ASPIRING architects are being invited to pitch their creative concepts for the temporary use of a vacant site in Belfast city centre.
It is part of an initiative aimed at giving budding designers the opportunity to provide their vision of how an area of unused space on the corner of Royal Avenue and North Street could be developed.
The 'Storylines Design Competition' is offering the winning architect or team of architects, a budget of up to £120,000 (including up to £30,000 professional fees), a mentorship and the chance to see their concept become a reality at the site by December 2022.
It aims to provide "an important platform for early career architects to showcase their talent and to establish themselves in the city by taking forward their winning design in partnership with Belfast City Council".
Competition organisers, the Royal Society of Ulster Architects (RSUA), Belfast City Council and JP Corry are asking architects to pitch their vision of how the unused space could be made playful for people of all ages, incorporating pockets of nature and creating new social meeting places.
The vacant site is the location for the £100m Belfast Stories development, which forms part of the city council's tourism and regeneration plans.
Ryan Murphy from Belfast City Council said it is a "fantastic opportunity for early career architects – they could see their design become a reality and help animate our landmark Belfast Stories site prior to construction, due to commence in 2025".
RSUA director Ciarán Fox said: "Architecture and urban design must play an important role in helping to respond to the major challenges facing our city and town centres.
"So we want to see concepts that reflect Belfast’s Bolder Vision, demonstrate that our city centre is open and welcoming for socialising, for business and for visitors."
For more information visit www.belfastcity.gov.uk/storylines
