2024
Dewan Award for Architecture
The Iraq Pavilion Design Competition
Embark on a journey where the rich tapestry of Iraq’s storied history intertwines with the nation’s aspirations for the future, guided by innovation and boundless creativity.
Tamayouz Excellence Award warmly invites architects, designers, engineers and artists to be a driving force in shaping Iraq’s narrative on the global stage, to join us in designing Iraq Pavilion for a Global Exposition at the esteemed Baghdad International Fairgrounds.
In this brief, participants will find information on everything related to the competition, including the site, competition guidelines, prizes, and award ceremony.
GLOBAL GATHERINGS
Global gatherings have long served as pivotal moments in history, bringing together people from diverse corners of the world to exchange ideas, foster collaboration, and celebrate the richness of human achievement. These gatherings have evolved throughout the centuries, reflecting the dynamic nature of our interconnected global community. Some notable historical events showcase the significance of such gatherings:
EXPOSITIONS
From Joseph Paxton’s monumental Great Exhibition at The Crystal Palace’s inaugural event in London’s Hyde Park in 1851 to Gustave Eiffel’s soaring marvel and the innovative architecture of the 2020 Expo in Dubai, the legacy of EXPO pavilions is both magnificent and transformative, reflecting the evolving currents of culture, technology, and diplomacy.
Initially focused on showcasing trade and technological advancements, Universal Expos shifted towards emphasising cultural exchange to shape humanity’s better future throughout the twentieth century.
In the era of Contemporary Expos, participating nations and host countries have utilized these events’ significant visibility and media influence to bolster the international image of their nations. This has led to the creation of impressive national pavilions that serve as focal points for the convergence of trade, culture, and technological innovations.
These expositions serve as a global stage where nations reveal their ingenuity, fostering international understanding while proudly displaying the essence of their heritage and national identity through avant-garde pavilions.
Iraq’s first participation in International Exposition dates back to the Exposition de Paris in 1937.
BIENNIALS
The first biennial was the Venice Biennale, initiated by the mayor of Venice in 1895. It was the first significant art exhibition not by a collective of artists, a collector or patron, or a cultural institution. The Venice Biennale was developed with an attention towards rising bourgeois tourism.
In the 1950s, a set of new biennials emerged, which changed the concept and widened the reasons for staging them. In 1951, when the Biennial of Sao Paulo was founded, Brazil attempted to push for an ambitious modernist agenda to reform the state and, more importantly, to form an independent, modern national cultural identity.
Biennials have had a profound impact on the art world and beyond. They have challenged and sometimes changed local perceptions about the use of space.
They interact personally with our spatial and political perceptions and imagination through the art they exhibit and often produce.
While there are more than 100 biennials worldwide, some have been particularly influential. These biennials have played a significant role in shaping the global art scene, providing a platform for cross-cultural exchange, challenging societal norms, and addressing pressing issues facing humanity.
They continue to push the boundaries of artistic expression and cultural understanding, leaving an indelible mark on the global art world and beyond.
BIF - IRAQ
BAGHDAD INTERNATIONAL FAIR
The Baghdad International Fair has a rich history dating back to 1957 when the first exhibition, known as the Industrial and Agricultural Exhibition, was held on the current site of the Fairgrounds. Iraqi national products were prominently showcased during this event, organized by the Baghdad Governorate.
Subsequently, in 1959, the Iraqi Exhibitions Authority was established, and the exhibition was renamed the “July 14 Exhibition,” managed by the Ministry of Economy.
However, the true inception of the Baghdad International Fair occurred in 1964 when it became an international venue, attracting participation from five Arab countries.
Over time, the Fair evolved into one of the largest economic and trade events in the region, leading to its affiliation with the Union Internationale des Expositions (UFI) in Paris in 1971.
Iraq’s membership in UFI positioned it as a representative of Arab countries within the organization.
The Baghdad International Fair stands as a symbol of Iraq’s commitment to fostering international trade, economic development and architectural thinking.
In this competition participants are asked to design the Iraq Pavilion for global gatherings at the Baghdad International Fair.
Initially focused on showcasing trade and technological advancements, Universal Expos shifted towards emphasising cultural exchange to shape humanity’s better future throughout the twentieth century.
In the era of Contemporary Expos, participating nations and host countries have utilized these events’ significant visibility and media influence to bolster the international image of their nations. This has led to the creation of impressive national pavilions that serve as focal points for the convergence of trade, culture, and technological innovations.
These expositions serve as a global stage where nations reveal their ingenuity, fostering international understanding while proudly displaying the essence of their heritage and national identity through avant-garde pavilions.
Iraq’s first participation in International Exposition dates back to the Exposition de Paris in 1937.
Competition Site
CONTEXT
Baghdad, the capital of Iraq, covers an area of 204.2 square kilometers and is home to a population soon approaching 10 million, making it the largest city in Iraq. Additionally, it ranks as the second largest city in the Arab world, after Cairo, Egypt.
Split in two by the Tigris River, Baghdad sits approximately 300 miles from the northern, southern and western borders of the country. Its eastern part is called Al-Rusafa, while its western part is called Al-Karkh. Temperatures range from 5°C to 15°C in winter and maintain an average of 47°C in summer.
