Framed by Actor-Network Theory and rooted in theories of design methodology, rather than studying the architectural competition as closed and single achievements such as for example an urban laboratory, the architectural competition is here perceived as a central link within the building process, which in turn is conceived of as a chain of translations. In doing so, it enables a better understanding of the impact of competitions on urban development and the ways that building performances and qualities are translated through planning, design and construction phases respectively into buildings, infrastructures and the built environment.