FUTURE DESIGNERS COMPETITION
Back in October 2024, we launched our first-ever free-to-access competition, open to young people across Liverpool in Years 7-11. It aimed to support emerging talent interested in design, architecture, places and the built environment.
We asked the young people to imagine how Williamson Square could look and be activated for future use. We proposed that they think about community, nature, creativity, and connections and how one or all of those ideas can create a better place for people. Their proposals needed to include a structure/s or a pavilion/s within the design, acting as a focal point within the square. Entries were shortlisted and judged by a panel of industry professionals, all of whom had direct experience with working on Williamson Square.
The shortlisted entries were then exhibited at Cass Arts in the heart of Liverpool. On display to the public from February 24th to March 2nd, and for many, it was their first time exhibiting work publicly. It was wonderful to see their work on display and for them to have their families, friends, and the general public see it on display too.
Thank you to the University of Liverpool for hosting us and giving the young people an insight into what higher education is like.
On Thursday, 27th February, we held our first-ever Future Designers Awards ceremony at Adagio Aparthotel in Liverpool City Centre. An evening designed to celebrate young designers from across Liverpool and their redesigns of Williamson Square.
The event began with a vibrant display of the students’ work. Models, drawings, and digital presentations lined the room, each proposal telling a unique vision for Williamson Square. From designing more sustainable squares to reimagining public spaces fostering community connection, the students’ ideas were both ambitious and grounded in real-world challenges.
There was real excitement in the room as they received their awards in recognition of their creativity, hard work and talent. From industry professionals to families and friends, everyone enjoyed seeing the different projects, all showcasing unique ideas about how the space could be better activated. The event was a big success, making it a lovely time for everyone.
Huge thank you to the judges Andrea Nixon, Eddie Pugh, Kayleigh Formby & Mat Giles for giving us and the young people their time to review, providing insightful feedback on each short-listed entry and announcing each category’s winner.
Future Designers was funded by PLACED with support from Liverpool BID Company, Liverpool Everyman & Playhouse, MGMA Architects Limited, Layer Studio and Cass Art.
Photos by Chloe Lloyd.