The Portugal Vez River Spa International Architecture Competition invites architects to design a boutique wellness spa that blends harmoniously with its natural surroundings. Competitors will explore concepts celebrating the connection between nature, relaxation, and design innovation, fostering a sense of balance and harmony.
Brief
Located on the serene banks of the Vez River in northern Portugal, the goal of the competition is to inspire designs that embrace the peaceful atmosphere of the surrounding area while providing a thoughtful, intimate wellness experience.
Nestled beside a historic watermill, the site offers a unique opportunity to create a space that reflects the tranquility and beauty of the region. The mill, once a hub for local activity, adds rich character to the project; it has been gradually restored over the past 25 years to transform it into a welcoming guest house while preserving its historical significance.
Architects will create designs that integrate seamlessly with this unique setting, enhancing its natural and cultural significance. A jury of architects and industry professionals put together by Buildner will assess each plan as a serene retreat where architecture and nature come together to offer a rejuvenating escape in a picturesque Portuguese setting.
Project Parameters
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- At the heart of the Portugal Vez River Spa International Architecture Competition is a commitment to creating a sanctuary where guests can disconnect from modern stresses.
- The spa will offer a range of facilities, including:
- Sauna, jacuzzi and Turkish bath (pre-purchased and ready for installation)
- Relaxation area
- Small gym
- Massage room(s)
- Small pool on ground level
- Shared bathroom and dressing area
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- Competition is open to all.
- No professional qualification is required.
- Design proposals can be developed individually or by teams (4 team members maximum).
- Correspondence with organizers all information submitted by participants must be in English.
Eligibility
- No professional qualification is required.
- Design proposals can be developed individually or by teams (4 team members maximum).
- Correspondence with organizers all information submitted by participants must be in English.
Submission Requirements
All entrants of the Portugal Vez River Spa International Architecture Competition must upload:
- Four (4) A2 landscape-oriented presentation boards with sketches, renderings, plans, sections, elevations, diagrams and/or other presentation tools to explain their proposal.
Participants are also encouraged to upload:
- Visualizations demonstrating their usage of site integration
- Concept designs illustrating how their project aligns with the competition brief
- Proposed site plans, floor plans and sections detailing the spatial layout of the spa
- Renderings and perspectives illustrating the internal and external building spaces
- Documentation demonstrating design feasibility
- A detailed proposal explaining construction methods, material choices and their alignment with the spa’s functional requirements
- Accessibility and functionality plans
- Artistic impressions showing the spa’s visual impact on surrounding landscape
Prizes
- The winner of the Portugal Vez River Spa International Architecture Competition will receive 5,000€, and their project will be constructed.
- 2nd Prize: 2,500€
- 3rd Prize: 1,000€
- Buildner Student Award: 1,000€
- Buildner Sustainability Award: 500€
- All winners and 6 honourable mentions will receive Certificates of Achievement.
- All winners will be published on Buildner and ArchDaily, given leverage into Buildner’s extensive media network and presented the opportunity to submit a movie and an interview to boost their industry recognizability.
