The world of competitions is a mystery to many. For the young, jobbing architect they can seem like a veil separating them from the inner sanctum of prestige projects and peer approval.

Some see them as rigged, with well-connected judges making sure their starchitect friends come out on top. But for others, architectural competitions represent a genuine opportunity to break through in a crowded field – not a stitch-up, rather a chance for young practices to get that high-profile commission that helps to make their name.

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