The six architects competing for the �11.5m project have put their drawings and models on show at four different locations.

The shortlist was chosen after an international contest and the designs will be judged a panel headed by former Prime Minister Lord Callaghan.

This red-domed building is nicknamed "the alarm button"

Anxious to avoid repeating the controversy which rocked the world of architecture and ultimately scuppered plans for the Cardiff Bay Opera House, the Welsh Office mounted exhibitions of the designs to help test public reaction.

Most of the six use large quantities of glass and dramatic curves.

In one design, Cardiff Bay's maritime history is featured in the striking shape of a ship prow ploughing through waves.

Coiled dragon

Another design resembles a grass-covered hill and there are two rival circular projects. A coiled dragon forms one scheme, while another architect wants to create a building based on large slabs of rock.

Another contender for the Assembly

Malcolm Parry, of the Welsh School of Architecture at Cardiff University, said: "What strikes me immediately is the high quality of the field.

"All six have great and exciting ideas well worth building to give the Welsh Assembly a very individualistic and forward-looking home which will have a personality of its own."

The winner will be revealed on Friday and the chosen design will be built on the waterfront at Cardiff Bay.