and movement throughout the facility.

Waukee CSD envisioned a natatorium filled with natural light, a quality not often associated with competitive aquatic facilities. RDG’s design carefully balances daylight, glare control and contrast to support student-athlete safety and create a comfortable, high-performance competition environment. Together, these elements present a cohesive and welcoming aquatic environment that expands access to high-quality recreation and competition space for athletes, students and the community.

Click here to learn more about the 14th Annual Architizer A+Awards.