American architects frequently complain that we lack effective design competitions in this country. We frequently point to Europe, where the widespread use of competitions by public and private clients apparently yields positive results, encouraging creative ideas and leveling the playing field for younger practitioners. Although these events are sometimes fraught with their own issues, such as fairness or adequate compensation or politicizing, we are constantly seeking new ways to open up the process.

A competition recently took place in St. Louis that, while small, might serve as a model for other cities: It worked like a textbook case, with annotated lessons along the path, so take note. The primary player was the Washington University School of Medicine, which partnered with AIA St. Louis. Here’s what happened.