Victoria’s Centennial Square will look slightly different this July as it transforms into a magnetic, family-friendly space to showcase the winning design of the latest ‘Pop-Up’ Design Competition.
The City of Victoria is seeking creative ideas to integrate play into Centennial Square and invites qualified teams and individuals to submit design concepts to unleash the playful possibilities of this space this summer.
The purpose of the ‘Pop-Up @ the Square’ Design Competition is to select a team to design, build and install a playful, playable feature that appeals to a wide range of ages. Participants are encouraged to explore unconventional approaches to ‘play’ that contribute to the architectural character and public realm experience in Centennial Square.
The winning team will be selected by a jury panel and will receive a $5,000 award and up to $50,000 to design, build and install an imaginative feature in Victoria’s signature public square. There will also be an opportunity for the public to cast their vote for the People’s Choice Award, the winning team for that will receive $1,000.
“Recognizing that there are currently few opportunities for families with children living in the downtown core, the City is excited to team up with the Downtown Victoria Business Association in seeking innovative and creative solutions to integrate opportunities for play into the everyday fabric of the downtown public realm,” a media release reads.
“We are pleased to partner with the City of Victoria on this pop-up art design competition. Centennial Square is a focal point in our Downtown core and having fun, creative play structure is a feature that will continue to add to our Downtown vibrancy and give families a place to play as they plan their Downtown visit,” says Kerri Milton, Executive Director of the Downtown Victoria Business Association.
Submissions must be in by 4 p.m. PST on March 30.
People’s choice vote will take place in April. The winner of the design competition and people’s choice award will be announced May 2.
Installation of the temporary pop-up feature will be held in early July.
