An open international competition – featuring a $20,000 prize fund – is being held for new housing concepts to boost affordability and quality in Denver, Colorado (Deadline: 18 September) The competition invites architects, designers and urban planners to put forward proposals for new ‘bold, forward-looking’ homes which help address Denver’s housing crisis while also delivering a ‘more vibrant, inclusive, and resilient urban fabric.’ Organised by Buildner in collaboration with AIA Colorado and the City and County of Denver – the contest aims to re-imagine materials, construction, urban integration and sustainability at a range of scales from individual units to neighbourhood-wide strategies or policy frameworks. Concepts which are ‘scalable, adaptable, and deeply rooted in the specific environmental and social context of Denver’ are encouraged. According to the brief: ‘While housing affordability remains one of the city’s most urgent issues – exacerbated by population growth, economic pressures, and shifting demographics – this initiative calls on architects, designers, and urban thinkers to propose visionary solutions that do more than meet basic housing needs. ‘Participants are encouraged to reimagine the role of affordable housing as a tool for elevating neighbourhoods, reinforcing urban identity, and addressing broader challenges such as climate change, biodiversity loss, and social inclusion.’ Denver is the capital and most populous city of Colorado with 725,000 residents. Between 2010 and 2020 the settlement witnessed a 20 per cent increase in population, contributing to a severe local housing crisis and a rise in homelessness. The latest competition aims to explore ways that new housing in Denver can bring together both ‘affordability and design excellence’ and create ‘innovative, high-quality housing solutions tailored to Denver’s specific context.’ Participants are encouraged to submit ‘imaginative and context-sensitive’ proposals and are free to choose any existing or theoretical location within the city to focus on. Concepts should respond to both ‘environmental crises and the opportunities that technology provides.’ The jury has yet to be announced. Submissions should include up to four, A2-sized boards featuring images and drawings. The overall winner – to be announced 10 December – will receive a $10,000 top prize. A second prize of $5,000 and third prize of $3,000 will also be awarded along with two special awards each worth $2,000 and six honourable mentions. How to apply Deadline: 18 September Fee: Until 28 May: €110; From 29 May to 17 July: €120; From 18 July to 18 September: €130 Competition funding source: Not supplied Project funding source: Not supplied Owner of site(s): Not supplied Contact details: contact@buildner.comVisit the competition website for more information