BENEATH THE EARTH

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Introduction

As urban spaces continue to swell with population growth and development, the need for innovative architectural solutions has never been more pressing. The “Underground Hotel” competition seeks to inspire architects and designers to rethink the traditional paradigms of hospitality by envisioning a luxurious and functional hotel nestled beneath the earth’s surface.

This competition aims to challenge and expand our understanding of space, light, and sustainability through the unique potential of subterranean environments. By delving underground, participants will explore the inherent benefits of such spaces, including natural thermal insulation, reduced noise pollution, and the opportunity to preserve above-ground landscapes while minimizing the impact on local ecosystems.

The “Underground Hotel” is not merely a structure; it is a concept that harmonizes with its natural surroundings, drawing on the beauty and mystery of the earth. Participants are invited to design a hotel experience that enhances guest well-being, fosters connection with the environment, and incorporates innovative features that prioritize sustainability.

In this quest for the extraordinary, designers are encouraged to push the boundaries of creativity, creating spaces that evoke wonder and serenity while offering the highest levels of comfort and luxury. The challenge lies not just in the architectural design but in crafting a holistic guest experience that seamlessly integrates architecture, nature, and technology. By participating in this competition, designers will have the opportunity to contribute to a new narrative in hospitality—one that celebrates the depth of our planet while redefining what it means to stay away from home.

Objective

The primary objective of the “Underground Hotel” competition is to inspire architects and designers to explore innovative design solutions that elevate the concept of hospitality in subterranean environments. This competition challenges participants to envision a luxurious hotel experience that harmoniously integrates with its natural surroundings while redefining conventional notions of space and ambiance.

By focusing on underground architecture, the competition aims to highlight the unique opportunities presented by such spaces, including enhanced energy efficiency, natural temperature regulation, and a distinct sense of tranquility. Participants are encouraged to think beyond traditional architectural boundaries, crafting designs that not only provide exceptional comfort and luxury but also foster a deep connection with nature.

Ultimately, this competition seeks to cultivate a new paradigm in hospitality design—one that prioritizes sustainability, environmental awareness, and the well-being of guests. Through this exploration of subterranean architecture, we aim to uncover innovative solutions that will contribute to the future of urban living and redefine the guest experience.

Key Goals

  • Innovative Design: Encourage creative architectural solutions that leverage the unique aspects of underground spaces.
  • Sustainability: Promote environmentally friendly practices, including energy efficiency and the use of sustainable materials.
  • Guest Experience: Enhance comfort and well-being through thoughtful design, providing an exceptional and memorable stay.
  • Integration with Nature: Harmonize the hotel design with its natural surroundings, preserving local ecosystems and landscapes.
  • Exploration of Space: Challenge conventional perceptions of space and light within subterranean environments.
  • Future-Forward Thinking: Contribute to the dialogue on the future of urban hospitality and sustainable living.

 

The Building Program

The “Underground Hotel” should be thoughtfully designed to accommodate a diverse range of functions and amenities that enhance the guest experience while maximizing the unique characteristics of subterranean architecture. The following key components should be included in the building program:

  • Guest Rooms:
  • Lobby and Reception Area:
  • Common Areas:
  • Dining Facilities:
  • Wellness Center:
  • Event Spaces:
  • Staff Areas:
  • Access Points and Circulation:
  • Sustainability Features:

This building program aims to create a harmonious and luxurious underground hotel that offers a unique guest experience while embracing sustainable practices and the beauty of the natural environment. Participants are encouraged to innovate within this framework, adapting the program to fit their unique vision for the underground hotel.

Site

For the “Underground Hotel” competition, participants are required to select a site that serves as the foundation for their architectural vision. The chosen location should provide a unique context that enhances the overall concept of the underground hotel while considering both the environmental and experiential aspects of the design.

Sustainability

Sustainability is a core element of the “Underground Hotel” competition, and participants are expected to incorporate environmentally responsible practices throughout their designs. 

Project Proposal Requirements

Participants must submit a project proposal that includes:

  • A clear and compelling design narrative explaining the concept.
  • Detailed floor plans, elevations, and sections that illustrate the spatial organization and functional layout.
  • Renderings or visualizations that convey the aesthetic quality and experience.
  • A site plan.

Timeline

  • Registration Deadline: 16th June 2025
  • Submission Deadline: 21st June 2025
  • Winners Announcement: September 21st 2025

 

Submission Requirements

File Format:

  • All entries must be submitted as a single PDF document.

Sheets:

  • Minimum of 3 sheets, maximum of 6 sheets.
  • Each sheet should include designs, drawings, and views that effectively communicate the project concept.

Text Explanation:

  • Each sheet must contain explanatory text that describes and supports your design decisions.
  • Text should be clear and concise, highlighting the main ideas and features of the project.

Content to Include (per sheet):

  • Design Concepts: Conceptual drawings, diagrams, and sketches.
  • Plans, Elevations, and Sections: Architectural plans, cross-sections, and elevations.
  • Views and Renderings: 3D views, perspectives, or rendered images of the project.
  • Diagrams: Illustrations explaining circulation, spatial relationships, environmental or structural concepts.

Resolution and Quality:

  • All sheets should be high-quality, legible, and visually clear.

File Size:

  • The total file size should not exceed 20 MB.

 

Naming Convention:

  • The file should be named as: CompetitionName_ParticipationCode.pdf

Anonymity:

  • No names, logos, or identifying marks should appear on any of the submitted sheets to ensure anonymity during judging.

 

Submission Guidelines

Sign in to Your Account:

  • Visit the Archiol website and sign in to your account.

Access Your Competition Submissions:

  • In the header, click on the arrow beside your profile picture. Select the option labeled “My Competition Submissions.”

Submit Your Entry:

  • Click on the “Submit My Entry” button.

Select Competition:

  • Choose the competition name for which you wish to submit your entry.

Enter Participation Code:

  • Input the participation code that was generated during your registration.

Title Your Submission:

  • Provide a title for your submission.

Upload Title Image:

  • Upload the image that will represent your project.

Upload Design PDF:

  • Submit your project in PDF format (ensure it meets the competition’s requirements).

Consent:

  • Check the box to agree to the competition terms and conditions.

Submit:

  • After filling in all required fields, click “Submit.”

Confirmation:

  • Your submission will appear in “My Competition Submissions” within 24 hours.

 

Eligibility

The competition is open to all architects, designers, students, and creative individuals globally. There are no restrictions on age or nationality.

Contact Details

For any inquiries or further information, please contact us at:

 

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