Canadian Design and Construction Report staff writer
The Canadian Home Builders’ Association (CHBA) has released the list of finalists for the 2026 CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence, identifying the top projects in new homes, renovations, community development, and residential marketing from across the country.
The 2026 edition features a diverse array of finalists ranging from entry-level homes to high-end custom builds and net-zero projects.
“The CHBA National Awards for Housing Excellence is Canada’s premiere competition for new homes, home renovations, community development, and residential marketing,” the association stated in its March 19 announcement.
Ontario-based builders and developers secured a strong presence among this year’s finalists. Notable entries from the province include Toronto’s Alair Homes for Best Kitchen Renovation (Over $100,000), Branthaven Homes of Burlington for several marketing and rendering categories for its “Canvas Hill” project, and Treasure Hill of Vaughan for multiple marketing and model suite awards.
In the Ottawa region, finalists include Lagois Design-Build-Renovate for both the “Heart of the Mountain” and “Perfecting the Art of Living” projects, as well as Glenview Homes and TRUEdotDESIGN for their digital campaign for “Union West.”
The competition categories are divided into several key areas:
- New home awards: Including detached and attached homes, mid- to high-rise buildings, and entry-level categories.
- Home renovation awards: Recognizing excellence in kitchen, bathroom, and whole-home transformations across various price points.
- Net Zero home awards: Celebrating innovation in energy efficiency and sustainable building practices.
- Community development awards: Honoring both brand-new and established growing communities.
- Marketing awards: Highlighting excellence in branding, digital advertising, and sales office design.
The judging process for the 2026 awards was conducted in two online stages by a panel of industry experts from across Canada. Judges assessed entries based on design, innovation, functionality, and special features. For renovation categories, particular emphasis was placed on how builders integrated new work with existing structures and addressed specific site challenges.
The winners will be crowned on May 8, during the “Glitter & Groove” Awards Gala, presented by LG. The event is a centerpiece of CHBA’s Home Building Week in Canada, which will be held this year in Quebec City from May 4 to May 8.
The full list of finalists is available on the CHBA website.
