Projects Sought for Pro Bono Design Book
Projects highlighting pro bono design due September 4

Summary: The national nonprofit organization, 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 “for the good” projects, with preference given to free and reduced-fee work for nonprofit and community organizations that could not otherwise afford to work with an architect or designer. Projects are sought in the areas of education, health, housing, open space, and arts and culture.

Slated for release in fall 2010, the yet-to-be-titled book will serve as a comprehensive catalogue of pro bono architectural design. It is focused on showcasing the work of an array of practices—including high-profile firms not often associated with public-interest design—through visually engaging project case studies, practice profiles, and client testimonials.

How to submit
Submissions are due September 4, 2009. According to Public Architecture, projects to be included would ideally have one or more of the following qualities: clear social relevance or benefit, excellence in architectural design, and/or 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, to be published by Architecture for Humanity.

AIA membership as well as firm participation in The 1% program of Public Architecture are encouraged, but not required.

For each project, email the following information to book@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 e-mail or phone within 24 hours of submission, and projects will be reviewed on a rolling basis as they are received. Projects advanced as candidates will undergo brief phone interviews with both the designer and client, and 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. E-mail book@publicarchitecture.org with suggestions and any available information about such projects.