#Japan #Tokyo #exterior design #Photo Contest #YKK AP

YKK AP Exterior Style Awards 2025

The renowned YKK AP Inc., headquartered in Chiyoda, Tokyo, is excited to announce the commencement of the "YKK AP Exterior Style Awards 2025" photo contest. Opening on May 12, the competition invites participants to showcase their creativity by submitting photographs of exterior spaces designed and constructed using YKK AP products. As part of this prestigious event, YKK AP will introduce a new wood-tone color in April 2025 that allows for a cohesive design across entrance doors, exterior products, and metal sidings.

In its 15th edition this year, the YKK AP Exterior Style Awards aims to promote creativity in designing exterior spaces, recognizing works that not only meet the demands of clients but also demonstrate superior construction techniques and aesthetics. Among the new features of the event is the “YKK AP Total Coordination Award,” which will honor designs that proficiently combine YKK AP products for a harmonious look between the building and its exterior.

Additionally, the “Plain Roof Award” has been added, which will recognize entries that effectively incorporate the recently launched Plain Roof aluminum carport into their designs, enhancing the overall harmony with residential structures.

Competition Overview

The principal objective of the YKK AP Exterior Style Awards is to improve design proposal skills and construction quality among professionals in the field. By inviting participants to submit photographs of innovative external designs that incorporate sustainability and future-oriented ideas, YKK AP hopes to increase awareness of the beauty of exterior spaces and contribute to an enriched living environment.

Eligibility Criteria

The competition is open to designers and contractors who have worked on exterior projects using YKK AP products. Entry submissions can be completed through a dedicated website, and detailed requirements are outlined there as well. Participants must meet the following conditions:

• - The project must include YKK AP products and be designed, constructed, or sold by the applicant.
• - The project must be completed after April 2024.

Judging Methodology

A panel of judges will evaluate the submissions based on the following criteria:

• - The design must fulfill the client's requirements while ensuring a cohesive look between the building and the exterior.
• - The project should showcase creativity in exterior design and construction.
• - The construction must reflect quality craftsmanship and technical skills.
• - Considerations for the surrounding environment and future sustainability should be evident in the design.

Competition Categories

Participants can compete in the following categories:

• - A: Facade Category (entrance and garage areas)
• - B: Garden Category (yard and planting solutions)
• - C: Exterior Renovation Category (for changes to existing structures)
• - D: Detached Residential Neighborhood Category
• - E: Public and Multifamily Residential Category
• - F: Display and Model Homes Category
• - Special Prize: Total Coordination Award for projects that creatively integrate multiple YKK AP products.

Other accolades include the Plain Roof Award, the Garden Lighting Award, and the Video Achievement Award, among others. The awards range from monetary prizes to specialty trophies

Award Prizes

Overall, the prizes include:

• - Grand Prize: ¥300,000
• - Gold Award: ¥100,000
• - Silver Award: Amazon gift voucher of ¥50,000
• - Bronze Award: Amazon gift voucher of ¥30,000
• - Best Style Award: Original photo stand
• - Special Awards: Three trophies with certificates for outstanding works in various categories.

Submission Timeline

The submission period spans from May 12, 2025, to July 22, 2025, with winners announced at the end of October 2025. Participants are encouraged to engage fully in this exciting opportunity to showcase their innovative contributions to exterior design.

For more details and to submit your entry, please visit the official website of the "YKK AP Exterior Style Awards" at YKK AP Awards Site.

Let’s inspire and elevate the standard of exterior design together!