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.
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.