Back with a bark for 2023 and at the heart of Goodwoof will be Britain’s leading kennel design competition: Barkitecture presented by Mastercard. The brainchild of Kevin McCloud MBE and The Duke of Richmond, Barkitecture is a unique competition showcasing the very best of kennel architecture with some of the world’s most renowned architects turning their talents to some truly pawsome kennels.

The theme for this year’s competition is ‘A Companion Piece – Dogs at Work,’ and Goodwoof has invited the crème de la crème of the design industry to showcase their skills. ‘Dogs at Work’ asks entrants to consider the important role dogs play in our lives and how much they contribute to our wellbeing, whilst re-examining the spaces we create for them in our homes and workplaces.

Above: 2023 entrant – George and James Architects Ltd The Agility Desk

Competing for the ‘Kennel Design Award’, registered architects and design practices have been able to choose between creating either a single or a double occupancy kennel for dogs at work, with a budget of £250. Each kennel will then be auctioned on the Sunday of the event by Bonhams, Goodwood’s official auction partner, raising funds for Goodwoof’s official charity partner, Pets As Therapy.

Raising funds for Dogs Trust

This year, the event hopes to build on the success of the 2022 competition where a phenomenal £30,150 was raised for Dogs Trust. Last year’s judges, led by Kevin McCloud, included comedian Bill Bailey, Design Museum CEO Stephen Bayley, and President of the Royal Horticultural Society, Keith Weed. Birds Portchmouth Russum Architect’s Bonehenge was selected as the winning kennel – created from fortified timber dog bones, the elliptical design was inspired by its occupant Illy’s (Blue Roan Cocker Spaniel) hereditary characteristic of circling prior to settling down to rest.

Children aged 4-12 years can also get involved this year with Goodwoof’s Junior Barkitechture Competition which invites them to design a kennel in which to share part of the school day with their favourite dog. Kevin McCloud will select the winning kennel which will be built and displayed for all visitors to Goodwoof to enjoy.

Barkitecture joins many attractions set to take the event by storm this year amongst world-class competitions, trials, demonstrations and workshops for everyone and their four-legged friends! Other highlights around the event include Fido’s Lido, Literary Corner, Chien Charmant, the Wellness Centre presented by MARS Petcare and much more.

Goodwoof takes place Saturday 20 & Sunday 21 May.

There is a new early bird window before Friday 21 April and can be purchased at Goodwood.com or by calling the Ticket Office on  01243 755055. Children aged 12 and under and dogs go free.

Upcoming events are a regular feature in Premier Magazine. You can browse the current edition HERE