June 16, 2025

Call for Entries: AIA Newark & Suburban Hosts Inaugural Barkitecture Design Competition

AIA Newark & Suburban Architects (AIANS) is excited to announce Barkitecture, a unique, pet-centric design competition and event, uniting creativity, compassion, and community. The event invites architects, designers, and contractors to design and build imaginative pet houses to support local animal welfare organizations.

Barkitecture will culminate in a festive, indoor/outdoor, family and dog-friendly event on Saturday, October 4, 2025, from 1-5 PM, at the Union Congregational Church in Upper Montclair, NJ. Guests will enjoy a showcase of these custom-designed pet shelters, which
will be sold through a silent auction. One hundred percent of the net proceeds will go directly to three non-profit animal rescue organizations: Rescue Haven Foundation, PAWS Montclair, and Associated Humane Societies of Newark.

An entry may be a doghouse, cat condo, birdhouse, etc., or a furniture piece conceived for pet enjoyment. It does not need to withstand long-term exterior use. Structures should not exceed 5’ x 5’ x 5’ in size, must be freestanding and stable, and should be easily transportable by two people. Each entry must be accompanied by a 24” x 36” presentation board outlining the concept, materials, and features of the design.

The competition is open to individuals or teams from architecture, design, construction, and related fields. The registration deadline is June 30, 2025, and the entry fee is $125 per structure.

Entries will be judged and awards given in several categories, including Best in Show, Greenest Paw (most sustainable design), Craziest Cat (most unique concept), Fat Cat (highest silent auction bid), People’s Choice, and Graphic Bark (best presentation board and signage).

In addition to entrants, AIANS welcomes sponsors who are interested in supporting this community event while gaining meaningful local exposure. Sponsorship packages include logo placement on event signage, the AIANS website, and social media, along with recognition throughout the event and in event photography. Sponsors may also host on-site activities. All sponsorship proceeds go directly to our partner rescue organizations.

To register, become a sponsor, or learn more, visit aians.org. For questions, contact Robert Epstein at director@aians.org.

AIA Newark & Suburban Architects
P.O. Box 43722
Upper Montclair, NJ 07043

T (973) 771-6881
www.aians.org
E director@aians.org

About AIA Newark & Suburban Architects:
AIA Newark & Suburban Architects is one of the largest and most active sections in AIA New Jersey, serving architects and allied professionals across Essex, Union, Morris, and Warren Counties. Our members are committed to making a positive difference in the
communities where we live and work.
Through public programs, professional development, advocacy, and service initiatives, we foster connections between architects and the communities they serve. We believe in the power of design to improve quality of life, promote sustainability, and strengthen
neighborhoods.
Our Mission: AIA Newark & Suburban Architects connects members of the architectural profession and the communities they serve through education, service, and support of thoughtful design of the built environment.

By Stacey Ruhle Kliesch, AIA, AIA NJ Advocacy Consultant | Posted in AIA Newark and Suburban, Members & the Community | Tagged: #AIANS, BARKitecture | Comments (0)