Establishing its capital in Baghdad in 762CE, the Abbasid Caliphate laid the foundation for the flourishing of Islamic culture in the city, which occurred over the following five centuries.
Baghdad became synonymous with tolerance and education, as it served as a regional hub for intellectual advancements in fields such as science, medicine, philosophy and engineering. And further marking the ‘Golden Age of Islam’.
Competition Site
THE SITE
The Baghdad International Fairgrounds, situated in the Al-Mansour District on Damascus Street, right across from Baghdad Mall, the fairgrounds is a hub for various events.
Every October, the place comes alive with the Baghdad International Fair, where countries from around the world gather to showcase their goods and services. Alongside the exhibitions, visitors can enjoy cultural performances and artistic displays.
Al-Mansour district is considered a model for the expansion of Baghdad. Beginning in the early 1950s, the district became home to many of Baghdad’s clubs, housing, employment, cultural activities, markets, private companies, and restaurants.
COMPETITION DATA
Click to go to the location on Google Maps.
VISION
The Iraq Pavilion, drawing inspiration from Mesopotamia’s rich legacy, is designed to be a testament to art, architecture, and ambition. It embodies the spirit of a nation that has withstood the test of time, celebrating ancient civilisations and their contributions to humanity while looking forward to a promising future.
In an era where diplomacy and cultural exchange are crucial, the Pavilion is a platform for Iraq to share its narrative and connect with the world.
We invite innovative ideas that reflect a deep understanding of Iraq’s cultural heritage and current aspirations.
THE CHALLENGE
Iraq has reemerged on the global stage in recent years, participating in international gatherings through National Pavilions.
However, these pavilions often fail to adequately represent the significance of Iraq, its rich history and culture, the aspirations of its people, or the challenges they have overcome.
Moreover, Iraq’s diverse cultural heritage offers a wealth of inspiration that, when refined and thoughtfully curated, could lead to a pavilion design that elegantly showcases this diversity rather than overwhelming it.
Furthermore, to ensure the pavilion’s effectiveness, its design must also be contextualised to the designated plot at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds.
Participants are encouraged to address this challenge contextually, by creating a work of art and architecture that would defy superficiality, and would capture the cultural richness and aspirations of the Iraqi people.
RESPOSNE
Participants are invited to design the Iraq Pavilion and the main plaza around it for a global exposition at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds.
The design must adhere to certain parameters: the maximum footprint should not exceed 5000 sqm of the plot area (area is 23,250 sqm), with a maximum height of 25m above ground and 10m below ground.
The pavilion will be the permanent Iraq Pavilion for global gatherings at the Baghdad International Fairgrounds.
THEME
The evolution of global gatherings and pavilions has been marked by themes tailored to their respective eras, each with a unique focus relevant to its time. From celebrating industry and arts to exploring culture, education, technological advancements, sustainability, mobility, and the planet’s future, these gatherings have influenced our understanding of progress and innovation.
Participants are encouraged to select their pavilion themes creatively, allowing them to design accordingly.
Left: The Great Exhibition (1851) in London, United Kingdom, focused on “Industry of all Nations” and was held at the iconic Crystal Palace.
DESIGN PROGRAMME
The Programme for a permanent national pavilion would typically include a variety of spaces and features designed to represent the country’s culture, innovations, and vision for the future. Here are some elements that might be included:
- Exhibition Areas: These spaces are used to display artefacts, artworks, or interactive exhibits that represent the country’s culture, history, and future aspirations.
- Auditoriums or Performance Spaces: These areas can be used for live performances, presentations, or film screenings.
- Educational Spaces: These could include classrooms or workshops for educational programs or cultural demonstrations.
- Retail Spaces: These might include gift shops selling items representing the country’s culture.
- Food and Beverage Outlets: These spaces allow visitors to taste the country’s cuisine.
- Administrative Spaces: These are necessary for the management and operation of the pavilion.
- Storage and Maintenance Areas: These spaces store exhibits, cleaning supplies, and other operational necessities.
- Outdoor Spaces: Depending on the pavilion’s design, there might be outdoor spaces for exhibits, performances, or relaxation.
- VIP or Hospitality Lounges: These spaces are used to host special guests or events.
- Accessibility Features: The pavilion should be designed to be accessible to all, including those with disabilities. This might include ramps, elevators, accessible restrooms, etc.
The programme would also depend on the theme of the pavilion. Participants are asked to devise their design programme based on the chosen theme, ensuring a positive user experience.
It is essential to prioritise accessibility, functionality, and smooth flow to guarantee visitors have the best possible experience exploring the pavilion.
By carefully considering these aspects, you will enhance visitors’ experience to the Iraq Pavilion and leave a lasting impression.
ASSESSMENT CRITERIA
Relevance
A clear declaration of conditions that set the urban and cultural contextual parameters of the project. Clarity in demonstrating thorough research and understanding of contextual parameters.
Response
Aspirational and original ideas with a programmatic response to existing local urban, environmental, and social conditions and challenges. Clarity of the design process.
