The 19th edition of Construction World Architects and Builders (CWAB) Awards, based on the theme of Five Elements of Nature [Earth, Water, Fire, Air and Space] was organised by CONSTRUCTION WORLD magazine and First Construction Council [FCC] at Hotel Sahara Star in Mumbai.  CWAB METHODOLOGY Every year after a meticulous process, the CWAB awards recognise and award excellence. In the past few years the model morphed from a perception-based survey into a nomination-based one with shortlisted entries being presented to the jury. However, this year it reverted to the perception-based model. All shortlisted nominees were vetted by a jury. In view of this year’s theme [Five Elements of Nature] integration of Natural Elements into architectural design influences a building's ability to harmonise with its surroundings, fostering longevity and environmental consciousness. These factors carried special weightage in the final selection. Similarly, the Noteworthy Projects category invited entries in categories of: Residential (individual and building); Commercial; Hospitality; Retail; Institutional and Interiors which were judged by another jury and the winners were awarded at CWAB.BYTE BY BYTEWelcoming the dignitaries, Pratap Padode, Founder and Editor-in-Chief, ASAPP Media said, “For 26 years we reported through magazines which are circulated around 800 cities in India and our website now reaches over 600,000 unique visitors every month and its growing. We not only cover construction but equipment and cement. So we are actually circling the whole lot of infrastructure.”  Reciprocating to the warm welcome, Bhushan Gagrani, Muncipal Commissioner, Mumbai, the Special Guest of Honour said, “First of all, let me compliment the winners as well as Pratap Padode and his team. It is recognition and a token of appreciation on behalf of entire society towards what you are contributing. So we are creating a different India and we are all a part of it.”  Other dignitaries and esteemed industry leaders too voiced similar viewpoints about the awards. Praising CW for its impact on the sector, “We are honoured to be associated with CWAB and proud to be part of India’s growth story, said Sebi Joseph, President, Otis India at Otis Elevator Co. Underscoring its invaluable role in connecting contractors, consultants, government officials, business partners, developers and project management professionals from across the industry, Jairam Panch, Managing Director, Turner International, referred to CWAB as the ‘Oscars of Construction Awards’. Adding a feather to its cap, “CWAB awards are one of the foremost in this category in our country; it has set itself apart in terms of its prestige and in terms of its selection process,” said Dikshu Kukreja, Managing Principal, CP Kukreja Architects, noting the prestige of the awards.Similarly, while commending the event’s dedication to honouring significant work as ‘a fantastic effort to honour a body of work’ and its thematic focus in recognising excellence, Ayan Sen, Principal Architect, Ayan Sen Architects, added, “This year's theme—five elements of nature— makes a lot of sense.”About its Green role, “CWAB is a wonderful platform that appreciates issues of sustainability and applauds the winners for it,” said Deependra Prashad, Deependra Prashad Architects and Planners. And expressing admiration, “The kind of contribution that CWAB is making to the architecture fraternity is quite amazing!” said Sreenath Vinayakumar, Co-Founder, Architecture Dialogue.Finally, “CONSTRUCTION WORLD has always set the bar very, very high, whether in its publications or at these awards,” said Pradyumna Krishnakumar, Executive Director, Brigade Group adding, “It’s a tough act to follow.” All these industry leaders highlighted the various elements of CWAB but they were unanimous about its invaluable contribution to the sector as a whole.Moment of GlorySumming up, “Our architects, developers and vendors over the years have gone through different cycles of investment. But today we see a moment of glory,” said Pratap Padode and added, “A lot of thoughts that people deliberated upon at our awards events are finally coming to fruition. We’ve got funding and young talent trained by the best from across the country, resulting in noteworthy projects. And the greatest thing that the country today offers us is the opportunity to make a mark and that's why we are here to celebrate those who are making a mark. This evening, is dedicated to you.”-R SRINIVASAN