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International Design Competition

A GLOBAL SANCTUARY

Designing Hotel for Cultural Exchange

Introduction

In an increasingly interconnected world, the celebration of cultural diversity and fusion stands as a cornerstone of modern society. This competition invites architects and designers to conceptualize a hotel that transcends mere accommodation, transforming it into a dynamic sanctuary for cultural exchange and understanding. The vision is to create a space that immerses guests in the rich tapestry of global traditions, encouraging meaningful interactions between travelers and local communities.


Participants are challenged to design a hotel that embodies the spirit of cultural fusion, where architectural styles, materials, and philosophies from diverse cultures seamlessly converge. Innovative spatial solutions that foster engagement, learning, and appreciation of various cultural practices are encouraged, urging participants to rethink traditional hotel design.


This hotel is envisioned as a refuge for guests seeking not just comfort, but a profound connection to the local culture and community. By harmonizing modern amenities with traditional aesthetics, the hotel will cultivate a sense of belonging and inclusivity, allowing guests to genuinely experience the essence of the region they are visiting.


In alignment with this vision, the competition prioritizes designs that reflect a commitment to sustainability and environmental stewardship. Participants are urged to ensure that their concepts positively impact the surrounding environment while embracing eco-friendly practices. Ultimately, this hotel will serve as a powerful testament to the role of design in fostering dialogue, collaboration, and mutual respect among cultures, paving the way for a more harmonious global community.


Objective

The "A Global Sanctuary" competition invites architects and designers to conceive an innovative hotel that embodies the essence of cultural diversity and exchange. Participants are encouraged to develop groundbreaking concepts that go beyond traditional hotel design, serving as a hub for cultural interaction and immersion.


The design should create an inviting environment that facilitates engagement between guests and local communities, allowing visitors to connect with and appreciate the region's rich traditions and cultural heritage. Designers are tasked with fostering inclusivity and education through spaces that celebrate diverse cultures. This includes integrating architectural elements, materials, and styles from various cultural backgrounds, enabling guests to experience a tapestry of influences within a harmonious setting.


Central to this competition is the commitment to cultural authenticity and representation. The hotel should function as a microcosm of the global community, with each space telling a unique story that reflects the multifaceted nature of cultural exchange.

Sustainability is also a pivotal focus. Proposals should incorporate eco-friendly practices and materials, showcasing a dedication to environmental stewardship while enhancing the guest experience. The ultimate aim is to design a hotel that not only welcomes visitors but also strengthens the local community, fostering lasting connections and promoting a deeper understanding of cultural diversity.


Key Goals

  • Cultural Integration: Create a design that incorporates architectural styles, materials, and practices from diverse cultures to enhance guest experiences.

  • Community Engagement: Foster meaningful interactions between hotel guests and local communities through shared spaces and cultural programs.

  • Sustainable Design: Implement eco-friendly practices and materials that reduce the environmental impact of the hotel while promoting sustainability.

  • Inclusivity: Ensure that the design is accessible and welcoming to all, reflecting the principles of diversity and inclusiveness.

  • Experiential Learning: Develop spaces that provide opportunities for guests to learn about and appreciate local traditions and cultures.


The Building Program

The Cultural Fusion Hotel will encompass a diverse range of spaces designed to facilitate cultural exchange, community engagement, and sustainable practices. The program includes the following key elements:

  • Guest Accommodations

  • Common Spaces

  • Dining Facilities

  • Wellness Center

  • Outdoor Spaces

  • Administrative and Support Areas

  • Sustainability Features

This building program aims to create a holistic environment that encourages cultural exchange, community involvement, and sustainability while providing guests with a memorable and immersive experience.


Site

The site for the Cultural Fusion Hotel will be selected by the participants, allowing them to explore and engage with various urban environments that embody cultural richness and diversity. Designers are encouraged to consider locations that are vibrant, accessible, and representative of a multicultural landscape.


Sustainability

The Cultural Fusion Hotel competition emphasizes the importance of sustainability in the design process. Participants are encouraged to adopt innovative and eco-friendly practices that minimize environmental impact while enhancing the guest experience.

Detailed Competition Brief

The brief can be downloaded as often as required. It contains all the information about this competition; no additional information will be provided after registration.

BRIEF & SUBMISSIONS REQUIREMENTS

Prizes & Recognition

Recognition is the key to success for any design professional. Archiol is providing an opportunity to showcase your creativity at the global level. This opportunity is open to all.

