Why Pineapples? The fruit is a common symbol of welcome in UK architecture, which is what we think great places should be: welcoming. And who doesn’t want to win a golden pineapple?

 

What’s a place? It’s a mixed-use development or cluster of developments that create a neighbourhood, large or small. It may be a wholly new place or a redevelopment.

 

Who can enter? Anyone on behalf of the project, could be client, local authority, developer, architect, designer or any of project team, as long as they have permission and if needed, from the landowner for the judging visit, if not a place open to the public. 

 

How much is an entry? Early bird entries at £240 and standard rate £340, with all payments subject to VAT. If you would like to enter but require a free or discounted rate as a small charity, community group, engaged citizen or needing support, we welcome your participation. Please contact james@thedeveloper.live

 

Judging process The judging process is rigorous, and the entry criteria is focussed on the environmental and social impact of the project. Once shortlisted, built projects are visited and the shortlisted projects are presented live to the judges. But there’s also a lot of joy as we celebrate these projects and their teams, and share their story to a broad audience.

 

Live presentations All shortlisted projects are required to present their submission at the Festival of Pineapples on 24 - 26 February 2026. A major live online event, presenting to the judging panel and live online audience. The event audience is drawn from public sector, developers, investors, architects, designers, community groups and built environment professionals.

 

Categories Pineapples will be awarded for the best Place of the Year, Place in Progress, Future Place, Future Public Realm, International Future Place, Creative Retrofit, Community Engagement, Public Space, Activation, Climate Resilience, Infrastructure, Child-friendly places, Strategy, Healthy Homes, Community space and Building. You can download the full criteria, entry questions and requirements for all 16 categories. Please note that you will need to be logged in or register to download the document.

 

Entry Deadline: The 2026 programme will open for entries in late August 2025, final deadline 21 November 2025 (Early bird deadline 9 October). Shortlist announced January 2026, live judging at the Festival of Pineapples 24-26 February, and further key dates to be announced. 

 

Pineapples Prize Giving Party A party and celebration of the best in place, where the winners grabbed their Golden Pineapples! April 2026

 

Free or discounted entries available on enquiry

 

Contact the team we hear to help with any questions. Please contact James on 020 3326 7238 or james@thedeveloper.live