We’re seeking a designer/maker to create bespoke garden furniture for the Courtyard Garden of our dance studios. Apply by Monday 24 November, 12 noon.
Installed in Spring 2026, this commission will mark the 20th anniversary of our building and launch the Courtyard Garden as a playful and welcoming space for all our building users.
We want to create furniture that supports the multiple functions of our courtyard and embraces curiosity, connection and welcome in its design. We imagine modular, moveable pieces that can be easily assembled in different and inviting ways. This adaptable furniture may also offer pockets of privacy to those seeking a moment of calm, or intimate events.
Primary funding for this commission has been awarded by Southwark Council as part of the Cleaner Greener Safer programme.
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DESIGN REQUIREMENTS
The furniture design must:
- reflect the values of SDS.
- be usable by people of different ages and physical ability.
- be easy to clean and maintain, and be durable.
- be safe and secure.
- consider the courtyard conditions, such as slopes and weather.
- adhere to Southwark Council’s public art policy.
- adhere to SDS’s policies and procedures.
We encourage designs that:
- use of sustainable reused, recycled, and/or locally sourced materials
- are modular and suitable for different uses and users.
budget
The total budget, inclusive of all fees, labour and materials, is £9,000. The budget will be managed in conversation with Siobhan Davies Studios.
HOW TO APPLY
Please read the application pack before making your proposal.
To make a proposal, we ask that applicants prepare a PDF, of up to 4 pages, that includes:
- 200-word biographies of the project team
- 200 words about your practice and relevant experience
- 300 words on why you are interested in this project
- Visualisations/designs to scale, with key dimensions
- A timeline of design, construction and installation
- A budget, including designer/maker fees, materials, and production
- Suggestions for maintenance
You will receive an automatic email confirming your submission. If you don’t receive this please check your spam.
Who can apply?
The competition is open to students, emerging architects, established architects, and designers.
Makers from other disciplines (theatre, set designers, installation artists, and sculpturers) are also encouraged to apply, with the understanding that the furniture must meet the demands of the brief.
We welcome applications from local organisations, collaborators and collectives.
Application Timeline
| 2 October 2025 | Submissions open |
| 24 November | Submissions close at noon |
| w/c 8 December | Follow up conversations as needed |
| w/c 15 December | All applicants notified |
| 21 June 2026 | Provisional date for Summer Celebrations in the courtyard |
If you have any questions about this commission and making an application, please email contact@siobhandavies.com. You can also phone us on 020 7091 9650, or come by our studios in person.