Architectural competitions

Colander has a proud track record of setting up and managing competitions for major private clients: both developers and end users. We also work with public sector clients where the competitive process needs to be implemented in accordance with OJEU procedures.

Our services :

Caroline Cole and Louise Harrison are two of the most experienced and capable competition organisers in the UK and their expertise underpins Colander’s growing reputation for a refreshing approach to carefully managed, bespoke competitions that inspire architects and clients alike.

Our aim is to delight our clients with the effectiveness of the competition formats that we create, and the calibre of design teams that we attract. Our open competitions regularly attract interest from local, national and international practices: from famous ‘Starchitects’ to less well known but equally talented and interesting design teams.

We expect to tailor the competition methodology to meet our client’s aspirations, addressing the three cornerstones of a good project: quality, time and cost.

Competition updates :

Live

The British Museum

Tendring/Colchester Garden Community

Begbroke: A new innovation district for Oxford

Iron Line: Millom, Cumbria

National Museums Liverpool: Waterfront Transformation

Thamesmead Waterfront

View all competitions

Keeping in the loop :

If you would like us to know about your practice and its work, and would like to receive information about our open competitions, please sign up below.

"Caroline brought outstanding clarity of communication and rigour in all her dealings with both the client team and the 350 architects from around the world who expressed interest in being involved in the project. At all times, Caroline maintained the highest possible standards of professionalism, helping to secure both the client’s interest in devising and managing fair judging criteria, appropriate to the scope and role sought – and in ensuring that architects were not over-committed in their submission and interview requirements. 

Caroline’s efforts have provided the University with an unparalleled oversight of the architectural profession at all scales of practice, leading to the appointment of a truly outstanding group of collaborating architects."

— Jonathan Rose, Masterplan Design Principal for NW Cambridge, Aecom