Architects and designers from around the world are invited to take part in a design competition to redefine the future of housing in New South Wales (NSW).
The Pattern Book Design Competition calls for bold and innovative ideas for terrace houses and mid-rise apartment buildings for the 21st century.
International architects, and students of architecture are invited to express their interest in developing housing designs that are simple to build, sustainable and affordable.
The competition will support the development of a pattern book of endorsed housing designs that will guide the creation of new low- and mid-rise housing.
Selected competition winners in the professional category will have the opportunity to have their designs brought to life and built on a selection of government owned sites.
The competition is led by Government Architect NSW and aims to engage the best architectural minds to develop housing ideas to support more diverse housing choice and help fill the gap between detached homes and high-rise apartment buildings.
Expression of interest
An expression of interest (EOI) is now open for the Pattern Book Design Competition. Apply for either professional or student category.
Open to registered architects and architects eligible for registration in NSW.
Open to anyone enrolled in a recognised architecture degree course globally.
EOI selection criteria will be based on demonstrated capability, portfolio, and a task appreciation and methodology statement. Shortlisted candidates will be invited to participate in the Stage 2 Design Competition and submit detailed pattern designs in their chosen category with the winners announced later this year.
Expression of interest brief
Read the NSW Housing Pattern Book Design Competition – Expression of Interest brief (PDF, 3.2 MB) and the EOI terms and conditions (PDF, 134 KB).
The EOI closes at 5 pm on 9 August 2024 (Australian Eastern Standard Time).
Millard Place Terraces. Image credit: Richard Glover. Image source: WMK Architecture 
Darlington Brickworks. Image credit: Brett Boardman. Image source: Glyde Bautovich 
Eclipse Residences. Image credit: McKean Photo. Image source: CKDS Architecture 
Highbury Bay. Image credit: Simon Whitbread. Image source: Squillace Architects (SQA) 
Portman Street Terraces. Image credit: Ross Honeysett. Image source: CO-AP Architects
Frequently asked questions
For more details about the expression of interest phase, read the of the frequently asked questions.
More information
For more information about the Pattern Book Design Competition, email [email protected]
Thank you to our valued partners Homes NSW, Landcom and Sydney Olympic Park Authority for their part in delivering the Pattern Book Design Competition build sites.