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This category focuses on built residence projects and its impact on inhabitants and the local environment.

Projects do not necessarily need to satisfy all of the criteria as listed below. 

Evaluation criteria include:

1. SITE SELECTION & CONTEXTUAL INTEGRATION
Projects will be assessed on how responsibly they approach their site and how effectively they integrate into their surrounding context:
- Minimising Environmental Impact: Does the project demonstrate sensitivity to its natural surroundings, by minimizing disruption to existing ecosystems, land disturbance and natural habitats?
- Local Resources: Does the project make use of local materials and labor, by reducing carbon emission from transportation, and supporting local economic resilience?
- Climate Responsiveness: How well does the project respond to the local climate in terms of orientation, passive design strategies, and overall environmental adaptation?

2. RESOURCE EFFICIENCY
Projects will be assessed on how effectively they conserve energy, water and materials throughout their lifecycle:
- Energy Performance: Does the project demonstrate significant reductions in energy consumption through efficient building envelopes, passive design strategies, integration of renewable energy sources and smart systems?
- Water Conservation: Does the project use water-saving measures in place, such as rainwater harvesting, and water-efficient fixtures and appliances?
- Material Selection: Does the project prioritize the use of environmentally responsible materials, such as high recycled content, rapidly renewable materials, low embodied carbon materials, and reducing material waste during the construction process?

3. HEALTH & WELL-BEING
- Indoors Environmental Quality: Does the project ensure good air quality, thermal comfort, acoustic performance, and access to natural light and views?
- Biophilia: Does the design incorporate elements that connect occupants with nature?
- Accessibility & Inclusivity: Is the design accessible to a wide range of users, taking into consideration diverse needs?

4. DURABILITY & ADAPTABILITY
Projects will be assessed based on their ability to remain functional, relevant and resource-efficient over time:  
- Longevity: Has the project been designed with a long-term perspective, using durable materials, and quality construction methods that extend its usable lifespan?
- Flexibility: Does the design adapt to accommodate future changes in use, reducing the need for future demolition and minimizing environmental impact over the building’s life cycle?  

5. COMMUNITY & SOCIAL IMPACT
Projects will be assessed based on their ability to support inclusive, resilient communities and contributes to broader social value:
- Affordability: Does the design support accessible and equitable housing solutions, without compromising quality and sustainability?
- Community Engagement: Does the project interact with the surrounding community and deliver tangible social benefits, such as shared spaces, local employment, or improved quality of life?