Projects Sought for Pro Bono Design Book

Deadline: September 4, 2009

Public Architecture seeks pro bono design projects for inclusion in a forthcoming book to be published by Metropolis Books / Distributed Art Publishers. Public Architecture takes a broad view of “pro bono,” which literally means “for good.” Preference will thus be given to free and reduced-fee work for nonprofit and community organizations that could not otherwise afford to work with an architect or designer. Of particular interest are projects that have demonstrably advanced the mission of the client organization. Projects are sought in the areas of education, health, housing, open space, as well as arts and culture.

Desirable pro bono projects include one or more of the following qualities:

• Clear social relevance or benefit
• Excellence in architectural design
• Strong story narrative

Projects must be photographed or photographable. Built work is preferred, but yet-to-be-realized work will be considered. Projects located in the U.S. are preferred, with international projects recommended for submission to the second edition of Design Like You Give a Damn, forthcoming from Architecture for Humanity.

Firm participation in The 1% program of Public Architecture is encouraged, but not required.
 

How to Submit

For each project that you wish to submit, simply email the following information to info@publicarchitecture.org:

• names of the designer and client
• project type
• title of the project
• location of the project
• pro bono design services rendered
• project completion date, even if anticipated
• origin of the designer/client relationship
• contact information for the designer and client

The more information submitted, the more seriously Public Architecture can consider the project for inclusion. A Public Architecture representative will acknowledge all project recommendations by email or phone within 24 hours of submission. Projects will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received, with selection to take place after September 4, 2009. Projects advanced as candidates will undergo brief phone interviews with both the designer and client. Designers may be asked to assist with securing rights to publish the photographs.

Referrals to pro bono projects undertaken by other firms are welcome and appreciated as well. Email info@publicarchitecture.org with suggestions and any available information about such projects.
 

About the Book

Slated for release in Fall 2010 by Metropolis Books / Distributed Art Publishers, this yet-untitled book will serve as a seminal catalog of pro bono design by architecture and design firms. It will showcase the work of an array of practices, including a number of high-profile firms not often associated with public-interest design. Through visually engaging project case studies, practice profiles, and client testimonials, the book will illustrate the power of pro bono design.

John Cary, Executive Director of Public Architecture, is authoring the book, in association with Public Architecture Summer Associates Heera Basi and Trudy Garber. All proceeds from the book will be donated by the author to Public Architecture.

For more information, email info@publicarchitecture.org.