For decades, design competitions have been an integral component of Canadian architectural practice. Unlike traditional responses to requests for proposals — which typically only focus on prior work experience and low fees — competition entries can allow architects to push the boundaries of design, leading to new and exciting concepts.

However, just as the red tape of procurement can be frustrating for design firms, competitions are laden with potential complications in their own right.

Let’s start with the downsides; design competitions are expensive and can drain the resources of an archictecture firm. For major competitions, some cost estimates range as high as $150,000 in lost billable time and resources. Most will consume about $50,000 from a business that already runs on exceptionally tight margins. 

So why would anyone want to enter a competition? Besides elevating the profile of a firm with national or international recognition, the greatest value of participating in the competition process comes from the opportunity to design important cultural markers such as libraries, theatres, civic centres, and monuments. Competitions have the potential to be vital platforms for engaging the public and user groups in the architectural process. They can raise awareness about the importance of good design in public spaces and the built environment, fostering a sense of community involvement.