Orchids & Onions

Orchid or Onion? You Help Decide.

Ever ask yourself why a place becomes a favorite spot that people return to time and again to make memories that last a lifetime? Or what makes San Diego “San Diego”? Why is our city so special, and could it be even more special? And what about the future of our downtown, the waterfront, the parks, the neighborhoods we call home?

To answer these questions, we turn to you—yes you! SDAF’s Orchids & Onions program brings San Diegans together to decide which parts of the built environment—be it building, park or plaza—make our city a better place to live. Each year brings in a whole new crop of projects, spaces and places to consider, nominate, comment on and vote into fame or infamy. Do YOU know a project that deserves an award? 

Nominations are Open!

Nominations for Orchids & Onions only come around once a year, and that time…is now! This annual people’s choice awards for the best and worst in San Diego design is SDAF’s most popular program for a reason — you’re behind it.

So check out the latest nominees and then get out of the house and look around for yourself! If you see a project you deem worthy of an Orchid or Onion this year, submit your nomination now. This is your chance to chime in. We can’t wait to see your selections!