Architectural Competitions in Kurdistan

written by: Rawand Abdullah Amin

Architectural competition is just as vital as any other topic in Kurdistan, which is why I felt it was important to feature it in this special magazine. However, before diving into this subject, it's important to recognize that our architectural community in Kurdistan has long awaited such a magazine. This publication will help raise awareness and engage the minds of our architects. Therefore, I'd like to express my gratitude to all those involved in making this magazine possible. Certainly, being entrusted with writing an article for this magazine is a significant responsibility, and I aim to fulfill it to the best of my ability. Before delving further, it's important to provide a brief definition of architectural competition. Architectural competition is a method wherein organizers or clients invite architects to submit their designs based on specific conditions they've outlined. In recent years, architectural competitions have been held in Kurdistan, albeit not always meeting the standards and principles expected. This can be attributed to various factors, including insufficient information on conducting competitions and a lack of experts to evaluate projects and select the most suitable design. Addressing these issues is crucial, whether within educational institutions, architecture departments at universities, or in the professional sphere. It's essential to ensure there's adequate training and support for architects and employers alike to conduct competitions effectively and fairly. For architecture students, participating in architectural competitions offers valuable opportunities for growth. It allows them to broaden their knowledge by engaging with various projects and fosters teamwork skills, especially in group projects. Furthermore, exposure to both domestic and international markets helps students strengthen their portfolios and prepares them for future professional endeavors. Winner of the 2022 Architectural Painting Competition If we talk about the importance of architectural competitions for architects who have their own offices and participate in these competitions, it becomes clear that such engagements can significantly enhance their recognition in the industry. Through these competitions, architects can gain global visibility. Therefore, if competitions are crucial for students and practicing architects, they are equally important for employers (investors) in several ways. One of the main benefits for investors is that they get to see multiple design proposals for their projects and can choose the one that best meets their requirements. Typically, these projects are evaluated by a special committee, most of whom are often architects. It is worth mentioning that at Partner Studio, we have participated in several architectural competitions both locally and internationally. Finally, I would like to emphasize that architectural competitions serve as a powerful incentive to elevate the level of architectural culture for both students in university and architects in the labor market. This is particularly true for government and relevant authorities. When the government pays attention to architectural competitions for each project, it leads to greater familiarity with various architectural ideas. This is because government-owned projects are publicized and exposed through public media, building a wider appreciation and understanding of architectural innovation. The Unbuilt Award 2024 stands as a grand celebration of architectural creativity and innovation, dedicated to honoring the brilliance of unrealized designs. It recognizes the profound value embedded within the creative process, celebrating ideas and visions that, while not brought to life, embody the spirit of architectural exploration and ingenuity. This competition celebrates the creative journey of architects and designers, providing a stage for the ideas that push boundaries and shape the future.