Tips for a Strong BRICC Awards Submission: A Guide for Cape Cod Builders
For any Cape Cod builder, earning recognition through the BRICC Awards is a meaningful way to showcase craftsmanship, design innovation, and dedication to client satisfaction. These prestigious awards celebrate excellence in the building industry throughout Cape Cod and the Islands—making them a valuable marketing and credibility tool for builders, architects, and design-build firms alike.
If you're planning to submit a project to the upcoming BRICC Awards, here are expert tips to help your entry stand out from the crowd.
1. Lead With High-Quality Photography
In a visual competition, photos can make or break your submission. Since judges won't visit the property in person, your project imagery must do all the talking. Invest in professional photography that highlights both the overall layout and the intricate design details. Lighting, composition, and clarity are key—especially for projects that showcase fine craftsmanship or complex material use.
If you're a Cape Cod builder known for coastal elegance, make sure your photography reflects that signature style.
2. Tell the Story Behind the Build
Every project has a story—don't be afraid to tell yours. Use your submission to walk the judges through the client's vision, unique challenges, and creative solutions your team delivered. Whether it was overcoming zoning restrictions, preserving historical features, or integrating energy-efficient systems, clearly demonstrate how your team brought the project to life.
This narrative not only provides context but also sets your work apart from others that may be visually appealing but lack depth or purpose.
3. Highlight the Technical Excellence
The BRICC Awards judges aren't just design enthusiasts—they're industry professionals who understand construction complexity. Be sure to include technical details that demonstrate the quality and innovation of your project.
This might include:
- Structural solutions used in a challenging site
- Advanced insulation or HVAC integration
- Custom cabinetry or millwork
- Unique material selections or green building techniques
Technical details show that you're more than just a creative builder—you're also a highly skilled professional.
4. Consider a Dual Submission
If your project was a collaboration between a builder and an architect, interior designer, or landscape professional, consider submitting as a team. Joint submissions are encouraged, reflecting the reality that great projects are often the result of strong partnerships. Plus, it increases the visibility of everyone involved and can strengthen your brand as a collaborative, results-driven firm.
5. Think Like a Judge
Before hitting "submit," step into the judges' shoes. Review your materials with a critical eye: Is the submission clear, cohesive, and compelling? Are your project strengths front and center? Does your entry follow all formatting guidelines? Remember, judges review dozens of entries—yours needs to be polished and professional to stand out.
Tip: Have someone outside your team (who isn't emotionally invested in the project) review your submission to ensure it's clear and impactful.
6. Showcase How You Delivered the Client's Vision
One of the most significant indicators of a successful project is how well it meets or exceeds the client's expectations. Use your entry to demonstrate how your team listened, collaborated, and customized the result to reflect the client's lifestyle and goals. If you have a testimonial or quote from the homeowner, that's a powerful touch that adds authenticity and heart.
7. Keep It Clear and Concise
While it's tempting to include every detail, strong writing is about clarity, not complexity. Avoid industry jargon and focus on what matters: What challenge did you solve? What made the process unique? What makes the result award-worthy? Stick to the facts, support your claims with visuals and technical details, and organize your content so it flows easily.
Why It Matters for Cape Cod Builders
Participating in the BRICC Awards is more than just a trophy—it's an opportunity to:
- Elevate your brand across the Cape Cod region
- Earn recognition among peers and potential clients
- Build trust through third-party validation
- Stand out in a competitive market of luxury home builders
If you're a Cape Cod builder looking to gain credibility, attract high-end clients, or celebrate your team's hard work, a well-crafted BRICC Awards submission is a wise investment.
Ready to Enter?
Click HERE to explore categories, review criteria, and begin your submission process.
Final Thoughts
The BRICC Awards are one of the most respected building awards on the Cape. By combining beautiful visuals, technical detail, and a strong story, your entry will have the power to impress judges and elevate your firm's reputation in the region.
Whether you're a seasoned Cape Cod builder or a rising design-build team, now is the time to put your best project forward. Recognition—and new opportunity—could be just one submission away.