When it comes to architecture competitions, can you really compete without high-quality renderings? We analyzed 350 winning competition projects to see if and how they used 3D renderings. Ready for the insights?
The Role of Renderings in Architecture Competitions
Public architecture competitions have long been a primary avenue for securing new projects and establishing a firm’s reputation. Over recent years, though, competition has grown fierce. With fewer public competitions after the 2008 housing crisis, and a constant influx of participants, standing out in a crowded field is now more challenging than ever.
At Render4tomorrow, we believe that informed decisions start with data. By analyzing what makes top competition entries shine, we empower our clients with actionable insights for success. Here’s what we found.
Renderings, Illustrations, and Non-3D Content: What Do Winning Entries Show?
To get a clear picture, we reviewed 350 award-winning architectural competition boards from sources like Espazium, ArchDaily, Dezeen, and Divisare. We then divided the visual content into three categories:
3D Renderings: Photorealistic and non-realistic
Illustrations: Conceptual or hand-drawn visualizations
No 3D Content: Projects that did not use 3D imagery
The results spoke volumes. Of the projects we studied:
77% included photorealistic or high-quality renderings
18% featured illustrations or conceptual visuals
Only 4% lacked 3D content entirely
This data shows how essential quality visual content is to grab attention and communicate your project’s unique value.
5 Tips for Creating Winning Architectural Competition Boards
With fierce competition in mind, here are our top strategies to make your boards unforgettable:
1. Less is More: Prioritize Quality Over Quantity
Imagine this: a client once asked us for 9 images to support their medium-scale school project for a competition. When our quote exceeded their budget, they opted to use a high number of “budget” images over fewer, top-quality visuals.
But here’s what our study revealed: winning projects with high-quality renderings only used an average of 2.97 images per panel. The takeaway? Identify the 2-3 visuals that best showcase your project’s strengths.
For a school design, for example, try focusing on a single or two great exterior shots to illustrate how the building integrates with its surroundings, plus two interior shots—one of the entrance (often a defining space) and one of a classroom showing how natural light and façade design enhance the interior.
2. Pass the “30-Second Test”
Remember the Guggenheim Helsinki competition? Over 1,700 proposals were submitted, and only a handful captured the jury’s attention at first glance. That first 30 seconds can make or break a project.
When designing your layout, ask yourself if the jury can grasp your project’s main idea in half a minute. If not, rethink your approach. Your boards should be clear and captivating, even at a quick glance.
3. Prioritize Storytelling Over Pure Photorealism
When competing, photorealistic images aren’t enough. Storytelling is what truly resonates with jurors. Instead of merely showcasing a static design, try to capture the future life of the project.
For example, if it’s a school, show students enjoying outdoor physical education at midday, or capture the calm of early morning as parents drop off their children.
By illustrating real-life scenarios, you’re helping the jury envision the space’s function and feel, connecting them to the project’s story. This approach also emphasizes the purpose and experience of the design beyond its aesthetic.
4. Carefully Select Your Perspective to Enhance the Story
Choosing the right perspective is crucial for setting the emotional tone and narrative flow of your presentation. Different perspectives can either elevate the viewer's engagement or dilute the message. Here are some strategic tips:
Bird’s-Eye View: For urban or large-scale projects, an aerial perspective showcases how the design interacts with its surroundings. This viewpoint can demonstrate the broader context, including site orientation, traffic flow, and natural elements, illustrating how the project integrates seamlessly within its environment.
Human-Level Perspective: An eye-level perspective, on the other hand, makes the project feel relatable, bringing viewers “into” the space. This view is especially powerful for interior spaces or smaller structures, creating an emotional connection and making the design feel tangible.
Close-Ups and Vignettes: Use detailed close-ups or small scene vignettes to convey the unique aspects of your design, such as intricate material choices, lighting effects, or even the interaction between people and space. For instance, a close-up of an innovative wall texture can hint at tactile experiences or sustainability features.
Selecting perspectives that serve a specific purpose will highlight the most essential aspects of your design, helping the jury connect emotionally and intellectually with your project’s goals.
5. Design for Viewing at Different Distances: Think Big and Small
Your submission board will be viewed from varying distances, whether it’s from across a room or up close. To maximize impact, ensure your board is both visually striking from afar and detailed up close. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Impact from Afar: Imagine jurors standing a few meters away from your board alongside dozens of others. A strong, dominant image that reflects the project’s core concept should stand out, even at this distance. For example, a bold exterior rendering can set the stage, showing the project’s relationship to its surroundings.
Optimize for Visual Flow: Arrange elements so the viewer’s eye naturally flows from the focal image to supporting details. A clear layout with plenty of white space creates breathing room, making the board inviting to read. Avoid clutter, and be intentional with each element’s placement.
Designing for varying viewing distances ensures that your submission not only draws attention initially but also invites closer inspection, increasing your chances of making a lasting impression on the jury.
The Reality: Can You Win an Architecture Competition Without High-End Renderings?
The answer? Yes, but it’s unlikely. Our research shows that 77% of winning projects used high-quality 3D renderings, proving that visuals play a significant role in capturing the jury’s attention and making your project memorable.
Creating a strong entry requires time and resources, from entry fees and model building to hours spent on design and layouts. Investing in professional renderings increases your project’s visual impact, giving it the edge needed to stand out from the competition.