Rose Award Categories and Guidelines

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Exceptional Focus on Landscaping

The landscaping improved quality curb appeal

by attention to detail, degree of difficulty, and overall appearance.

Community Value

The landscaping supports neighborhood beautification.

Guidelines  

• Degree of comprehensiveness or scope of design
• Selection and location of plant material
• Harmony of design with surroundings 
• Quality of plant materials and installation as well as their function within the environment. 
• Pruning of plant material
• Freedom from insect or disease damage
• Mulch or treatment of beds and planters
• Luster, color, and condition of trees and plantings

Creativity and Craftsmanship

The window display showcases outstanding creativity, craftsmanship, and impact in storefront window design.  

Community Value

The window display supports downtown economic development. 

Guidelines

• The display has a clear theme that ties all elements together.
• The theme is aligned with your brand, current events, seasons, or holidays.
• The theme incorporates unique, innovative ideas that stand out and grab attention.
• Visual appeal includes focal point, color harmony, lighting and balance.
• The display tells a story that connects with your audience emotionally.
• Branding is subtle. Any text is legible.
• The display includes interactive elements, unique materials and trendy features.

Preservation and Restoration

The project demonstrates excellence in the preservation, restoration, and promotion of historic structures, sites, and cultural heritage.  

Community Value

The project supports downtown economic development. 

Guidelines

• The project or individual must be associated with a historic site or initiative within the Fairfield Cultural District.
• For building or site-related projects, the structure or site must be at least 50 years old or meet local/state criteria for historic designation.
• The preservation work must be substantially completed within the last 3–5 years.
• The project must maintain or restore the site’s original character, materials, and design while adhering to established historic preservation guidelines (e.g., Secretary of the Interior’s Standards for the Treatment of Historic Properties).
• Demonstrates superior craftsmanship and attention to detail during restoration or preservation efforts.
• Where possible, original or period-appropriate materials were used in the project.
• Successfully integrates a new use for a historic site while preserving its historical integrity.
• Addresses and overcomes challenges such as structural issues, limited resources, or environmental factors in preserving historic value.
• Demonstrates how the project has positively impacted the surrounding community by revitalizing neighborhoods, boosting tourism, or enhancing cultural pride.
• The project or initiative raises awareness of historic preservation and educates the public about the significance of the site or cultural heritage.
• The site or project is accessible to the public (if applicable) or includes efforts to engage the community through tours, events, or interpretive materials.
• Effectively brings together individuals, organizations, or agencies to achieve preservation goals.
• Includes meaningful involvement of local community members or descendant communities in the preservation process.
• Demonstrates effective use of funds, including grants, donations, or other resources, to achieve project goals.
• Leverages a mix of private and public funding sources or innovative fundraising strategies.
• Advocates for the importance of historic preservation within the broader community or region.
• Shows leadership in inspiring others to undertake preservation initiatives or to care for historic sites.
• Enhances the beauty and integrity of the site or structure, making it a source of pride for the community.
• Maintains the historic site’s relationship with its surrounding environment, ensuring that additions or alterations harmonize with the original setting.