The Home Improvement Awards Program was established in 1994 to recognize those residents of San Jose, such as yourself, who have not only shown an interest in how San Jose looks, but
have done something about it by improving the outside of their property as seen from the street.
Who May Enter?
Any renter or owner of a residential or commercial property within the city limits of San Jose can nominate
themselves. If you would like to submit an application for someone other than yourself, please enter under the "Nominate Your Neighbor" category. Any person from a San Jose neighborhood group can enter a community project under the
"Neighborhood Improvement" category.
Is There a Fee?
No. The effort you have already put in is "fee" enough.
What are the Awards?
A City of San Jose plaque will be given to the top three winners in each of the
six categories, described on the next page. This beautiful plaque can be displayed on the front of residence or business. All nominees will receive a certificate in appreciation for the efforts they have made.
What is the Schedule?
Applications must be postmarked no later than the date that is indicated at the top of the enclosed application forms.
How Do I Apply?
Use the appropriate application form for the category in
which you would like to enter. Please enter in one category only.
What are the Award Categories?
- Landscape Improvement
This category focuses on the front yard and any landscaping improvements that have been made. We are especially interested in recognizing people who have not only beautified their yard, but have
done so in a way that is friendly to the environment. The judging will emphasize the overall look, environmental considerations, long-term maintenance and seasonal changes.
Structural Improvement
This category focuses on the fixer-uppers on which significant structural improvements have been made. The changes do not have to be major ones. Special consideration will be given to those who
did the work themselves. A significant level of hard work and effort is more important than the money spent. The judging will emphasize what obstacles were overcome, how the improvements were made, who did them and whether
or not the improvements inspired others to make changes to their own property.
Historic Structure Improvement
This category is for those who have appropriately restored, renovated or retained the original architectural character/style of the front exterior of their home. Homes should be at
least 50 years old. Judging will emphasize what obstacles were overcome, how the improvements were made, who did them and whether or not the improvements inspired others to make changes to their own property.
Commercial Improvement
This category includes all businesses, including apartment complexes and income properties, that have improved the overall look of the front of their property -- both the structure and
landscaping. Judging will emphasize those businesses that have been good neighbors and have positively impacted the adjacent community.
Neighborhood Improvement
This category is aimed at improvements done in San Jose neighborhoods, not just to one residence. The judging emphasis will be on the overall look of the area, the impact on the neighborhood,
how the improvements were made, the number of residents involved and the ability to maintain the area.
Nominate Your Neighbor
This category is self-explanatory -- "Nominate Your Neighbor" whether a business or residence, for their efforts in maintaining a beautiful property all year round. This is your chance to
reward that person who makes you proud to live in San Jose. The judging will emphasize the overall look of the front exterior and long term maintenance.
What Criteria Will Be Used
Overall, we will be looking at the outside appearance of the structure and its landscaping as seen from the street. The general criteria are:
- Overall Look
How does the property and landscaping look together? Is it attractive? Do they fit the general style of the neighborhood?
- Obstacles Overcome
Were there any unique characteristics or problems with the property that had to be handled? How involved was the owner in the design? What were the budget constraints? Did the design take
environmental issues into account, such as drought tolerant gardens?
- Doing the Work
How difficult was the job? Who did the work? Was any volunteer labor used? What materials were used? Were any recycled plants or materials used? Were the required building permits obtained?
- Maintenance
Is the property well maintained? Does it look nice all year round? How much maintenance is required? Who does it?
- Inspiration to Others
Have other nearby properties been improved as a result of this one?
- Continuing Improvement
Are improvements continually being made?
Who Will Do the Judging?
The judging committee is typically comprised of representatives from the following groups:
- San Jose City Council
- Historical Landmarks Commission
- Victorian Preservation Association
- City of San Jose Neighborhood Association
- Project Crackdown
- San Jose Mercury News
- City of San Jose Business Association
- San Jose Beautiful Steering Committee
