Steps to Enter
A solid presentation helps the AURORA Award judges see how good your work really is. Please read through the following tips as they may help you complete your entry portfolio as effectively as possible.
PLAN AHEAD
Review entry categories early on and make a plan to complete entry at least 2 weeks ahead of deadline. DEADLINE TO ENTER: April 24, 2010
WATCH FOR SIMPLE ERRORS
Simple errors are easy to make; do not list a builder/designer or architect on any printed materials, check the minimum and maximum number of images that are required in each category; mark “before” and “after” images clearly in categories 26-27 and 83-84; did you fill out the entry forms completely (i.e. - sales price, square footage, complete project information)
MARKETING STATEMENTS
Explain the design/planning objectives within your marketing statement and keep to 200 words. DO NOT write about a room unless an image of that room is included on your CD. Have someone read your statement aloud to make sure it conveys what you intend. Cleanly type the forms online and proof read carefully.
ENTRY FORMS - Entering the 2010 Aurora Award is now completely done by online access. No hard copy of the entry portfolio needs to be sent in. Please download a copy for your records and in case of questions or concerns. The entry application process can be viewed and updated by the entrant until 5 pm April 24, 2010.
PHOTOGRAPHY
Book your photographer early! Remember that they are in great demand and their time fills in quickly. Visit www.theauroras.com for a selection of architectural photographers who have worked on past Aurora entries.
Focus interior architecture on architectural interest: room volume, interior details, sculptured details, relationship between rooms. Do not emphasize furniture.
Focus exterior photography on the strength of the elevation, entry details, streetscape, and neighborhood character and community interest, ect.
NUMBER YOUR IMAGES AS FOLLOWS: your entry portfolio number followed by a space then CAPITAL Letter followed by room name: e.g. 01-001 A DR RM (this is your entry number assigned to you plus Alpha Letter and a room description) Images labeled as IMG will be given one opportunity to fix prior to disqualification from the program. Entries that are disqualified DO NOT RECEIVE A REFUND.
Talk to your photographer about the quality of the digital image and FOLLOW instructions for digital requirements.
ILLUSTRATIONS, SITE, FLOOR AND LANDSCAPE PLANS
Supply PDF drawings that are clean and easy to review. DO NOT submit a drawing if the paper is would print larger than an 8 ½” X 11” standard paper size. 8 X 10 PDF IMAGES ARE ACCEPTABLE as DIGITAL IMAGES. If you can enrich an illustration with color or shade coding, please do. On site plans use a color key to help judges locate various housing types, commercial uses, open spaces, etc.
Supply DIGITAL PDF IMAGES of furnished floors (when applicable) to help judges see how the space planning works.
Supply DIGITAL PDF IMAGES of color landscape plans (when applicable) to help judges see the overall vision of the landscaping.
Call Lynne Edwards, Aurora Awards Director with any questions prior to completing your portfolio at 1-800-261-9447 ext 109 or by email at ledwards@fhba.com.
Best of Luck with your Aurora Awards Submittal!