
International Design Competition
ELEVATED COMMUNITIES
Join the "Elevated Communities: The Vertical Village Challenge," an innovative architecture competition for architects, urban planners, and designers. Redefine urban living by designing sustainable vertical villages that harmonize with city life, foster social connections, and promote environmental stewardship.
ELEVATED COMMUNITIES
The vertical village challenge
vertical village design, urban living competition, sustainable architecture, vertical community concept, modern urban habitats
CHALLENGE
Design Intent & Objective
Learn More
Introduction
As urban areas around the globe continue to expand at an unprecedented rate, the traditional models of housing and community planning are being tested to their limits. The strain on resources, the challenges of climate change, and the increasing demand for space in densely populated cities necessitate a radical rethinking of how we design and live in our urban environments.
In response to these challenges, "Elevated Communities: The Vertical Village Challenge" seeks to push the boundaries of architectural innovation by focusing on vertical living solutions. This competition invites architects, designers, urban planners, and visionaries to conceive groundbreaking vertical village concepts that redefine residential living.
The goal of this competition is to explore and implement vertical design principles that harmonize with the complexities of modern urban life. Participants are encouraged to develop designs that not only maximize the use of vertical space but also create vibrant, interconnected communities that promote social interaction, environmental stewardship, and self-sufficiency.
Vertical villages are envisioned as multi-dimensional structures that rise above the urban landscape, integrating residential units with communal spaces, green areas, and commercial facilities within a single cohesive vertical framework. These designs should address the pressing need for efficient space utilization while fostering a sense of community and enhancing the quality of life for residents.
The challenge calls for imaginative solutions that embrace sustainability, resilience, and adaptability. Participants should consider innovative approaches to energy efficiency, water management, and material use, as well as strategies for maintaining social and economic vibrancy in a vertical format.
By reimagining how vertical communities can function and thrive, this competition aims to contribute to the broader discourse on urban living and offer new possibilities for the future of city life. We invite you to be part of this transformative journey, pushing the envelope of vertical design to create sustainable, inclusive, and dynamic urban habitats.
Objective
The primary aim of "Elevated Communities: The Vertical Village Challenge" is to envision a pioneering vertical village that redefines urban living through a multi-dimensional approach. Participants are invited to create a comprehensive design that addresses the complex needs of modern urban environments while promoting a sustainable and high-quality lifestyle.
Integrating Residential and Communal Spaces:
Vertical Integration: Develop a design where residential units and communal areas are seamlessly integrated within a vertical framework. This involves creatively utilizing vertical space to accommodate various residential typologies and communal facilities, fostering a sense of community and connection among residents.
Functional Zoning: Efficiently zone different functions within the vertical structure, ensuring that residential, commercial, and communal spaces are well-organized and accessible.
Addressing the Housing Crisis:
Innovative Housing Solutions: Propose solutions that address the growing demand for housing in urban areas, incorporating diverse residential typologies to cater to different needs, including affordable housing, family units, and elderly accommodations.
Density and Livability: Create a design that maximizes density without compromising livability, ensuring that the vertical village provides a high quality of life through well-designed living spaces and accessible amenities.
Enhancing Quality of Life:
Community Building: Foster a sense of community through the inclusion of shared spaces such as parks, recreation areas, and social hubs. The design should encourage interaction and engagement among residents, enhancing social cohesion and well-being.
Access and Mobility: Ensure that the vertical village promotes ease of movement within the structure, incorporating efficient vertical transportation systems and accessible design features for all users.
Incorporating Principles of Sustainability:
Environmental Impact: Integrate sustainable design practices that minimize the environmental footprint of the vertical village. This includes energy-efficient systems, water conservation measures, and the use of sustainable materials.
Resilience and Adaptability: Design the vertical village to be resilient to environmental changes and adaptable to future needs. This could involve flexible spaces, green infrastructure, and considerations for climate change.
Innovative Architecture:
Architectural Excellence: Push the boundaries of architectural innovation by exploring new forms, materials, and technologies. The design should not only be functional but also aesthetically inspiring, reflecting a forward-thinking approach to vertical living.
Integration with Urban Fabric: Consider how the vertical village interacts with its surrounding urban context, ensuring it enhances and complements the existing cityscape while addressing urban challenges.
Overall, the challenge is to conceive a vertical village that represents a transformative approach to urban living, blending practical solutions with visionary design to create thriving, sustainable communities in vertical settings.
Recognition
Rewards for architectural excellence
The final prize amounts depend on the total number of entries received. Should the competition not achieve the final registration target, the cash prizes may be adjusted accordingly.
TOP 3 WINNERS
Cash Prize (upto ₹1,50,000) | Publication | Certificate of Recognition | Jury Report | Interview | Free Memberships in architectural communities, forums, or libraries.
& more
HONOURABLE MENTION X 5
Publication | Certificate of Recognition
SPECIAL MENTION X 1
Publication | Certificate of Recognition
SHORTLISTED ENTRIES X 30
Name & project title listed in competition results | Certificate of Participation
*The final prize amounts depend on the total number of entries received. Should the competition not achieve the final registration target, the cash prizes may be adjusted accordingly.
Timeline
Key dates for architectural design challenge
Navigate the critical milestones of our global architectural competition. Each date marks a crucial step in your design journey.

