NEW DELHI: For the construction of a multi-storey office complex, East Delhi Municipal Corporation has come up with an innovative idea. The agency has decided to hold a contest to finalize the design of the new complex. Apart from the contract, the corporation will give a cash prize of Rs 1 lakh to the winner.

The 10-storey office complex, which will be built in Shahdara, is expected to boost the corporation's revenue. Spread over 7,132 sq m, the complex will also have shopping space. Officials say the architects will be asked to submit a model of their design along with the financial bid. "Till now, we used to ask for only the layout. Now, architects will have to submit a model. This will help us visualize how the building will look after completion," said S S Yadav, commissioner, East corporation.

The corporation has also relaxed the eligibility criteria. Any architect with a minimum five years' experience can participate in the contest. "This time we are not taking into account the architects' annual income or the firm's turnover. This is a good opportunity for young architects; it will also given us more options,'' said Yadav. Seventy percent weight will be attached to the design and 30% to the financial bid.

The corporation will pay Rs 1 lakh each to the top three designs, and Rs 50,000 each to the next two designs worth commendation. "Architects usually have to spend Rs 40,000-50,000 for making the model,'' said Yadav.