COMPETITION RULES | Design Village

OFFICIAL COMPETITION RULES

All teams must deliver a well-crafted, stable physical structure that can be used as a shelter for the entirety of the event weekend.
All physical structures have no height limitations; however, they must fit within the 150 sqft. wide mark.
All structures must be easily assembled when transported physically to The Architectural Experimental Laboratory.
All structures must encompass a level of creativity and originality.
The site may not be altered, graded, or excavated for a structure to stay in place. Flattening tall grasses and/or repositioning of rocks are permitted; however, no extreme alteration to the site.
Competitors must arrange their poster(s) in 20"x30" landscape format, printed, and presented in addition to their physical structure. They must also include a concept statement, site plan, building plan, elevations, building sections, digital representations, and a diagram of assembly.

Helpful Tips & Tricks

DESIGN MATTERS
Our discussion led to visual clarity. The ideas explored in the project may be simple or complex but the reading of the design must be clear. For instance, does the project connect us to a distant location by framing a specific view? If so, the composition of the aperture and perhaps the position of the viewer may be critical to the project. Past projects that have focused on a single idea have been the most legible to judges and visitors.

MAKING MATTERS
Well-crafted projects that are made from a few material types have been successful. Materials may be found or purchased, in either case, consider their inherent properties.

VERBAL DESCRIPTION MATTERS
A narrative that describes team engagement & decision-making is important. It is helpful to look into the art of storytelling and frame a compelling narrative for the project.

PACK IT IN - PACK IT OUT
Remember that teams carry their projects almost a mile from the canyon gate to the site. Design for this!

DESIGN FOR DISASSEMBLY
Projects need to come down quickly and safely. Consider materials and connections early in the design process. For instance, could you design structural connections with velcro - or zip ties? Get creative with your connections!

Reasons for Disqualification

The use of unaltered pre-manufactured structures. The spirit of Design Village is to see what kind of structures teams can build while being creative and original.

The abandonment of a team's structure during night hours. Although teams are allowed to leave the site during daytime hours, they must return to their structure by 10:00pm in order to remain in the competition. A team must inhabit their structure during night hours, including sleeping in them throughout the entirety of the event weekend. This is to prove the project's livability and encourage dedicated participation in the event.

The possession of drugs, alcohol, or weapons. Absolutely no drugs, alcohol, or items that can cause harm to both individuals or the environment are permitted at the site. As an organization, we look forward to promoting a safe, campus environment.

The possession of items that create a fire risk. Fire hazards are not permitted, though a public campfire may be initiated by a Design Village staff member. There is a high risk of fire at the site. Such items may include but are not limited to: lighters, personal campfires, generators, gas-fired lanterns, non-LED lights, candles/incense, space heaters, and/or camping stoves.

The possession of any prohibited items from Cal Poly's Event Health & Safety Awareness.

Actions that endanger competitors, facilitators, or spectators.

Actions that endanger or risk damage to the permanent structures within The Architectural Experimental Laboratory.

Actions that intentionally intend to compromise another team's ability to participate in the competition.

OFFICIAL COMPETITION RULES

Helpful Tips & Tricks

Reasons for Disqualification

Materials Checklist