Arcbazar is a reverse auction style site that allows people interested in remodeling their homes, to get multiple design concepts. It works like this:
You upload your design requirements to the site including a "prize" for the winning design.
A community of designers from around the world submit actual designs to you.
You pick the best design and that designer is awarded the prize.
My impression is that it is a cool idea but there are some logistical challenges: design can be heavily influenced by local permitting/zoning regulations so a designer in the UK (for example) may not be as well suited for a design project in Los Angeles than a designer in Los Angeles. I'm curious to know what other people think about the concept.
Do you think it's a good idea? Would you participate in a design contest with designers from around the world?
I think that arcbazar is a disgrace to all design professionals. It is ridiculous to think that designers from around the world can come up with thoughtful, creative and economical design solutions from thousands of miles away, site unseen. If the website were just about generating ideas that can be passed along to a local design professional, I would not have a problem with it. My real problem is that arcbazar gives its clients the impression, and its clients typically demand fully developed solutions almost ready for construction. (Just give the plans to your General Contractor, to paraphrase arcbazar) I have contacted arcbazar directly about my concerns and they have not responded.
I really wish that its clients would carefully consider the award money they are putting up for these designs and consider looking for local talent instead.
And no, I do not think its a good idea, and no I would not participate in their design competitions. I would prefer to focus my efforts on my actual clients.
I have to agree with Thomas, the site over sells it ability to properly design a project site unseen. The client needs to understand the process of design and take it as a stepping point not a solution. Local designers and professionals familar with local building codes would offer a much more complete design package.
I do like the site for the person that hasn't a clue. Maybe then they can take some homework to a pro for final design options and to complete the process. How many times have clients come to you wanting design help with out a clue of what it is they want?
Thomas also said " It is ridiculous to think that designers from around the world can come up with thoughtful, creative and economical design solutions from thousands of miles away, site unseen." Nonsense. A person with the proper knowledge and expertise can provide a great deal of insite and prefessional design experience. The problem is do you really know who is doing the design work? Is it the same person being promoted by the site or a understudy/intern?
Overall I like sites like these you simply need to understand what it is you are gettting.
We have worked with ARCBAZAR. There service is great, you get alot for your money & several thought out options. Only a designer / Architect will understand what it means to be involved in competitions. Contractors are used to deal with one architect, with some dificulties to design concept & plans. Owner contacts ARCBAZAR then look for a reputable contractor to implement there concept / plans, working with original designer and modify plans if need be. At this age & times, pictures & google can provide you a full view of any site & surrounding any where on the globe. Architects / designers do not have to be on site, just open minds.
IMHO Guys, I think you should try cocontest (http://www.cocontest.com/) is an eurpean platform preatty similar to Arcbazar but with some differences that make it better. Anyway I think that both idea are revolutionary and are changing the architectural market.
I think in the future architectue will move online in some ways. All jobs have to be updated to match the time costumes and also architecture have to, otherwise will die. I would like to notice you also this site WWW.COCONTEST.COM that offers the same model but only for home decor.
