Taking the lessons learned from the strip mall designs of the 1980's and the more recent design principles promoted by community planners, cities have developed small pedestrian centers within the city that specialize in entertainment venues for adults. With a collection of restaurants, bookstores, theaters, coffee shops and small retail spaces, these entertainment centers create a small community within the whole of the larger city.

The exterior design and materials of these centers is very important due to the need to attract patrons and serve as a vibrant and visually interesting destination. Modern finishes, bright colors, cleanable surfaces and durable materials are the mainstays for these designs. Trespa panels are an ideal material both to meet the needs of the project and to allow for the design of a creative and engaging space.

Sponsored by Trespa International and administered by the American Institute of Architecture Students (AIAS), the program challenges students to learn about building materials, specifically architectural wall panels and systems in the design of an engaging and sustainable City Entertainment Center. The competition is open to any design student in North America. Total prize money is $7,675, including $2,500 for the first place winning design.

The objectives of this competition are:

• To research, respond to and highlight the unique aspects of designing an outdoor urban space that serves the selected site and community
• To build knowledge about materials, products, and installation (primarily Trespa^® products as an innovative solution for decorative and structural needs)
• To encourage the use of sustainable and universal design principles for development of both the building and the selected site*
• To design a facility that looks to the population, cultural and service needs of the selected community both now and into the future
• To introduce aspects of urban and large scale design challenges to architecture and design students

The designer (or team) may select a site from any metropolitan area in North America. The selected site must:

• be within a city that has a population greater than 25,000
• be connected to the city through some form of public transportation
• contain a minimum of two blocks in one direction (must contain a corner condition)
• be located in an neighborhood that would benefit from the new project and the added revenue
• not propose the demolition of any significant/occupied building to make space for the new development

Requests to disregard any of these requirements may be granted on a case by case basis. Any and all requests must be made to the AIAS prior to registration for the competition.

*The AIAS does not support or endorse specific credentialing programs in the determination of a buildings level of sustainability.

Contact the AIAS Office to find out more about the competition or learn how you can sponsor your own student design competition.

1735 New York Avenue, NW
Washington, DC 20006

T 202.626.7472

F 202.626.7414

competitions@aias.org

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