6 January 2026
Registration
Final registration deadline for architects and designers worldwide.
Register before the deadline.

16 January 2026
Submission
Final deadline for submitting groundbreaking architectural proposals.

Internal - External
Review
Expert panel begins comprehensive evaluation of submitted design concepts.

16 April 2026
Results
Winners will be announced, celebrating innovation in architectural design.
All deadlines are 11:59 PM UTC (Coordinated Universal Time)
Fees
Transparent registration pricing for global participants
Our registration fees are designed to be accessible for architects and designers at all stages of their careers. We offer flexible payment options to support creative talent.
Priority Entry 1
Start Date: 15 Nov 2025
End Date: 30 Nov 2025
Fees: $50
Priority Entry 2
Start Date: 31 Nov 2025
End Date: 14 Dec 2025
Fees: $72
Last Call
Start Date: 15 Dec 2025
End Date: Registration Deadline
Fees: $75
Institutions
Special discounts for academic design programs
We believe in supporting educational institutions that nurture architectural talent. Our university discount program encourages collective participation and innovation.

Eligibility
Available to students enrolled in accredited architecture or design programs with valid ID.

Individual Discount
Reduced entry fee for verified student participants.

Group Discount
Special rates for university groups of 5 or more students.

University Partnership
Institutions can collaborate for extended benefits and recognition.
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.
Registration & Submission
Navigate the registration & submission
process with ease
A clear, straightforward path from registration to final design submission. We've simplified the process to let your creativity shine.

1. Pay the Registration Fee

2. Sign in your Archiol Account.

3. Access will be provided in 24 hours. (Dropdown menu near profile picture.)

4. Register & Submit anytime before deadline
FAQs
Get clarity on competition details. Quick answers to common competition questions.
How can I create my participation code?
Complete the registration form available under the profile icon in the top-right corner (dropdown menu). After registering, you can generate your participation code. Please refer to the video guide for assistance.
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 file.
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.
Can I get a refund if I withdraw my participation?
Unfortunately, registration fees are non-refundable once paid.
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.
How do I Register and Submit my design?
Please refer to the registration and submission video guide for step-by-step instructions.
Can I register for multiple competitions?
Absolutely! You can register for as many competitions as you like, as long as you meet the deadlines and requirements for each.
Can I register as a team?
Yes, you can register either as an individual or as a team. For team registrations, only one member is required to complete the registration form and make the payment on behalf of the group. Each team can include up to a maximum of 4 members.
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