Architectural Foundation of Santa Barbara

High School Design Competition

What It's All About

Every spring, there is an all-day design competition fashioned after the Architects Learning Exam held for Santa Barbara County High School Students. This program, started in 1991, introduces high school students to the world of architecture and the design process, through the frame of a fun learning experience.

This year, the 2025 High School Architectural Design Competition will take place on Tuesday, March 4th at two different Charrette locations.

The North County Charrette will be held at Allan Hancock College in Santa Maria, North County students can sign up here. 

The South County Charrette will be held at Direct Relief in Santa Barbara near Goleta, South County students can sign up here.  

Twelve Finalists will be selected to present their work before a panel of three Jurors on Saturday, March 8th. 

To sponsor this event, click here

More about this exciting competition can be found in the Program Resource Information materials below, or contact AFSB to learn more.

Winners and Finalists from past years can be found here

Video Tutorials

What Is Design?

The Introductions

From Program Challenges to Design Solutions

The Plot Plan

The Floor Plan

Elevation

Additional Drawings

Our annual 2018 High School Design Competition is rapidly approaching!

Find out more information and register here.

Design Charrette: March 13, Santa Ynez Valley High School
Hwy 246 & Refugio Rd, Old Gym

Finalist Juried Review:   March 17, The Alisal Guest Ranch and Resort
1054 Alisal Road, Solvang, CA 93463