Protecting New Yorkers from falling debris and rain during construction is a necessity in a continually developing city, but NY building scaffolding is generally considered an inconvenient eyesore. Enter the UrbanSHED International Design Competition, selecting top designs that combine safety with aesthetic pleasantries. According to UrbanSHED; "Competitors will generate innovative, compelling and environmentally friendly proposals to thoroughly re-imagine temporary sidewalk shed design while improving the pedestrian experience." Among other criteria, the designs must be a positive addition to New York's urban landscape, increase light and air to the sidewalk, direct pedestrian traffic, improve the pedestrian experience and enable easy access. Three finalists have been selected to enter Stage Two of the competition process, and a grand winner will receive financial support and the incorporation of a prototype of their design in Lower Manhattan. [via Cool Hunting]