Resolution
A clearly declared spatial and technical justification, accessibility, safety, security, durability, and environmental impact, with a strong emphasis on buildability.
IMPORTANT DATES
February 2024 Competition launch |
29 September Registration deadline |
1st of October Submission deadline |
October 2024 Shortlist Announcement |
November 2024 Winners Announcement |
All Deadlines are 6 pm GMT (London). |
REGULATIONS
- This is an anonymous competition and the Unique Registration Number is the only means of identification.
- The official language of the award is English.
- The registration fee for this award is non-refundable.
- Contacting the jury is prohibited.
- As the award organiser, Tamayouz Excellence Award reserves the right to modify the award schedule if deemed necessary.
- Entries will only be reviewed if rules or submission requirements are followed.
- Participation assumes acceptance of competition regulations.
ELIGIBILITY
Architects, students, engineers, and designers are invited to participate in this competition. Participation can be on an individual or team basis (maximum of 8 members per team). We encourage the participation of multidisciplinary teams.
REGISTRATION
Registration
Early Registration: $75 from Feb to 30/Apr
Standard Registration: $90 from 01/May to 31/Aug.
Last Chance Registration: $100 from 01/Sep to 01/Oct.
Student Registration
Teams led by students receive a 50% discount on their registration fees.
To qualify for this discount, the student must be the genuine leader of the team. During registration, a valid student ID will be required to confirm eligibility for the discount.
*Institutional Registration: $500
This option is open for universities and other institutions interested in sponsoring their students to participate in International competitions and showcase their students’ work on a global platform.
For $500, your university can sponsor all its students and staff who wish to participate in the International Graduation Projects Award and Dewan Award for Architecture and its annual competition.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Participants required to submit the following (In one Zip file named after the unique registration number):
- One – A0 board in JPEG format. Every team is encouraged to submit all the information they consider necessary to explain their proposal. Content may include but is not limited to plans, sections, elevations, visualisations and diagrams. The resolution of the boards must be 300dpi with the unique registration number placed in the upper left corner of the board in 22pt font.
- Word document file containing the project statement (250 Words Max) explaining the design proposal.
- One – Main Image (16:9) of the Entry in a JPEG Format (Preferably a bird’s eye view of the Pavilion and the Main Plaza).
- Submit your entry by using the upload link in your registration confirmation email.
Poster Layout: Posters can be in whichever layout the participant finds suitable; Portrait or landscape.
A zip file should contain: 1 X A0 (JPEG – 300 dpi) + 1 X Word DOC (250) Words + 1 X Main Image (16:9) of the Project (JPEG – 300 dpi).
Note: All files must be named after the unique registration number.
PRIZES
The winners of the Dewan Award 2024 will receive the following prizes
*First prize will be a fully paid employment at Dewan for 6 months expandable to one year. If for any reason this cannot be achieved then a sum of $6000 will be presented.**A representative of each of the TOP 3 winners will have their Flight and Accommodation costs covered by the organisers of the prize; Tamayouz Excellence Award. *** Tamayouz Excellence Award will only cover the flight and accommodation for the Top 3 winners. Honourable Mentions will receive invitation to attend the ceremony, the invitation doesn’t include funding of expenses **** Winners are responsible for all COVID-19 travel related arrangements such as visa, insurance, tests and vaccination certificates when required.
JUDGING PANEL
The judging panels of Tamayouz Excellence Award always comprises world class architects, engineers, planners, designers and academics. This year’s Dewan Award’s panel is made of:
Professor Emerita Wendy Pullan – Cambridge – Cambridge University
Professor Jala Makhzoumi – Beirut – UNIT 44
Dr Ahmadreza Hakiminejad – Leeds – Leeds Beckett University
Dr Davide Ponzini – Milan – Politecnico di Milano
Dr Mohamed Al-Assam – Dubai – Founder of Dewan Architects and Engineers
Fuad AL Kindi – Muscat – President of Oman Society of Engineers.
Nadia Habash – Ramallah – Head Engineering Association in Palestine
Fernando Olba – Valencia – Fernando Olba Arquitectura y urbanismo
Sebastian Hicks – Oxford – Oxford Brookes University
Ahmed Al-Azzawi – Milton Keynes – Barratt Developments
Ahmed Al-Mallak – Founding Director – Tamayouz Excellence Award
THE CEREMONY
Every Ceremony Tamayouz Excellence Award invites architects, planners, artists and academics from around the world to celebrate
architectural excellence within the region and worldwide.
Our ceremonies mark a milestone in bringing people together and bridging cultures. Alongside the ceremony, we will be organising several Tamayouz Talks which will open to the public during the ceremony week.
An invitation to attend the Tamayouz Award Biennial Ceremony for the Top 10 mentioned above.
**A representative of each of the TOP 3 winners will have their Flight and Accommodation costs covered by the organisers of the prize; Tamayouz Excellence Award.
*** Tamayouz Excellence Award will only cover the flight and accommodation for the Top 3 winners. Honourable Mentions will receive invitation to attend the ceremony, the invitation doesn’t include funding of expenses.
**** Winners are responsible for all COVID-19 travel related arrangements such as visa, insurance, tests and vaccination certificates when required.
