Designed in Harmony. Reimagined by younger generations.
The GEAR reflects Kajima’s vision of harmony within the urban landscape. Through this contest, we invite students to reinterpret this vision and uncover new perspectives on architecture.
Portfolio
Gain hands- on experience photographing a real architectural landmark and develop portfolio-worthy works that showcase your creative perspective on the built environment.
Recognition
A total prize pool of 3,500 SGD across 7 awards
- Gold – 1,000 SGD
- Silver – 750 SGD
- Bronze – 500 SGD
- Audience favourite (500 SGD)
- 3 Runner-Ups (250 SGD)
Exhibition
Selected entries to be featured in exhibitions and The GEAR’s platforms.
Network
Connected with architectural and built environment professionals
WHO CAN PARTICIPATE?
The Contest is open to applicants of all nationalities, ethnicities, and genders who are currently enrolled as full-time students in a polytechnic or university in Singapore at the time of submission.
Proof of Enrollment status may be required.
Sign up for photo taking tour session. Choose a time slot from July 1st to 7th
Photo submission requirements: Minimum of 3 up to 5 photos
Organized by
Academic Partners
contest themes
Lines in Motion
Capturing the building’s dynamic energy and the constant flow of human curiosity.
Framed by Design
Using architectural shapes to tenderly border everyday life and fleeting moments.
Rhythms of Space
Chasing the dance of light and shadow around the people who bring the space to life.
Open Themes
Trusting your instinct to capture the unique, quiet stories of your personal journey.
contest timeline
tour sessions & photo-taking
Tour Sessions
Each slot accommodates a limited number of participants on a first-come, first-served basis.
Access to Zone E is available only through this tour session on Sunday.
Participants must register for their preferred tour slots in advance. Each participant may attend up to two tour sessions.
Self-access (exterior only)
Participants who are unable to attend as scheduled tour may take photographs of the building exterior (Zone A) on their own time.
To do so:
Notify The GEAR organising team by email at least 24 hours before your intended visit, including your (a) name, (b) planned date, and (c) time of visit.
The organiser will inform on-site security in advance to allow photography of the exterior of The GEAR.
PHOTO SUBMISSION
jUDGE panel
Norio Kita
Senior Executive Officer & General Manager, Architecture Design Division, Kajima Corporation
Melvin Tan
Immediate Past President, Singapore Institute of Architecture
Luke Wu
Managing Director, The GEAR by Kajima
Kevin Siyuan
Architecture Photographer, Shiya Creative Studio
Shuichi Oishi
Managing Executive Officer, Kajima Corporation
Chief Executive Officer, Kajima Development
jUDGing criteria
25%
Visual Aesthetics & Coherency
Overall visual impact, tonal harmony, consistency of style across submitted images
25%
Thematic Responsiveness
How well the photograph(s) communicate the chosen theme and capture the essence of THE GEAR
30%
Technical Competency
Exposure, focus, depth of field, composition, use of light and shadow
20%
Innovation & Creativity
Originality of perspective, creative use of architectural elements, unexpected view points
Judging Process
Stage 1 Longlist Review
All valid submissions are reviewed by The GEAR organising team.
Stage 2 Finalist Selection
The jury panel reviews the longlist and selects six (6) finalists to the final pitching session
Final Selection
Finalists present their work and quick pitch on July 24, 2026
Award Ceremony
Winning entries will be announced during the closing award presentation ceremony.
Rules & Regulations
All participants are required to read and understand the regulations before submission. By entering the competition, participants are deemed to have agreed to and accepted all stated terms and requirements.