Entries open for 2016 Architecture Commission Design Competition

Summer Architecture Commission by John Wardle at NGV International photo by John GollingsThe National Gallery of Victoria is calling for submissions from Australian architects and designers for the 2016 Architecture Commission Design Competition.

This new annual contest aims to develop evocative and thought-provoking works of temporary architecture for one of Melbourne’s great civic spaces, the Grollo Equiset Garden at NGV International. Competitors are encouraged to offer a unique response to the site, explore new propositions about architecture and design, and demonstrate innovation in material use, fabrication, sustainability and recyclability.

“Design and architecture can enrich culture and society and we look forward to seeing the innovative and inspiring entries over the months ahead,” said Tony Ellwood, Director NGV. “The Architecture Commission Design Competition could take many forms; a pavilion of shade and retreat, a place for play or reflection, or a venue to share food, perform or gather.”

The 2016 Architecture Commission Design Competition will be held in two stages. Stage One calls for high level design proposals, of which up to five will be chosen to receive an honorarium and proceed to Stage Two. The final winner will be announced in April 2016.

The Competition Jury will feature leading voices in the Australian architecture community: Corbett Lyon, Director, Lyons Architecture (VIC); Rachel Neeson, Director, Neeson Murcutt Architects (NSW); Emma Williamson, Practice Director, CODA (WA); and Fleur Watson, Curator, RMIT Design Hub (VIC). Andrew Mackenzie of City Lab will act as competition advisor, working with the NGV and the Australian Institute of Architects to ensure industry-best standards for the competitive process.

The NGV Architecture Commission Design Competition process is developed and delivered by City Lab. The NGV Department of Contemporary Design and Architecture is generously supported by the Hugh D. T. Williamson Foundation.

Led by the Department of Contemporary Design and Architecture, the inaugural Architecture Commission was presented in 2015 by John Wardle Architects, who designed an exuberant pavilion of steel, timber and hand-formed textile elements. Taking inspiration from the Sidney Myer Music Bowl, the pavilion lifts dramatically on high arches to form an open-sided, shaded space.

Registrations for the 2016 Architecture Commission Design Competition are now open, with entries closing 25 January 2016. For more information, visit: www.citylab.com.au for details.

Image: The 2015 Summer Architecture Commission by John Wardle at NGV International – photo by John Gollings