
INTERNATIONAL DESIGN COMPETITION
BENEATH THE EARTH
RESULT
BENEATH THE EARTH
Editorial reflection
As cities grow denser and the pressure on land intensifies, architecture is called upon to explore new frontiers—both conceptually and physically. “Beneath the Earth – Where Luxury Meets Sustainability” emerges from this necessity, inviting designers to reimagine hospitality not as an imposition on the landscape, but as an experience embedded within it.
This competition challenged participants to look below the surface and uncover the untapped potential of subterranean architecture. By leveraging the earth’s natural insulation, acoustic calm, and ecological sensitivity, the entries redefine how luxury can coexist with sustainability. What makes these proposals remarkable is not only their spatial innovation, but their ability to transform constraints into opportunities—crafting environments that are immersive, serene, and deeply connected to nature.
The selected works demonstrate a thoughtful balance between design, technology, and environmental responsibility. They go beyond conventional hotel typologies to propose experiences that are introspective, sensory, and forward-thinking. Each project contributes to a broader dialogue on how we can build responsibly while elevating human experience.
As we present the results, we celebrate not only the winning ideas but the collective vision of a future where architecture harmonizes with the earth—quietly, intelligently, and beautifully.
EXPERTS
Jury Panel
Distinguished architects from around the world evaluate submissions with rigorous professional standards and creative insight.
01 First Place
Winner
Hotel Neura
Dean Wood
Juror’s Comment:
The project excels in both programmatic richness and technical resolution, with clearly articulated zoning, circulation, and amenities making it one of the most complete entries.
Work on:
A slightly stronger emphasis on emotional and sensory qualities would elevate the proposal further.
Special Mention
Exceptional
Sonara
Rebecca Roberts
Juror’s Comment:
The project excels in crafting luxury as emotion and perception, with spatial sequences—from arrival to spa feeling deeply cinematic and transformative.
Work on:
The project could further strengthen its technical resolution and feasibility, particularly regarding structural intervention, evacuation, and long-term environmental impact within such a sensitive and extreme natural setting.
Honourable Mention
Urban Dissection
Leo Puentedura & Paata Mirianashvili
Juror’s Comment:
The project excels in revealing hidden urban layers, creating visual and spatial connections that redefine the underground as an active public realm.
Work on:
Greater articulation of materiality and sensory qualities would enhance the guest experience.
Honourable Mention
Subterra Cappadocia
Chiranthan Madhyasta S & Sahil Satish Naik
Juror’s Comment:
The project’s strength lies in its sensitive adaptation of existing cave morphologies, creating a seamless dialogue between architecture and landscape. The tiered room organization maximizes views and privacy, while the spatial atmosphere—enhanced through carved volumes and natural light—is exceptionally immersive and luxurious.
Work on:
The circulation clarity and wayfinding within the organic cave network could be further refined for ease of navigation. Additionally, more explicit articulation of structural reinforcement and long-term durability would strengthen the proposal’s technical robustness.
Honourable Mention
Halo
Aya-Sofia RASSY & Tely-Dalanda ORIACH
Juror’s Comment:
An extraordinary and highly compelling proposal that transforms a volcanic magma chamber into a breathtaking subterranean hotel. The spatial drama of the central void and suspended “Halo” ring creates a cathedral-like experience, while the descent sequence via panoramic elevator is exceptionally well choreographed. The integration of geology and architecture is both immersive and iconic.
Work on:
While spatially powerful, the proposal could further clarify environmental systems and long-term sustainability strategies within such an extreme geological context. Additionally, aspects of safety, evacuation, and structural intervention within the volcanic chamber could be more rigorously detailed.
Honourable Mention
The Vertical Layers
Tizian Landt
Juror’s Comment:
The central circular staircase and layered organization create a strong spatial narrative, while the integration of light wells brings natural light deep into the interiors, producing a serene and contemplative atmosphere. The private room configuration with double-height sequencing is particularly well-resolved and luxurious.
Work on:
A stronger engagement with contextual or cultural specificity could enhance its uniqueness and competitive edge.
Honourable Mention
Celestial Hollow
Marcq Ayla, Nguyen-thé Raphaël & Kalonji Matthieu
Juror’s Comment:
An exceptionally immersive and poetic spatial concept, where architecture becomes an instrument to experience time, cosmos, and light. The use of celestial alignment—clearly articulated through zodiac-based rooms and solar slits —creates a powerful and unique narrative, elevating the underground hotel into a cosmic observatory.
Work on:
The project could further develop its sustainability strategies beyond passive thermal mass and water collection.
Celebrating Potential
Shortlisted Entries
Innovative ideas that stood out among hundreds of entries and earned a place in the final shortlist.
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