Shelter Global Announces Winners of International Urban Density and Architecture Competition
Chicago, IL (PRWEB) July 14, 2015 -- Shelter Global, an international architecture non-profit, has just announced the winners of its 2015 Dencity Competition. The goal of the competition is to foster new ideas on how to handle the growing density of unplanned cities and to spread awareness of this massive problem. There are currently over 1 billion slum dwellers in the world. This number is expected to reach 2 billion by the year 2030. Now, more than ever, architects and planners need to play a central role in the development of substandard neighborhoods. Contestants were asked to consider how design can empower communities and allow for a self-sufficient future. The competition jury consisted of 8 renowned architects and urban planners.
First place was awarded to Robert Elkins, Riccardo Valsesia, and Lucia Fanetti Zamboni of OC Workshop. The entry imagines an innovative "slum factory" in a community in Rwanda that utilizes low-tech sustainability by finding a new application for the production of normally unused waste. The project follows the ideal that nothing is left behind, but instead everything can find a new use and purpose. Jury member Changfang Luo (Architecture in Development) states that the project, "Is a convincing solution that emphasizes the sense of ownership and solidarity for this particular community, which will ensure long-term positive impact."
Second place was awarded to Jack Isles, an architecture graduate based in Australia. His entry proposes a resourceful mapping solution for the favelas of Rio de Janeiro. The proposal is based on the idea that a physical address is now a basic requirement for job applications, bill payment and even the right to vote. The solution uses recycled water bottles, cameras, makeshift kites and other inexpensive materials that enable residents to map the city themselves.
Third place was awarded to Han Kwon and Kellen Pacheco, both currently architecture students at Iowa State University. Their entry addresses access and efficiency of water infrastructure in the municipality of Manchay in Lima, Perú. In regards to the project, jury member Ulf Hackauf (Why Factory) says, "The focus on infrastructure is very convincing. The project aims at precise investment with maximum effect."
Due to the enormous success of this years competition, Shelter Global expects an increase in entries next year, as well as larger prize amounts. The 2016 Dencity Competition is on schedule, with registration opening on January 1, 2016. Anyone interested in reading more about the 2015 Dencity Competition (including full project boards of winners and special mentions) can visit the website here: https://shelterglobal.org/competition.
About Shelter Global
Shelter Global is an international architecture and construction non-profit whose goal is to drastically improve living conditions in informal settlements worldwide.
Chad Johnson
Shelter Global
440-487-6817
chad(at)shelterglobal(dot)org
Chad Johnson, Shelter Global, https://shelterglobal.org/, +1 4404876817, [email protected]
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