Sustainable Design Competition to Rethink Rec Centers

The Delaware Valley Green Building Council has a sustainable design challenge for young professionals and students: How can Philadelphia’s rec centers become more energy-efficient, environmentally responsible, and stronger community amenities?

That’s the focus of this DVGBC’s Sustainable Design Competition, which asks designers to bring their bright ideas to change one of four rec centers – Vare (2600 Morris St.), Cecil B. Moore (2551 N. 22nd Street), Tustin (5901-29 W. Columbia Ave.) and Mantua Wright (3320-50 Haverford Ave.) – selected by Department of Parks and Recreation. Each is in need of repair, has good transit accessibility, and has opportunities for greater energy-efficiency.

Here’s DVGBC’s specific challenge: Starting with an existing site, teams are asked to use adaptive reuse strategies and analysis to design their vision of what a recreation center can be for the community. Consider emphasizing one of three areas that will be strongly considered during judging:

• Energy efficiency and conservation efforts
• Stormwater management on the site and other sustainable landscaping features
• Community outreach and education programs integrating the site specific connection

The competition is open to college students and professionals with less than 5 years of design practice under their belts. Winners will be chosen in student and young professional categories, and first prizes will receive $1,500 cash. Registration is open and submissions are due by April 30 at 12pm. For more info check the competition website, and get those green design wheels turning.