Working to a theme “Housing for Vulnerable People”, many teams of 2nd year students from various universities and technikons developed conceptual proposals for the innovative and efficient accommodation of anyone or more vulnerable groups of the poor in society, including the aged, physically or mentally handicapped, street children, people infected with HIV/AIDS, etc. The awards were held during the National Architectural Students Congress, held at the University of Natal, Durban. 770 students from across South Africa’s universities and technikons participated. The overriding theme of the week was that a new architecture is possible rather than focusing on forms and shapes. A departure from the past.

Murray & Roberts donated R145 000,00 to the competition and event, with four prizes to the value of R35 000 being awarded to the four best architectural projects related to the theme.

The entrants this year produced projects of a very high standard. R10 000 was awarded to three students each, Robert Armstrong from Tswane University of Technology, Lucie de Moyencourt and Stephanie Potgieter both of University of Cape Town and R5 000 awarded to Imke Stals of Tswane University of Technology who did not meet the specification, but delivered an excellent project.

Commenting on the Des Baker Award, Murray & Roberts Group Chief Executive, Brian Bruce said “ The construction industry in South Africa is experiencing real and seemingly sustainable growth for the first time in two decades. Macro-economic indicators are positive and although many of our young professionals may not find immediate opportunity in this market, I am confident that this will change within a few years”. He continued saying “Des Baker was a previous Chief Executive of Murray & Roberts and one of the few engineers awarded honorary membership in the Architectural profession”.

Representing the panel of local and international judges, Rajeer Kathpalia, a partner in Vastu-Shilpa Consultants in Ahmedabad, India, Heather Dodd from Savage & Dodd Architects in Johannesburg and Kevin McGarry from Architects Collaborative in Durban.