TOP THREE

PRIZE MONEY (upto ₹1,50,000) | PUBLICATION | CERTIFICATE | INTERVIEW

ARCHIOL INTERNAL JURY SPECIAL MENTION

PUBLICATION  |  CERTIFICATE

5  HONOURABLE MENTIONS 

PUBLICATION  |  CERTIFICATE

30 SHORTLISTED ENTRIES

CERTIFICATE

*Prize amounts are dependent on the number of entries received. If the competition does not reach the final stage of registration, the prize money may be adjusted—either increased or decreased—based on the total number of participants.

Timeline

REGISTRATION DEADLINE

Thursday, 15 January 2026

SUBMISSION DEADLINE

Sunday, 25 January 2026

RESULT ANNOUNCEMENT

Saturday, 25 April 2026

All deadlines are 11:59 PM  UTC  (Coordinated Universal Time)

Competition Question & Answer

TO ASK ANY QUESTIONS RELATED TO THE COMPETITION CLICK BELOW.

Registration Fees Details

Standard Entry 1

Start Date: 01 Jun 2025

End Date: 12 Jun 2025

Fees: $50

Standard Entry 2

Start Date: 13 Jun 2025

End Date: 27 Jun 2025

Fees: $52

Standard Entry 3

Start Date: 28 Jun 2025

End Date: 12 Jul 2025

Fees: $54

Standard Entry 4

Start Date: 13 Jul 2025

End Date: 28 Jul 2025

Fees: $58

Regular Entry 1

Start Date: 29Jul 2025

End Date: 12 Aug 2025

Fees: $61

Regular Entry 2

Start Date: 13 Aug 2025

End Date: 28 Aug 2025

Fees: $65

Regular Entry 3

Start Date: 29 Aug 2025

End Date: 12 Sep 2025

Fees: $68

Regular Entry 4

Start Date: 13 Sept 2025

End Date: 28 Sep 2025

Fees: $71

Classic Entry 1

Start Date: 29 Sept 2025

End Date: 12 Oct 2025

Fees: $75

Classic Entry 2

Start Date: 13 Oct 2025

End Date: 28 Oct 2025

Fees: $78

Classic Entry 3

Start Date: 29 Oct 2025

End Date: 12 Nov 2025

Fees: $82

Priority Entry 1

Start Date: 13 Nov 2025

End Date: 28 Nov 2025

Fees: $85

Priority Entry 2

Start Date: 29 Nov 2025

End Date: 12 Dec 2025

Fees: $87

Last Call

Start Date: 13Dec 2025

End Date: Registration Deadline

Fees: $91

UNIVERSITY DISCOUNTS

Contact us to receive university discounts.  Send us a request from your university email address along with basic information about yourself and your university/school. Attach your university ID cards to the email.

DISCOUNT TIERS

5% Discount     : Available for university student (individual or team participants).

10% Discount   : Available for universities that register 10 individual or team participants.

20% Discount   : Available for universities that register 20 individual or team participants.

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1. Pay the Registration Fees

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2. Sign in your Archiol Account

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3. Access in 24 hours

(dropdown menu beside profile picture)

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4. Register & Submit any time before the deadines

Register Now

If you're unable to make a payment using the above link, please use PayPal by clicking the link below:

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FAQ's

How can I create my participation code?

Complete the registration form, which can be accessed via the dropdown menu under the profile icon in the top-right corner. Once registered, you can create your participation code.

Is the participation code the same as the Order Number?

No, the participation code is not the same as the Order Number. The participation code is created during the registration process and should be included in the file name.

What size should the sheets be?

The sheet size is flexible for the current competition.

Should the participation code be placed on the sheets?

No, the participation code should not appear on the sheets. Instead, use it to name the submission PDF.

Does the Order Number need to appear on the sheets?

No, the Order Number does not need to appear on the sheets.

Should each sheet be numbered to indicate the display order?

Yes, each sheet should be numbered sequentially to indicate the order in which they should be viewed.

What is the official language for Archiol competitions?

The official language for all Archiol competitions is English. All submissions, including written descriptions, presentations, and supporting documents, must be in English.

How to apply for discounts?

Please click the link below for discount guide: Discount Guide

Can I get a refund if I withdraw my participation?

Unfortunately, registration fees are non-refundable once paid.

Why do the fees increase with each stage?

Fees increase as the competition progresses to encourage early participation and ensure adequate planning for prizes and operations.

Do I need to pay additional fees after registering?

No, you only pay once during registration. There are no additional fees for participation or submission.

Can I modify my submission after uploading it?

Yes, modifications are allowed until the submission deadline. After the deadline, submissions are final and cannot be altered.

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