The 2025 Indiana High School Architectural Design Competition is officially open, AIA Indianapolis announced today. This year’s theme, "Igniting Change," challenges students to think critically about how the design of a building interacts with its environment and its community. The task: design a new fire station for a small historic downtown area.

Known as the “Architecture State Championship,” AIA Indianapolis has led this statewide competition since 1971 to inspire the next generation of architects. The program promotes the value of architecture and design, encourages young talent, and highlights the role that thoughtful design plays in building vibrant, functional communities.

“The Indiana High School Architectural Design Competition is a multi-dimensional program that engages students in creative problem-solving and architectural exploration,” said Brandon Farley, AIA, competition chair. “It’s an ideal challenge for anyone interested in art, architecture, drafting, or interior design. We know the talent is out there, and we look forward to seeing how our Hoosier students rise to the challenge.”

The three top winners will earn $1,000 in cash and scholarships. The student’s designs will be on display at the Indianapolis Artsgarden for two weeks leading up to the awards ceremony, which will be held at the Artsgarden on May 2at 8 p.m.

Student entries are due on March 28. The competition is open to all Indiana high school students and there are no fees to enter. Visit www.ihsadc.com to learn more.

The Indiana Chapter of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) is the voice of the architecture profession dedicated to advancing the profession, improving the built environment, educating the public about the importance of great design and advocating for safe, equitable, sustainable places and spaces within communities throughout the Hoosier state. AIA Indiana is a nonprofit organization created in 1892, that represents nearly 900 registered and associate architects, and affiliated design professionals.