Given the longevity of architecture in the city, there are an increasing number of buildings still fit for use despite having outlived their functional role. Thus, schemes for the conversion of existing buildings enable inhabitation of the city centre, giving architects an important new role. These residential forms would include mass housing along with various other usages, such as the long-term-stay model or small hotel. Even mass housing is not limited to families and those living on their own; many new models continue to be requested, such as the SOHO model and the room-share. An increase in these new living spaces are also useful for activating the city. Applicants must select existing buildings for their entries. In establishing ways to convert these into rich urban residences, concrete proposals are preferable to the presentation of abstract concept and ideas. This competition will adopt a two-stage method of first judging by drawings, and then judging by interviews open to the public. It will emphasize a clear expression of the ambition and potential to transform current society through architecture.
The Stage 1 submission deadline is July 10, 2006, and the ten finalists will be announced later that month. The Stage 2 submission deadline is September 23, 2006.
One first-place prize of 2,000,000 and a commemorative gift will be awarded; three second-place prizes of 300,000 and a commemorative gift will be awarded; and six honourable mentions of 100,000 and a commemorative gift will be awarded. The finalist will be invited to Tokyo, and winners will be announced in the November 2006 issue of Shinkenchiku and Volume 64 of The Japan Architect.
The jury includes: Toyo Ito of Toyo Ito & Associates, Architects; Riken Yamamoto of Riken Yamamoto & Field Shop; Taro Ashihara of Taro Ashihara Architects; and Kengo Kuma of Kengo Kuma & Associates.
For more information, please visit www.cgco.co.jp/english/conversion.html