By Raynald C Rivera
DOHA: Twenty-one contestants from Qatar, the GCC and UK will take a weeklong residency as they compete for the Unlimited Doha Design Prize to take place from Friday to March 26.
British Council Qatar announced at a press conference yesterday it has finalised the shortlist for the Unlimited Doha Design Prize, which is being held under the patronage of H E Sheikha Al Mayassa bint Hamad bin Khalifa Al Thani, Chairperson of Qatar Museums, in partnership with the Supreme Committee for Delivery & Legacy (SC).
The 21 shortlisted competitors, who will work in teams, was chosen more than 60 submissions. They comprise five from Qatar, six from the GCC and 10 from UK who are developing their design concepts and going through various educational activities, before their final submission of drawings, models, photographs, films or documents.
Frank Fitzpatrick, British Council Director, said the levels of innovation and creativity in the submissions reflected the dynamic architecture sector in the Gulf region in general and Qatar in particular.
“The event is focussed on mobility within the city, and in particular on how designers can improve the experience of movement, thereby ensuring that buildings and public realms are accessible to all,” said Fitzpatrick.
“They will work in teams to research and explore the theme of ‘The Open City’ and develop new ideas and innovative design solutions that will improve the experience of movement and accessibility in the 21st century city,” Fitzpatrick added.
Dr Waseem Kotoub, British Council, Head of Arts and Creativity, said, “From arts perspective, this project responds to arts and disability/inclusion strategy in the Gulf.
“We started it in 2013, followed up with a conference and this project. We need to spread awareness on inclusive design. This is just one step towards an inclusive society and we hope it continues.”
Abdulla Al Kaarani, Director, Urban Planning Department Director, Ministry of Municipality and Environment, said: “Our responsibility is to align the undergoing projects happening in Doha with our comprehensive urban plan.
“The Unlimited Doha Design Prize will help us look into the distinctive quality from the various architects and designers from the region as well as from the UK.
“We will identify the type of orientation and training needed for our national architects to excel in their work.
“The week-long residency is a creative idea to encourage the youth to innovate for Qatar,” he added.
The winning team will be awarded a grant of £15,000 to further develop the project proposal.
The Peninsula
