Vancouver launches public design competition for rain-friendly public spaces

Harbourfront Centre in downtown Toronto is a covered outdoor concert venue on the waterfront. (Shutterstock)

From grass lawns that become mud pits to outdoor plazas without any coverings, public spaces in Vancouver go under-utilized during the long rainy season.

That is why the City of Vancouver is launching a new public competition inviting all residents to submit creative designs to increase the utility of public spaces in wet weather.

“While the City has many excellent public spaces, most of these spaces are ill-equipped to support public activity in the rain. Public life in Vancouver is challenged by the weather,” reads the competition description.

“Utilization of parks and plazas drops, and otherwise vibrant streets and spaces lose opportunities for lingering and enjoyment. The umbrella overhead becomes a shield against the elements, and street life takes on an accelerated pace as people hurry to get out of the rain. Life between umbrellas means the action in our public space either shuts down or shifts inside.”

There are three categories for the ‘Life Between Umbrellas’ competition, which is a partnership with the Vancouver Public Space Network:

rain-friendly public spaces such as parks plazas or laneways
ready-to-build designs for a rain-friendly structure or installation
rain-friendly events and celebrations that can help promote fun during the wetter months

Prizes for the best ideas in each category will be awarded, with winners selected by a jury and a people’s choice voting process. Supplementary prizes will also be awarded for children and youth aged 18 and under.

Ideas can be submitted from now until 5 pm on April 15, 2019, and the winners will be selected in May. For more information on the competition, click here.

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