Time is running out to enter the 2013 CSR Cemintel 9 Dots Award with submissions closing on 8 September.

The award offers architects, designers, building designers and relevant students the opportunity to create a single or multi-residential design that addresses the need to increase density in both urban and suburban settings.

Entrants in the competition will be competing for the chance to win an all-expenses-included, architectural trip to the USA or money towards student fees.

The 2012 9 Dots Award winner – Rana Abboud, urges architects, designers or students who are considering entering the 2013 9 Dots Award to "give it a go".

“On a personal level, winning the 9 Dots Award gave my design confidence a boost; professionally, the award took me on a once-in-a-lifetime trip that enhanced my understanding and appreciation for modernist architecture,” Abboud says.

“If you enjoy design, then you have nothing to lose. Develop a clear design concept and showcase the most important aspects of your design in your presentation.”

Similar to 2012 first prize, which entitled Abboud to a 17-day architectural tour of Europe, the 2013 winner will be awarded a 17-day guided tour led by Sydney architect Malcolm Carver, visiting the great modern and contemporary buildings of the 20 and 21st Century in the USA.

Arriving in Los Angeles and departing from New York, the tour will also visit Dallas, Houston and Chicago, and includes all internal flights, coach transfer, breakfast and first class accommodation.

“The overseas trip brought home how rich and at times unexpected the real-world experience of a ‘familiar building’ could be. The places I visited were tremendously inspiring and learning about the architects at such close quarters humanised them for me,” Abboud says.

In addition, Abboud’s career has gone from strength to strength since winning the 2012 9 Dots award.

“I have been fortunate to have been awarded the National Association of Women in Construction (NAWIC) International Women’s Day 2013 scholarship earlier this year and was very pleased to have my installation ‘DIGITALIS’ selected as part of VIVID light festival in Sydney.”

For all terms and conditions, and to register, visit the Cemintel 9 Dots website.