Competition brief
Central Square is the beating heart of Cardiff, a key arrival point for visitors and a vibrant urban space for the city’s residents, as the city continues to grow and modernise.
Imagine an opportunity to reimagine and enhance this pivotal public space. Perhaps to serve its role as a civic, cultural, and transport hub.
This competition invites innovative, sustainable, and inclusive design ideas to evolve Central Square into a world-class public realm that reflects the spirit of Cardiff and enhances the everyday experience for all who use it.
Organiser
This competition is hosted by The Royal Society of Architects in Wales (RSAW).
RSAW strives to represent the voice of the architectural profession in Wales, bringing influence to bear on Welsh Government and related agencies. We promote the value of good design through awards schemes, exhibitions, festivals and conferences, regularly working in partnership with other professional bodies and Welsh national organisations.
Objectives
Participants are asked to propose a vision for Central Square that:
- enhances the public realm as a welcoming and inclusive space.
- integrates with existing infrastructure (Cardiff Central Station, BBC Cymru Wales HQ, Capital Quarter).
- improves pedestrian and cyclist connectivity.
- celebrates Cardiff’s heritage, culture, and future ambitions.
- promotes sustainability, biodiversity, and climate resilience.
- provides flexibility for events, gatherings, and everyday activities.
Site context
Central Square is located directly in front of Cardiff Central Station and serves as a major gateway to the city. Recent developments have introduced significant architectural landmarks. The area experiences high footfall, especially during commuting hours, sporting events, and festivals.
Key neighbouring features include:
- Cardiff Central Railway Station
- BBC Cymru Wales Headquarters
- Principality Stadium
- St Mary Street and the city centre retail core
Scope: This is a conceptual design competition, focusing on Central Square, with the option to propose linkages to adjacent areas (e.g., Wood Street, Westgate Street, the River Taff).
Flexibility: Designs must take into account the need to maintain flexibility within the space, allowing for crowd control operations that take place during large-scale events held at the neighbouring Principality Stadium.
Eligibility: The competition is open to RIBA/RSAW members (including students) and chartered practices
Submission requirements: A1 Design board outlining the concept, key diagrams, and visualisations.
Evaluation criteria
- Quality and originality of design vision
- Responsiveness to the site and context
- Innovation in public realm design
- Environmental and social sustainability
- Clarity and communication of the proposal
Key dates
Submission deadline: 1 October 2025
Jury review: 10 October 2025
Winners announced: Design week celebrations, 10 October 2025
All entries will be displayed and the winning entry will be announced during RSAW’s final Design Week event at The Parkgate Hotel on the evening of Friday 10 October, and online via RSAW’s social media accounts.
For further information and queries please contact RSAW@riba.org
