Community Competitions

Quick ideas, real projects, fresh talent.

A new way to commission design

Community Competitions helps clients, community groups and local organisations run small, design-focused architecture competitions.

We make the process simple, transparent and affordable, connecting you with talented architects and designers through open calls that generate real, buildable ideas for your site or project.

Whether you are a community group improving a local space, a business exploring an idea, or a public body looking for fresh design thinking, we can help you shape and run a competition that fits your budget, timeline and ambition.

Why use Community Competitions?

  • Real projects, not paper exercises.
    Each competition responds to genuine needs and opportunities.

  • Fast, fair and transparent.
    Open calls, clear briefs and accessible entry requirements.

  • Fresh perspectives.
    We connect clients with emerging practices and new voices.

  • Low cost, high impact.
    A small investment can unlock big ideas and public support.

Our Approach

Architecture competitions do not need to be complicated or expensive.
We have designed a model that works for smaller projects, light on process and high on creativity.

  • Develop a clear, engaging brief.

  • Manage the open call and judging process.

  • Think about next steps and

  • Share results through exhibitions, press and community engagement.

Each competition should include an honorarium or fee for shortlisted and winning teams, recognising the value of creative work and supporting fair participation.

The result is a fast, inspiring and democratic way to commission design.

Our First Competition

Portobello Promenade, Edinburgh
Our pilot competition invited ideas for reimagining a disused toilet block as a new community hub, café and public space.

With more than 50 entries, it showed how a small project can inspire national interest and community engagement.

Work with Us

If you have a site, idea or project that could benefit from a fresh design perspective, we would be happy to talk. Community Competitions can help you shape a brief, set up a transparent process and connect with the right design talent.