BEYOND WALLS 2026
Competition Brief
Intent
The contest challenges the participants to reconsider the outdoor learning places. It encourages the designers to switch over from the traditional enclosed classrooms and think of ways in which nature can be an integral part of the education system. The spotlight is on the fresh air places which are capable of realizing human interaction, viewing and ecological awareness.
Purpose
The intention is to set up the places for learning that will attract people to the natural systems. The competition looks for the contributions that will enable the pupils to experiment, work together and become more sensitive towards the environment. The goal is not only to make the outdoor spaces look good but also to provide the learning environments that are really based on the needs of the students.
Requirements
The submissions must consist of the learning zones, shaded areas, seating, pathways, gardens or outdoor labs, and eco-studies props. The designers are required to take into account the factors like climate, the selection of materials, life cycle and safety. Companies or individual designers are allowed to take part. The chosen site should facilitate the coupling of education and nature.
Jury
The organizing committee does not make public the names of the jury members. The jury is to be only referred to as the group of people consisting of the professionals from the areas of design and related fields.
Fees
| Category | Amount |
|---|---|
| Entry fee early | 50 USD |
| Entry fee regular | 75 USD |
Rewards
| Category | Description |
|---|---|
| First second third place | Cash awards, certificates, publication, interviews |
| Honorable mentions | Certificates and publication |
| Special mention | Certificate and publication |
| Shortlisted entries | Certificate and project title listing |
Dates
| Category | Date |
|---|---|
| Registration deadline | January 17 2026 |
| Submission deadline | January 27 2026 |
| Results announcement | April 27 2026 |
✦ ArchUp Competition Review
The competition Beyond Walls is calling for designing nature integrated outdoor classrooms and it is organized by Archiol Competitions. No juror names or credentials are given in public information which cuts down to a significant extent the visibility around the evaluation standards. The contest is of a professional and academic nature and promotes rethinking of educational spaces through hands-on ecological outdoor learning instead of purely serving promotional purposes. The prizes consist of cash awards, publication, certificates, and recognition but these may not necessarily reflect the effort put into the detailed submissions and might not lead to construction in real life. The main advantages for the participants are portfolio development, conceptual exploration, and exposure while the practical implementation is still uncertain. The jury is said to be comprised of professionals from the design field and but their credentials and the reliability of their reviews are not disclosed.
Conclusion and Final Thoughts
The competition brings up a conceptual challenge centred on outdoor learning. Even though the brief pushes the boundaries of imagination and environmental conscience, the information that is provided is not enough to clarify the evaluation criteria and the transparency of the jury. It is good for participants who are looking to try out unconventional educational concepts that are backed up by nature rather than the usual architectural programs.
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ArchUp Editorial Management
Jury Committee Assessment:
· No information has been provided about the members of the jury committee.
· The reference to a “group of specialists” is unsubstantiated.
· A complete lack of transparency regarding the evaluation process.
Analysis of the Competition’s Nature:
· Knowledge Value:
· Specialized topic in outdoor learning environments.
· Focus on environmental design and sustainability in educational settings.
· Clear design criteria that consider interaction with nature.
· Organizational Aspects:
· Reasonable participation fees ($50 – $75).
· Prizes with unspecified or imprecise value.
· Realistic timeline.
Final Assessment:
· Detailed information about the jury committee and their expertise must be added.
· The monetary value of prizes should be clarified precisely.
· It is recommended to verify the organizing body of the competition.
· The topic is suitable for ArchUp and is related to the fields of architecture and educational design.
· The information gaps regarding the jury and prizes must be addressed before publication.