DBC08

Design Build Challenge | 2008

3 Days | Identify Client | Identify Need | Design Project | Fund Project | Build Project

After winning the first Design Build Challenge (DBC07 | New Orleans) the competition's creators asked TiLT to host DBC08. Given the direct and immediate impact that the DBC has on local communities, Project Locus's intention was to relocate the host city each year, making the DBC an ever evolving design competition. To that end, TiLT's responsibility was to take the framework already established by Project Locus and make it Seattle specific.

At that time, the city of Seattle was changing its policy regarding Emergency shelters and Homeless encampments, resulting in dispersed communities and limiting access to much needed services for Seattle's homeless population. TiLT saw this as an opportunity for the DBC to have an impact. We partnered with SHARE | Wheel, homeless advocacy organizations that manage Seattle Tent Cities and with Women In Black, a national organization that holds silent vigils for homeless that have died on the streets. Both groups were instrumental in identifying needed services and in creating a collaborative atmosphere amongst organizers, clients and competitors. In March of 2008, 5 teams had 72 hrs to design and build a demountable toilet or a homeless memorial, providing hygiene and creating awareness about those without shelter.

Status: March 27-30, 2008
Location: Seattle WA
Organizers: Travis Anderson | Haejung Arasmith | Merith Bennet | Zac Jensen
Anna Koosman | Gia Mugford | Carl von Rueden | Adrienne Wicks
Winners: Homeless Memorial Cube
Fastest Build: Pallete John
Jury: Steve Badanes | Mark Haizlip | Paula Paterson |
Sponsors: 4Culture | AIA Seattle | JAS Design/Build
Seattle Office of Cultural Affairs | OM media | PB Elemental
Thanks: Project Locus | SHARE | Wheel | Women in Black
Our Redeemers Church | Tent City residents | All the fantastic participants