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Home Of Shadows, International Competition
Open international ideas competition inviting architects to test domestic architecture without artificial light, beyond site constraints in a global landscape.
This competition invites proposals for a fully functioning house designed for a hypothetical couple, operating without any artificial light. Entrants may select any theoretical site and climate, using natural light, shadow and material behaviour as the primary architectural drivers. The brief challenges designers to reconcile comfort, habitability and daily domestic routines with diurnal and seasonal light conditions. The project tests how spatial sequencing, openings, courtyards and massing can choreograph light and darkness as active architectural elements rather than technical problems.
Location
Sector
residential
Tender Portal
Tender Stage
Open design competition
Deadline
2 Mar 26
Consultant Team
The competition is open to students, architects, designers, urbanists, engineers, artists, makers, activists and anyone interested in the architectural design.
Submission Criteria
1st Place – €5k, 2nd Place – €2.5k, 3rd Place – €1k
Buildner Student Award – €1k
Buildner Sustainability Award – €500
6 Honourable mentions and certificates
Submission Format and Requirements:
— Language of submission: English
— Electronic submission via online upload panel (access issued after registration)
— One A2 landscape presentation board, anonymised
— Digital-only submission
Deliverables:
— Architectural response to living without artificial light
— Spatial strategy, daylight control and shadow conditions
— Domestic programme including kitchen, bedroom, living space, bathroom and courtyard
— Jury assessment based on design quality and conceptual strength
— Emphasis on architectural use of natural light and shadow
Registration Fees:
— Architect / Enthusiast / Company – €140
— Student – €120
(Details of instalment payment options are published on the organiser’s website)