Projects must be improvements or additions to an existing structure and cannot have been entered in a previous NARI Milwaukee Remodeler of the Year competition. New construction is not eligible unless specifically allowed within a category. 

Yes! The general contractor can submit the project and include other NARI member companies that contributed to the project as Team Members. Team entries are $95 per participating team member. 

If multiple NARI member companies contributed to the same remodeling project, the company with overall oversight and supervisory responsibility should submit the project as the main entrant. Other NARI member companies that worked on the project can then be included as Team Members for $95 per team member.

Team entries are a great way to recognize the collaboration behind a successful remodel — from contractors and designers to suppliers and specialty partners — while giving more of the project team an opportunity to share in the recognition if the project wins.

Spotlight the whole team. Great remodeling projects are rarely a one-company effort. If NARI member partners helped bring your project to life, include them on your entry so their contribution can be recognized too.

A complete remodeling entry includes:

• A judging presentation in PDF format, up to 30 pages and 20 MB
• Before and after project photography
• At least 10 promotional images
• A project summary of 100 words or less
• Required client/contractor and photographer release forms
• Supplier and contractor information
• Entry payment

Think of the presentation as the story of your project. Judges should clearly understand the client’s needs, challenges, transformation, functionality, design, craftsmanship and innovative solutions. Include before-and-after photography, drawings where helpful, descriptions and captions that explain details the photos alone may not communicate.

Judging is anonymous. Company names, employee names, client names or other identifying information cannot appear anywhere in the judging presentation. That includes job signs, branded clothing, plans, blueprints and other materials shown in photos. Including identifying information can result in disqualification.

RotY winners are announced at the Awards Gala in January 2027. Winning projects receive ongoing exposure through NARI Milwaukee, including opportunities to be featured in Renovate magazine, social media, media outreach, events, the Spring Home Improvement Show and other promotional efforts. Winners may also have the option to submit their project to the NARI National RotY Awards.