What is it?
Bark + Build is a doghouse and cat condo design/build competition between professional teams consisting of architects and contractors. The finished doghouses and cat condos are displayed at NorthPark Center in Dallas during the second half of November and judged for design and construction quality. The doghouses and cat condos are auctioned, with all proceeds going to the SPCA of Texas.
Want to purchase a doghouse or cat condo?
An online auction will open on November 17 and will continue until the close of the Exhibition on December 3, 2023. Anyone can participate in the auction. All proceeds will benefit the SPCA of Texas. The winner can claim the doghouse or cat condo at the conclusion of the Exhibition or before 10:00am on the following day.
Want to participate in the competition?
Any team comprised of at least one member of an architecture firm and one member of a contractor firm is welcome to participate. Teams may include members of firms that support the AEC community. Teams must register between May 18 and June 13. Information packets with more details are available on the registration page. A mandatory Team Captains Meeting will be held on June 20 to review the competition details and answer any questions.
If you want to participate, but are looking for a partner firm or licensed professional, email dallasbarknbuild@gmail.com and let us know what you are looking for. We will try to match you with others who are looking for partners.
RSVP FOR OUR KICKOFF EVENT >
REGISTER FOR THE COMPETITION HERE >
When will the winners be announced?
Winners determined by a jury will be announced at the Awards Party on December 3. The winner of the People’s Choice award will be determined by online auction votes and will be announced by SPCA December 7.
Still have questions?
Contact the Bark + Build Committee at dallasbarknbuild@gmail.com.
2023 Team Registration Packet
Top Dog Award
This is the ‘People’s Choice’ award. The doghouse entry that receives the most votes on the auction site will be deemed the “Top Dog”. This award is presented by SPCA of Texas and will not be awarded until after the doghouses have been removed from display at NorthPark Center.
Best in Show Award
The “Best in Show” award will be presented as the overall winner of the Bark + Build design/build competition and overall jurors’ favorite. This entry will epitomize the best overall design and construction detailing in the pack.
Hot Dog Award
The “Hot Dog” award will be presented as the overall runner-up to the winner of the Bark + Build design/build competition and as second place winner.
Green Paw Award
The “Green Paw” award will be presented at the juror’s discretion to the best overall entry that captures the spirit of sustainable design and construction with clearly recognizable and distinguishable features or materials for the conscientious pet owner.
Teacup Pup Award (Small)
The “Teacup Pup” award will be presented to the team that presents the best design for small dogs. Designs should feature big-dog creativity in a pint-sized package.
Size: 3’l x 3’w x 3’h max
Weight: 200 lb max
Cat Condo Award (Small)
Designs should embrace the active, agile and curious nature of cats.
Size: 2’l x 2’w x 5’h max
Weight: 200 lb max
Furr-niture Award (Medium)
Designs should combine furniture-like aesthetic with the functionality of a doghouse, cat condo, or a combination of the two.
Size: 4’l x 3’w x 4’h max
Weight: 350 lb max
Playful Pals Award (Medium)
Designs should embrace and feature structures where play is the primary focus for your favorite feline or Fido.
Size: 4’l x 3’w x 4’h max
Weight: 350 lb max
Big Dog Award (Large)
The “Big Dog” award will be presented to the team that presents the best design for large dogs. Designs should feature king-sized concepts with large dogs in mind.
Size: 5’l x 5’w x 5’h max
Weight: 450lb max
All teams are encouraged to utilize local, responsibly-sourced materials and embrace sustainable practices in both design and construction of their entries.
