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28/1/2010

Greenpeace launches architectural competition, with a difference.

Environmental pressure group Greenpeace has launched two competitions seeking designs for an ‘activist base' for land close to Heathrow Airport.

A one-acre plot has been bought by Greenpeace and opponents of Heathrow's expansion at the heart of a site earmarked for a new runway and sixth terminal. In its bid to block development Greenpeace has already created an orchard and allotments, but now it has more ambitious plans. It is hosting one design competition for architects, architecture students and architect-led teams, and a second competition for members of the public to design a building that could form a base for resistance to development.

At the launch of the Open Ideas Architectural Competition, Greenpeace executive director John Sauven said: "We can raise the funds to build it, now we need the right design. We're looking for a structure that is immovable and allows local residents and seasoned environmental campaigners to peacefully block the diggers. It might be underground, it might be overground, it might be both, that's up to the panel of experienced judges from the worlds of architecture and activism to decide."

The judges include Professor Neil Thomas, founder of engineering consultancy Atelier One, environmental activist Oli Rodker, and Peter Clegg, senior partner of architect Feilden Clegg Bradley Studios. Judging criteria include a requirement for a building that is as close to zero-carbon as possible, in embodied energy and energy use when occupied.

The winning designs will be exhibited in London later in the year.