Design Contest
As Gaeilge: Comórtas Dearaidh
Also known as: Design Competition
Last reviewed April 2026
A competition where suppliers submit design proposals (architecture, planning, data) judged by an independent jury, with a prize or follow-on commission.
A procurement format under Regulations 78 to 82 of S.I. 284/2016 used mainly for architectural, planning, engineering and data-processing work. The contracting authority publishes the rules, awards prizes to the best designs as judged by an independent jury, and may then award the follow-on services contract to the winner via a negotiated procedure without further competition. Used in Ireland by local authorities and the OPW for landmark public buildings, public realm schemes, and bridge designs.
Sources and legal basis
Primary legislation and official guidance. Always confirm the current text on the source before relying on it.
Related terms
Negotiated Procedure
A flexible EU procedure where the authority negotiates terms with shortlisted bidders: only allowed in defined circumstances.
Office of Government Procurement (OGP)
Ireland's central purchasing body, established 2014: manages national frameworks and sets procurement policy.
Contract Notice
The formal advertisement of a procurement opportunity: above-threshold notices go to eTenders and TED.
Contracting Authority
A public body that buys goods, services, or works with public funds: departments, councils, the HSE, ETBs, etc.