VELUX and RIBA Journal Launch the Daylight from Above Awards
VELUX, in collaboration with the RIBA Journal (RIBAJ), proudly introduces the Daylight from Above Awards, celebrating the transformative power of natural light in architectural design.
These awards aim to showcase projects where the integration of daylight has significantly enriched interior spaces, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal. By viewing natural light as a fundamental architectural component, the awards spotlight innovative designs that prioritise light as a key factor in creating inspiring environments.
With entries now open for submission , the awards will honour exceptional projects across two categories: Light, Space and Atmosphere and Heritage Conservation.
Light, Space and Atmosphere
This category highlights the extraordinary potential of top-lighting in architecture. By introducing skylights or roof windows, designers can unlock hidden opportunities in constrained or deep-plan spaces, adding depth, beauty, and a dynamic sense of weather and skyscapes to interiors.
The Light, Space and Atmosphere award will recognise UK-based residential projects—both new builds and adaptations—completed in the past three years. Entries should incorporate VELUX sloped or flat roof windows as part of a thoughtful and creative approach to daylighting. These projects could range from reimagined circulation areas to everyday spaces brought to life by playful shadow and light.
Heritage Conservation
Restoring historic and heritage buildings requires a delicate balance of respect for tradition and innovation. Thoughtful introduction of daylight can elevate such projects, while maintaining their structural and aesthetic integrity.
This special category celebrates projects using the new VELUX Heritage conservation roof window range to bring light into historic buildings in ways that honour their character and value. The award acknowledges the craftsmanship and creativity involved in preserving the spirit of these treasured spaces while making them more functional and at the same time, enticing
How to Enter
Entries will be evaluated by a distinguished panel of experts, chaired by RIBAJ contributing editor Chris Foges. The jury includes:
- Richard Williams, Senior Architectual Development Manager at VELUX
- Percy Weston, Co-founder of Surman Weston, whose Peckham House is shortlisted for the 2024 RIBA House of the Year Award
- Deniz Beck, Conservation Architect and Founder of Deniz Beck Partners
- Gianni Botsford, Director of Gianni Botsford Architects
The Daylight from Above Awards celebrate the art and science of designing with natural light, inspiring future innovations in architecture. Stay tuned for further details on how to submit your project.
Prize-winners in each category will receive £5000, commended entries will be awarded £1000, and all shortlisted entries will be published in the RIBAJ.
About the VELUX Group
VELUX roof windows have been bringing daylight and fresh air into peoples’ homes around the world for more than 80 years, creating better living environments. We offer a range of products including roof windows and modular skylights, decorative blinds, sun screening products, and roller shutters, as well as installation and smart home solutions. They help create bright, healthy, and energy-efficient places for people who live, work, learn, and play under the roof. We work globally – with sales and manufacturing operations in 37 countries and around 11,700 employees worldwide. The VELUX Group is owned by VKR Holding A/S, a limited company wholly owned by non-profit, charitable foundations (THE VELUX FOUNDATIONS) and family. In 2022, the VELUX Group had a total revenue of EUR 2.99 billion, VKR Holding had a total revenue of EUR 4.29 billion, and THE VELUX FOUNDATIONS donated EUR 181 million in charitable grants.
For more information about the VELUX Group, visit velux.com