Register for the VKG Architecture Prize 2025

Inspire with creative and sustainable use of plastic window frames

Entry for the VKG Architecture Prize 2025 is open. For the fourteenth time this year, the professional award celebrates progressive building projects where aesthetics, function and sustainability come together, underlined by innovative use of plastic window frames. Edwin van Houten, branch manager at VKG, explains the preconditions a project must meet to have a chance of eternal glory. The VKG Architecture Award 2025 will be presented during the Climate Summit GO at the end of October in Jaarbeurs Utrecht.

The tightness in the housing market is increasing demand for affordable low-maintenance new construction. At the same time, the desire for broad application of circularity places new demands on architectural solutions. The VKG Architecture Award is a biennial recognition for architects and clients who dare to lead the way in the use of innovative materials and applications with the aim of making a social contribution to sustainability and livability. With the professional award, VKG draws attention to the plastic window frame as a logical, sustainable option for window frame material within these tasks. 

"An awful lot is possible with plastic window frames, not only in terms of color or appearance such as a wood-look joint or high insulation values, but also when it comes to, for example, recycling or window frames made from recycled materials," says Van Houten. "With the professional award we offer a stage for creative designs and show that a plastic window frame is a smart choice for all types of homes and utility buildings."

Additional exposure

Entries for the VKG Architecture Prize 2025 can be made from today via the industry association's website. "We nominate in two categories: new construction and renovation. One requirement is that there must be an architect associated with the project. Indeed, only architects can submit a project. If you are a facade builder, profile supplier or manufacturer involved in an inspiring project with plastic window frames, encourage the responsible architect to submit the project," Van Houten advises. 

"From all the entries, the jury will select a shortlist of six projects in early September to compete for the honorary title that will also enjoy additional exposure." 

Veldhuis residential care building in Apeldoorn was one of the nominees at the previous edition and shows how the plastic window frame enhances the architecture. From an aesthetic point of view, the jury was particularly charmed by the deep frame profile in combination with the staggered calves that provide the necessary playfulness in the austere design. And partly due to the high level of insulation, Veldhuis is the largest passive residential building in the Netherlands, as well as being fully Paris Proof.

Sharing knowledge

VKG organizes the architecture award together with the knowledge institute Duurzaam Gebouwd. "Attention to sustainability within the project is a precondition for claiming the title," says Van Houten. Furthermore, the jury judges on creativity in aesthetics and technology. The jury is formed by the two category winners of the previous edition - DOOR architects and Heren 5 - supplemented by Wietze Walinga of Duurzaam Gebouwd, Matijn van Leeuwen of NIBE and Albert Zegelaar, plastic window frame expert and director of VKG. They will present the professional award during the Klimaattop GO in Jaarbeurs Utrecht. 

"It is pre-eminently the place where knowledge is shared about sustainable developments in the built environment," said Van Houten. "We from VKG are also contributing to this two-day conference on October 29 and 30, 2025. We are physically present with a stand and will make the presentation of the professional award on Thursday, October 30, a festive moment."

Participating in the VKG Architecture Prize 2025 is easy. Register the project via the entry form on the VKG website and stand a chance of eternal glory. The prize winners not only receive a beautiful award, but also exposure in national trade media.