Sponsor: Lawrence Technological University, Detroit

Type: Open, international, one-stage

Eligibility: Professionals and students

Fee: none

Location: Detroit (other sites available)

Design challenge:

PIDPR (Public Interest Design Practices and Research) aims to expand the discipline of architecture by challenging the traditional definition and boundaries of the architectural profession, and by exploring alternative design practices. Through the application of public interest design practice, collaboration with local stakeholders and digital networking to engage a worldwide audience, [gDx]³ proposes an alternative practice model to fully articulate public interest design and research. [gDx]³, through the PIDPR Competition, is seeking design projects that explore new and innovative ways of practicing architecture to empower and assist disadvantaged groups around the world.

Competition goals:

(1)Challenge the traditional definition of architecture,

(2)Explore ways in which the boundaries of architecture profession can be expanded to have a renewed sense of purpose in architecture, and to meet the demand of our future generations of architects,

(3)Educate students and others about how to expand the architectural profession and create new opportunities in architecture,

(4)Promote applied research on values, benefits, theories, and principles of PIDPR, as well as application of PIDPR in practice,

(5)Explore innovative and meaningful civic engagement, and

(6)Help and empower organizations and communities who are in need.

For more information, go to:

http://ltu.edu/gdx3