Although competitions are fraught with their own issues, our profession is indelibly linked to them. Competitions have been pushing the profession forward for centuries, encouraging innovation, creativity and inspiring many. They have given emerging professionals their “big break” (think Maya Lin) and have showered the world with many important, game-changing masterpieces (Rolex Learning Center, Pompidou Center, Brunelleschi’s dome, the Acropolis…). As expected, the end result of a competition typically dominates the conversation; however, it is interesting to discuss process of competition making.
SOLID architecture is a firm that relies heavily on competitions, as they have received most of their commissions by winning a competition. They have shared with us their top ten ideas and observations on the process of competition making in hopes that it will spark a dialogue on the topic. As you can see above, the first on their list is “change the medium”. Continue reading after the break to review the complete list and join the conversation.
1. Change the medium
2. Think of solutions that won`t come to your mind (but somebody else’s maybe)
3. Invite guest critics (others than your colleagues and friends)
4. Make a dummy of the layout and the presentation
5. Design your layout for various distances
6. Design stops 3 days before the deadline
7. Competition results can be predicted (at least a little)
8. Review your projects twice, before and after you know the result of the competition
9. Making one competition (most often) is not enough
10. Your lucky number
All images were taken by SOLID architecture, in their office. For more, check out their website here.
