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2025 Student Competition: Innovation in Concrete Masonry Design

CMHA is thrilled to collaborate again with The Association of Collegiate Schools of Architecture (ACSA), for the 2025 Concrete Masonry Design Student Competition. This year’s competition will challenge students, working individually or in teams, to explore various design issues related to masonry construction on a state-of-the-art fire station with an emphasis on local civic engagement.

The design competition tasks students with creating a fire station that utilizes concrete masonry products as the primary material. The design should accommodate various functions, including equipment and vehicle storage, maintenance, gender-inclusive housing, recreation, administration, training, community education, and civic events. Concrete masonry offers flexibility, resilience, and durability, providing vast opportunities for form, function, and expression.

  • Registration Deadline: April 9, 2025
  • Submission Deadline: June 4, 2025
  • Jury Convenes: Summer 2025
  • Winners Announced: Fall 2025

A total of $20,000 USD in cash prizes will be distributed:

  • First Place: $8,000 (Student(s)), $3,000 (Faculty Sponsor(s))
  • Second Place: $4,000 (Student(s)), $2,000 (Faculty Sponsor(s))
  • Third Place: $2,000 (Student(s)), $1,000 (Faculty Sponsor(s))

Honorable mentions may also be awarded at the jury’s discretion.

Eligibility

The competition is open to students and/or student teams from ACSA Full and Candidate Member Schools, as well as ACSA Affiliate Member Schools from the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Design Requirements

Submissions should demonstrate:

  • An innovative use of concrete masonry units.
  • A strong conceptual strategy translated into a coherent design.
  • Mastery of formal concepts and aesthetic values.
  • A compelling response to the physical and cultural context.
  • An innovative approach to sustainability, considering social, economic, and environmental issues.
  • An appreciation of human needs and social responsibilities.

Registration and Submission

Faculty sponsors are responsible for registering their students by April 9, 2025. Final submissions must be uploaded by June 4, 2025. Detailed registration and submission guidelines are available on the ACSA website.

Learn more about the competition and register today!

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