Last years' SHAC '09 competition saw some exciting collaboration across the design, environmental and scientific communities, with a broad spectrum of institutions working together on a wide range of innovative design-build projects.  You can browse some results of the competition here which is highly recommended for anybody with an interest in what's happening on the sustainable drawing-board as well as on (and in) the ground of New Zealand.

To get started in SHACD '10, have a read of the existing forums which have been set up to establish direction, trajectory and some ideas, as well as helping to form some idea of who might be involved, so you can find your local posse.


Some images from Wellington team 'The Plant Room' of SHAC '09.


The Seat/Wall/Planter/Worm-Farm from the Plant Room looking great at the New Dowse.

Here's the calendar of SHAC '10 'Steps' you need to know about:

1. Express your intent to form a team and develop a proposal – now
    •   Post an idea for discussion on the SHAC forums today!
    •   post it now
    •   ask friends, colleagues to respond

2 – Submit team proposal.
    •   creating your group and post your proposal on your SHAC group page
    •   due by 29 July 2010

3 – Detailed Concept, due 1 October 2010, for by Regional Workshops
    •   workshops in Auckland, Hamilton, Wellington, Christchurch, Dunedin, and Invercargill


Here's a nice overview from the SHAC team, led by Tim Bishop, the National Coordinator and man behind the wheel -or maybe the guy with his foot on the accelerator.

"SHAC challenges teams to build or retrofit a more sustainable house, building, office, classroom or community hall. Form a tertiary, industry, or community-led team, and work collaboratively, involve young people and communicate widely about your designs.
The aim is efficient, affordable, adaptable, durable, simple, healthy, and delightful buildings and neighbourhoods with focus on regenerative communities. Join in this national project with tertiary, industry, and community-based teams designing and building or retrofitting a more sustainable habitat for their community."


Good luck, and keep busy.

www.shac.org.nz