Entries close on 12 June

The RIBA has launched an ideas competition on how designs might look in areas such as public transport and housing in a post-pandemic world.

Called Rethink 2025, the competition is sponsored by Arup and will carry a first prize of £5,000.

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Source: Shutterstock

The country went into lockdown more than seven weeks ago

The RIBA is asking for designs in several areas including healthcare spaces, remote learning, high density living, public transport, high streets vs online shopping, international travel and the use of technology to monitor and control populations.

Chief executive Alan Vallance said it wants to see how design can mitigate the worst effects of how humans interact with space and eachother.

He added: “We need to design spaces and buildings that contribute to the health and wellbeing of everyone. Architects have a vital role to play in adapting and redefining our environments in a post-pandemic world.”

Judges include Francine Houben, the founding partner of Dutch practice Mecanoo, and Matt Jones, principal designer at Google AI.

Others include Arup director of structural engineering Ed Clarke and London mayor design advocate Joanna Averley. The panel will be chaired by RIBA Journal editor Hugh Pearman.

Firms have until 12 June to submit entries, details of which can be found here.