"What If You Were the Designer?" Never Built Virginia Youth Design Competition

Never Built Virginia, an exhibition on display at the Library of Virginia through July 26th, 2008, focuses on the history of ambitious, very creative, and sometimes otherworldly works of architecture proposed but never constructed. In the spirit of architectural creativity, the Library of Virginia is sponsoring the "What If You Were the Designer?" Youth Design Competition.

The entry form is based on the drawing Richmond architect Haigh Jamgochian used in the design for his "never built" structure called "Tree House" prepared for a narrow lot in downtown Richmond. Entrants are asked to sketch their own concept of a building within the space shown, and to provide a brief written description of their design. Entries will be posted in an online gallery, where visitors to the site can cast their votes for their favorite design ideas.

The contest is open to Virginia residents ages 8 to 17. The deadline for submissions is Saturday, April 12, 2008, at 5:00 pm. Winners in both the junior and senior divisions will each receive a $250 savings bond and will have their entries displayed in the lobby of the Library. For more information contact Tameka Hobbs, Program and Education Coordinator, at 804.371.2126, or Susan Gilliam, Educational Assistant, at 804.692.3999.