A new design competition launched by the Australian Institute of Architects’ ACT Chapter invites high school and college students to share their ideas for revitalising Garema Place in Canberra.

Running during the Design Canberra Festival from 21 – 29 November, the Archi-TEENS competition challenges these young designers to submit their ideas for built works and installations or events and activities that could activate the significant public space located in the heart of the city.

Entry to the competition is free and open to teams of up to five students. Monetary prizes up to $1000 are on offer for first, second and third prize winners in each category.

According to Competition Director Janet Thomson, cities present the forum for people to work, meet, shop, live, share ideas, trade and relax, and public spaces provide the settings that support these activities. Garema Place, as part of City Walk in the Canberra City Centre, has historically been central to the public life of the city, but in recent times, much of the active life of the city has shifted elsewhere.

She explained that the competition will draw upon the talents of Canberra’s high school and college students, recognising young people as important and active contributors to design outcomes in urban and public spaces.

There will be a public exhibition of all entries at Shopfront X2 in Garema Place on Saturday 28 and Sunday 29 November where members of the public will have the chance to vote for their favourite entry in the People’s Choice Award.

An awards ceremony will be held in Garema Place on Sunday 29 November at 12:30pm where the jury will announce the winners.

Registration for the competition closes on Friday 20 November.

Archi-TEENS is run in partnership with the University of Canberra and Canberra CBD Ltd.

Architecture & Design Team

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