Overview
Throughout history, humans have created landmarks — from pyramids to cathedrals to skyscrapers — to unite communities, showcase progress, and spark inspiration. Now, Shift, a new social venture founded by Dutch entrepreneur Don Ritzen, aims to construct a landmark specifically designed to inspire climate action and attract over 1 million annual visitors. To turn this ambitious vision into reality, Shift is launching an international architecture competition on January 15, 2025, with a total prize pool of €250,000.
Supported by a network of Dutch strategic partners and impact financiers, the first Shift landmark will be built in the Netherlands, a country where 55% of the land is at risk of flooding due to rising sea levels and river flooding. Shift envisions a dynamic space where architects, activists, scientists, and entrepreneurs can collaborate, sharing stories of climate and sustainability pioneers to inspire large-scale action.
Why You Should Participate
This competition presents a unique opportunity for architects to contribute to sustainable architecture and climate-conscious design on a global scale. With an emphasis on behavioral change, the project aims to create an immersive and inspiring space that fosters awareness, hope, and action. Participants will have the chance to:
- Influence global climate action through innovative architecture.
- Gain international recognition by contributing to a high-profile sustainability project.
- Compete for a substantial prize pool, with finalists receiving funding to develop their concepts further.
- Collaborate with leading experts in sustainability, biodiversity, real estate, and impact investing.
Key Highlights
- Competition Phases: The competition consists of two phases:
- The first phase is open to architects worldwide.
- Five finalists will be selected for the second phase to further develop their designs.
- Guaranteed Finalist Spots: Two of the five finalist spots are reserved for firms directly invited by Shift:
- One globally renowned architecture firm.
- One innovative smaller firm.
- Jury Panel: The competition will be judged by an international panel from architecture, impact investing, biodiversity, academia, real estate, and cultural sectors, including:
- Aric Chen (Nieuwe Instituut)
- Astrid Leyssens (We Are Impact Collective)
- Ben van Berkel (UNStudio)
- Clemens Brenninkmeijer (Redevco)
- Géke Roelink (Nemo)
- Dr. Lewis Akenji (Hot or Cool Institute)
- Lodewijk Hoekstra (NL Greenlabel)
- Mireia Luzárraga (TAKK)
- Nicole Maarsen (Social Value Foundation)
Entry Fees
| Registration Period | Entry Fee (€) |
|---|---|
| Early Registration | €100 |
| Regular Registration | €150 |
| Late Registration | €200 |
Important Dates
| Phase | Date |
|---|---|
| Competition Launch | January 15, 2025 |
| Early Registration Deadline | March 1, 2025 |
| Regular Registration Deadline | May 15, 2025 |
| Late Registration Deadline | July 1, 2025 |
| Final Submission Deadline | August 10, 2025 |
| Winner Announcement | October 1, 2025 |
Prizes and Recognition
| Award | Prize (€) |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | €50,000 |
| Five Finalists (each) | €40,000 |
| Total Prize Pool | €250,000 |
Submission Details
- Submission Format: Light submission requirements to encourage maximum creativity.
- Intellectual Property: Non-selected concepts remain the property of the architects.
- Team Expansion: Finalists will extend their teams with experts in behavior, sustainability, and immersive experiences.
How to Join
- Register online (registration link).
- Submit your initial design proposal by the specified deadline.
- Wait for finalist selection and proceed to the second phase if shortlisted.
Judging Criteria
- Sustainability & Innovation: How well does the design push the boundaries of sustainable architecture?
- Inspirational Impact: Does the landmark inspire climate action?
- Integration with Surroundings: How seamlessly does the design blend with the Netherlands’ environmental and cultural landscape?
- Feasibility & Practicality: Can the design be realistically executed?
