February 13, 2017

In Fall 2016, the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS) and sponsor Fairway Market partnered to launch the “Archsgiving” competition. Through hand-sketches, 3D modeling, or other medium, participants were asked to submit renderings of a retail window display concept that uses actual food products to mimic an architectural masterpiece to compete for prizes totaling $3,000.

Together with Fairway Market, the AIAS is pleased to announce the winners of the “Archsgiving” competition:

  • $1,500 First Prize: Emilia Pinto – University of Hartford
    • Reasoning:
      1. Creative and comprehensive use of food – implementing fresh produce, canned foods, bread, meat, and prepared foods.
      2. Architectural elements – using a variety of building types in order to create a skyline effect.
      3. Practicality – could be implemented immediately by Fairway Market.
  • $1000 Second Prize: Caitlin Kessler – University of Arizona
    • Reasoning:
      1. Smart, creative and purposeful use of food.
      2. Reference to NYC, the home of Fairway Market.
      3. Practicality – could be implemented immediately by Fairway Market.
  • $500 3rd Prize: Nick McGee – Wentworth Institute of Technology
    • Reasoning:
      1. Fantastic representation of famous architecture.
      2. Practicality – could be implemented immediately by Fairway Market.
      3. Whimsical and humorous design.

Deana Moore, Vice President of Marketing at Fairway Market, said “We really enjoyed seeing the creativity from all across the country on the many different perspectives for how food and architecture can become a beautiful display for all of NYC to enjoy. Some were more about the food, some were more about the architecture – and some were punny! Thanks to all who spent time and energy on thinking about how the two worlds could become art.”

The AIAS and Fairway Market will be launching a “Future of Grocery Store Design” competition later this spring.