World Architecture Festival 2025: First time in the USA with the theme "Hearts and Minds"

The world's largest architecture festival, World Architecture Festival (WAF), will hold its 17th edition from November 12th to 14th, 2025 in Miami Beach Convention Center in Miami, Florida. This is the first time that WAF is held in the United States of America, which further confirms the global importance of this event.

Theme 2025: "Hearts and Minds"

The theme of this year's festival, “Hearts and Minds”, explores how architecture works as a fusion of rational design and emotional experience. Through a series of lectures and panel discussions, it will discuss how architecture engages perception, memory and feelings, and how design can influence the emotional experience of the user.parametric-architecture.com+6designinglighting.com+6archdaily.com+6archdaily.com

Program and activities

During the three days of the festival, visitors will have the opportunity to participate in various activities:

• Live ratings: The finalists will present their projects live in front of an international jury, which enables a transparent and dynamic evaluation of the works.
• Lectures and panel discussions: Experts from different fields of architecture and design will discuss the latest trends, challenges and innovations in the industry.
• Exhibitions and fairs: Introducing the latest products, materials and technologies relevant to architecture and interior design.
• Fringe events: Informal meetings and workshops that enable networking and exchange of ideas among professionals.

Award categories

WAF Awards includes 45 categories, including:

• Completed facilities: Categories like Culture, Health care, Education, Residential buildings, Edit, Shops and Sport.
• Interiors: Interior design awards in various spaces, including Restaurants and bars, Educational institutions, Residential premises and Shops.
• Future projects: Categories for projects in the planning phase, including Residential projects, Infrastructure, Urban design and Health.

For more information on categories and applications, visit the festival's official website.

How to participate

Applications for WAF 2025 are open, and the deadline for project submissions is May 16, 2025. For registration and additional information, visit the festival's official website.

Conclusion

WAF 2025 in Miami is a unique opportunity for architects, designers and architecture enthusiasts to learn about the latest developments in the industry, engage in inspiring discussions and network with professionals from around the world. With the theme “Hearts and Minds”, the festival will explore the deep connection between architecture, emotions and the human experience, providing a comprehensive view of the future of design.