Combo Competitions' latest ideas challenge asks participants to "rethink refueling" in a competition which seeks to re-imagine the ubiquitous filling station. The historical rise of this 20th century typology, from simple fuel dispensers to palatial rest-stops on the highway, grew with the proliferation of the car and became symbols for societal progression, personal status, and "a bright future." Although the number of vehicles worldwide "surpassed one billion in 2010, there has been a steady decline in filling stations since the end of the last century." As such, perhaps this is the time to start to rethink how these fragments of the international mobility infrastructure operate?
This competition asks designers to generate a universal filling station design that is easily recognised regardless of its location, while maintaining visibility. The proposal must be visualised on two sites - one in rural Colombia, and the second of the participants' choosing (either rural or urban). Furthermore, "concepts should address different types of fuel (gasoline, electricity, hydrogen etc.) and their status around the world, as well as potential additional services and facilities."
You can download the brief here. The competition opened on January 19th 2015. The registration fee is £50 until April 19th, when standard registration ends and late registration begins (fee £70). Last day of registration is May 10th, one week before the submission deadline, which is on May 17th 2015.
Previous Combo Competitions have included the London Cinema Challenge, Faith! A Place of Worship in London, and Hello Nature!
Read more about Combo Competitions' "emphasis on the idea":
