Just launched… Re-imagine; an ideas competition for creative re-use of Birmingham’s buildings at risk

Birmingham Civic Society and partner organisations are pleased to announce the launch of ‘Re-imagine’: a competition looking for creative ideas for the reuse of some of Birmingham’s most important and challenging buildings

Why?

Birmingham Civic Society is committed to the preservation of Birmingham’s heritage. The buildings featured in this competition are considered significant in the history of Birmingham and ‘at risk’, meaning that their future is uncertain. For many, this is due to their physical condition; for some it is because they are vacant or under-used; for others, it is the very real threat of imminent demolition. We hope to bring these buildings into the public consciousness and stimulate debate. We may even help to identify viable future uses which could save these buildings.

Who?

This competition is about ideas rather than written or drawing skills. You don’t have to be an architect to get involved: everyone has a stake in our city’s built heritage. We are looking for people from all walks of life to submit their imaginative ideas for the creative reuse of their selected building.

What?

We have selected 5 buildings we consider at risk and are interested in your creative ideas about how these building could be re-imagined into a new use.  They are:

• Moseley Road Baths, Balsall Heath, partially in use, built 1907, grade II* listed
• Curzon Street Station, Eastside, vacant, built 1838, Grade I listed
• Golden Lion Inn, Cannon Hill Park, vacant, built early 16th century, grade II listed
• Methodist Central Hall, city centre, partially in use, built 1903/4, grade II* listed
• Central Library,city centre, partially in use, built 1973, unlisted

There is also ‘The Wildcard’ which gives you a chance to put forward ideas for a building in Birmingham that you think is at risk. It is key that your idea is clearly and concisely communicated. Entries should comprise two A3 sheets including:

1. A written description of the concept in no more than 300 words
2. A set of core principles for your concept (written or illustrated)
3. Illustrations as appropriate: sketches, photographs, collages, visuals

Please also provide a CD of your entry in PDF format. Short-listed entries will be invited to present their concept to a panel of judges. The winning entry will receive a £150 prize, with two runners up winning £50 each. A public exhibition showcasing short-listed entries will be displayed as part of Love Architecture Festival.

When?

• Launch 20 May 2014
• Submissions due 13 June 2014
• Judging date 17 June 2014
• Winners announced as part of RIBA West Midlands Love Architecture Festival. Date/venue to be confirmed

Download all this information Re-imagine…competition_(A4)[1]

Entries should arrive by 5pm on Friday 13 June to:

Re-imagine Competition

C/O Gavin Orton, Bryant Priest Newman

3 Mary St, Birmingham, B3 1 UD

Any Questions?

If you have any questions please email Gavin Orton: gavin@bryantpriestnewman.com