Architecture+ Awards 2004 event to be held at Dubai Media City in November

Intended to reward international architects, landscapers, urban designers and planners, and students for their thematic contributions to 'Design for a New World', the Awards have received entries from several countries around the globe. The multi-tier judging process is currently underway, and will conclude in a mega event to honour winners and bring industry chieftains together.

Rashid Taqui, CEO of Inhouse Creative and Publisher of Architecture+ magazine, organisers of the event, announced that the second edition of the annual award would be held at Dubai Media City, on November 23, 2004 as the culmination of a six-month activity conducted across the world. "As befitting the nature of a truly international event held in the city of Dubai, the Awards Ceremony will reflect the true spirit of our city - it will be original, unique and vibrant. A total of ten individuals will be honoured during the spectacular ceremony and gala dinner," he stated. The Awards Ceremony, preceded and followed by unique entertainment and a gala dinner will serve as an important platform for architects, designers, developers, contractors, government professionals and VIPs from across the world to interact, network, and foster industry dialogue, with Dubai as their focal point," he said.

Taqui also commented on the overwhelming response to the Awards, since it was first announced in March, earlier this year.

"When we invited global participation to the Awards, we had no idea that it would evict such a phenomenal response. The Awards were originally designed as an extension of our magazine and meant to encourage architects, designers and students in finding solutions appropriate to the problems of our region.

"Overnight, it has turned into a platform that allows exceptional performance among them to be rewarded and recognised," he stated. He confirmed that a total of 170 entries from around the world had been received, accepted and submitted to the judges for their consideration. The jury comprises internationally acclaimed and recognised architects from prestigious architectural associations and practices who are in the process of judging the entries submitted for the event. In November, a panel of these members will convene in Dubai to choose the final winners of the Architecture+ Awards 2004.

The submissions are being evaluated for performance against design brief, optimisation of design opportunities and sensitivity to sustainable development, with emphasis on projects accomplished in the New World - a creative reference to emerging countries in the Third World. Major entries to the Awards will be exhibited at the Big 5 Show, also to be held in Dubai in during the same week, with an annual footfall of approximately 30,000 professional visitors.

"A secondary highlight of the 2004 Awards is the launch of the 'Architecture+ Aspiring Architect Award' for students," Taqui added. "With a cash prize of US$ 10,000, it is deemed one of the largest monetary prizes for students of architecture and design around the world." The first Aspiring Architect Award is being collectively sponsored by a representation of the Dubai government in the form of The Executive Office (TEO) and Architecture+ magazine.