The Best in American Living awards are a national residential design competition sponsored by the National Association of Home Builders[1]
It is open to builders, architects, designers, remodelers, developers, land planners, and interior designers nationwide.
Beginning in 1983, the Best in American Living Awards, also referred to as 'BALA', have showcased the most creative and innovative builders, architects, remodelers, developers, land planners and interior designers in the nation. Categories ranging from homes built for sale, single family attached and multi-family homes built for sale, one-of-a-kind custom, one-of-a-kind spec homes, affordable housing, remodels, rental developments, Community Design, Smart Growth, Best Kitchen, Best Bath, Best Specialty Room, Best Detail and Best Amenity/Facility.
Judging is conducted by an expert panel of builders, design professionals, marketing professionals and land planners. For the home categories, judging criteria include: site plan, exterior design/curb appeal, interior architecture and design, construction quality and cost efficiency and product sales success. Judges may designate Platinum, Gold, and Silver awards in all categories. One winner will be designated from each of the nine regions to receive a best in Region Award as well as three additional national awards to the Home of the Year, Room of the Year and Community of the Year.
Winners will be honored at the NAHB Annual International Builders Show and featured in Nation's Building News Online.