ZERO EMISSION WONDERS - OFF THE GRID

INTRODUCTION

Welcome to the forefront of innovation and sustainable design with Archiol's highly anticipated third edition of the Zero Emission Wonders - Off the Grid Design Competition. 

As we stand at the nexus of environmental consciousness and architectural brilliance, the spotlight turns to tiny houses, becoming beacons of inspiration for a world in search of ecologically responsible living solutions. The global landscape is evolving, and the need for sustainable, eco-friendly habitats has never been more urgent. The competition serves as a pivotal platform for visionaries to explore the uncharted realms of off-the-grid living, where innovation converges with environmental stewardship.

In an era where urban landscapes are dominated by grid-dependent structures, the Off the Grid Design Competition is a rallying cry for transformative ideas that challenge the status quo. The emphasis on tiny houses not only underscores the importance of resource efficiency but also encourages participants to think beyond the conventional boundaries of residential architecture.

Beyond the mere aesthetics, this competition is a conscientious exploration into the future of living—where sustainability isn't an afterthought but the very essence of design. With the critical issue of over-reliance on existing grid systems at the forefront, participants are invited to conceptualize, design, and realize dwellings that stand as testament to self-sufficiency, harnessing renewable energy, and embracing innovative technologies.

Embark on a journey that transcends the ordinary, where sustainability merges seamlessly with creativity. Join Archiol in redefining the narrative of residential living through the Zero Emission Wonders - Off the Grid Design Competition, and let your imagination become the catalyst for a more sustainable and harmonious future.

OBJECTIVE

The primary objective of this competition is to encourage the design of dream homes within a limited space of 37 square meters, focusing on sustainability. Participants are required to create innovative, off-the-grid housing solutions that are not only functional but also aesthetically pleasing and environmentally responsible. The competition aims to challenge the current housing paradigms and inspire creative, sustainable, and self-sufficient living spaces.

THE BUILDING PROGRAMME

Participants must design a home for a maximum of two people, considering all the necessary functions for comfortable living, within a 37-square-meter footprint. This includes sleeping, cooking, dining, sanitation, and living spaces. Creative and efficient use of space is encouraged.

SITE

The competition is site-agnostic, allowing participants the freedom to choose their own imaginary location for their design. The design should, however, take into account the potential site conditions such as climate, topography, and environment.

DESIGN FLEXIBILITY

Participants have the creative freedom to explore innovative architectural solutions, making the most efficient use of limited space. The design should offer flexibility to adapt to different environments and changing needs over time.

SUSTAINABILITY 

Sustainability is a key focus of this competition. Designs must incorporate eco-friendly and off-the-grid principles, which may include but are not limited to:

• Renewable energy sources

• Water recycling and conservation

• Waste management

• Sustainable and locally-sourced materials

• Passive design principles

• Biodiversity and green spaces

AWARDS

• Top 3: Certificate + Interview + Publication + score card with inputs

• Honourable mention: Certificate + Publication.

• Shortlisted: Certificate.

TIMELINE

• Competition Announcement: 1st January 2024

• Registration Opens: 1st January 2024

• Advanced Registration Deadline: 18th January 2024

• Standard Registration Deadline: 18th March 2024

• Late Registration Deadline: 31st March  2024

• Submission Deadline: 20th April 2024

• Winners Announcement: 25th May 2024

REGISTRATION FEES

ADVANCED REGISTRATIONS

• AR 01: JAN 02 – JAN 18 – $20

STANDARD REGISTRATIONS

• SR 01: JAN 19 – FEB 04 – $23

• SR 02: FEB 05 – FEB 18 – $25

• SR 03: FEB 19 –  MAR 04 – $27

• SR 04: MAR 05 – MAR 18 – $29

LATE REGISTRATIONS

• LR: MAR 19 – MAR 31 – $38

DISCOUNTS

• Architecture Students group 

• min. 5 participants from the same institution: 10% off on regular & late registration fee.

• min. 15 participants from the same institution: 20% off on regular & registration fee.

SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS

Participants are required to submit the following materials:

• Design sheets (2 -5) jpeg. / jpg. Format. (dimension: 30cm x 30cm,  file size: 25mb)

• Design description with a title (Min. 300 words) – docx. / docs. Format

JURY 

We collaborate with leading architects, designers, and academicians of international repute to participate as jury members in our competitions.

EIGIBILITY

The competition is open to architects, designers, artists, and creative thinkers from around the world. Participants can enter as individuals or in teams (max. 4 members in one team).

COMPETITION LINK: 

https://www.archiol.org/competitions/off-the-grid-2024