The house— a universal symbol of protection, intimacy, and identity— intertwines with the figure of a dictator, the embodiment of absolute power, control, and fear. This is not merely an architectural exercise, but an existential reflection: what is a house when it belongs to someone who wields unlimited power?
The “house of the dictator” is a paradox. On one hand, it is a fortress that conceals, protects, and isolates. On the other hand, it is a space of intimate vulnerability, a place where the dictator, whose figure is feared and alienated from the public sphere, reveals their humanity, with all its fragility and fears.
Today, the importance of questioning the relationship between power and private space is more relevant than ever. In a world marked by deep inequalities, forced migrations, and instability, architecture becomes a lens through which to analyze the dynamics of authoritarianism, protection, and isolation. What role does space play in consolidating or challenging power? How are the fears and ambitions of a dictator translated into the form of his home?
What is the true nature of this duality? Is it a refuge that offers security and isolation, or a prison that stifles and traps its inhabitant? Which walls symbolize the dominion of authoritarianism, and which reveal its flaws and contradictions?
Why You Should Participate
This competition invites participants to critically reflect on the role of power and isolation in architecture through the lens of a dictator’s home. This is an opportunity to explore how architecture can challenge traditional boundaries, merge functionality with psychological aspects, and redefine the concept of “home.”
By participating, you have the chance to engage with complex themes that touch on power, control, and vulnerability while offering new perspectives through creative, bold designs. The competition encourages innovative ideas that incorporate not only architectural elements but also social, cultural, and philosophical aspects of living under absolute power.
Key Highlights
- Theme: A house for a dictator—a reflection of power, control, vulnerability, and isolation.
- Objective: To design a space that philosophically and emotionally interprets domination and power.
- Approach: Designs that push boundaries, offering new perspectives, with no geographical, material, or technical restrictions.
- Judging Criteria: Innovation, creativity, philosophical depth, and aesthetic value.
Entry Fees
Registration Type | Fee (Euro) |
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Early Registration (20 January – 20 February) | 60 Euro |
Advance Registration (21 February – 21 April) | 90 Euro |
Last Minute Registration (22 April – 22 May) | 120 Euro |
Prizes and Recognition
Award | Amount (Euro) |
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1st Prize | €2,500 |
2nd Prize | €1,500 |
3rd Prize | €1,000 |
- Guest Jury: A distinguished panel of professionals and decision-makers in the field of architecture will evaluate the entries.
- Finalists: 10 finalist projects will be shortlisted.
- Winners: The top 3 winners will receive cash prizes and recognition on the competition’s official platforms.
Submission Details
Participants are encouraged to submit their designs that critically interpret the theme of “The House of the Dictator.” Entries should explore the concept of power, isolation, and vulnerability in a home environment.
Rules:
- Designs should be submitted in digital format.
- No direct religious, political, or sexual overtones will be allowed.
- Submissions must be original and submitted by the deadline.
Important Dates
Milestone | Date |
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Competition Launch Date | 2025-01-20 |
Registration Deadline | 2025-05-22 |
Project Submission Deadline | 2025-05-25 |
How to Join
- Register via the official competition website.
- Pay the appropriate registration fee based on your chosen registration period.
- Submit your final design by the project submission deadline.
- Wait for the announcement of finalists and winners.
Judging Criteria
The evaluation will be based on:
- Innovative design: Originality and creativity in representing the concept.
- Philosophical depth: How well the design reflects the themes of power, vulnerability, and isolation.
- Aesthetic value: Visual appeal and how the design integrates with its surroundings.
- Functionality: Practicality and how the space works within the context of the dictator’s role.