Introduction
Welcome to the 4th Edition of “Into the Rabbit Hole”, an architecture design competition that invites you to embark on an exhilarating journey into the depths of creativity and innovation. Organized by Archiol Competitions, this global event challenges architects, designers, and visionaries to reimagine the boundaries of architecture and envision spaces that serve as sanctuaries for mental healing and well-being.
In 2025, as the world continues to grapple with the escalating challenges of mental health, architects and designers have a unique opportunity to make a meaningful impact. “Into the Rabbit Hole” dares you to transcend the conventional, break free from the ordinary, and design architectural solutions that profoundly enhance human well-being. This competition is more than a design challenge; it is a call to action—to innovate, to inspire, and to make a difference.
We encourage participants to explore the uncharted, embrace the unconventional, and dream without limits. Your designs should not only be physical structures but transformative spaces that soothe, heal, and inspire. Architecture holds the power to shape lives, and through “Into the Rabbit Hole,” we aim to harness that power to address one of humanity’s most pressing needs: mental well-being.
Join us in this extraordinary exploration where creativity knows no bounds. Together, let’s delve into the “Rabbit Hole” of possibilities and create designs that redefine architecture’s role in mental health.
Objective
The objective of this competition is to unleash the potential of architectural imagination to create spaces that promote mental healing and well-being. Participants are invited to design an innovative “underland”—a subterranean sanctuary that uses geometry, volume, and spatial design to foster solace and rejuvenation.
The Building Programme
Participants are tasked with designing a groundbreaking “underland” that prioritizes tranquility, mental healing, and sensory engagement. The programme should integrate:
- Spatial Fluidity – An interplay of light, shadow, and volumes to create immersive experiences.
- Nature Integration – The use of natural elements such as water, vegetation, and air circulation to enhance the healing process.
- Sensory Stimulation – A design that considers texture, acoustics, and lighting to evoke calmness and introspection.
- Adaptive Use – Flexible spaces that cater to different therapeutic needs, from meditation rooms to interactive environments.
Eligibility
- Open to architects, designers, and students worldwide.
- Individuals or teams (up to 4 members) may participate.
Entry Fees
| Phase | Fee per Entry |
|---|---|
| Early Bird | $30 |
| Regular | $40 |
| Late | $50 |
Prizes and Recognition
| Prize Category | Award |
|---|---|
| 1st Place | $1000 + Certificate + Online Publication |
| 2nd Place | $600 + Certificate + Online Publication |
| 3rd Place | $400 + Certificate + Online Publication |
| Honorable Mentions | Certificates + Online Publication |
Submission Requirements
Participants must submit:
- Presentation Boards (A1 size, landscape orientation, 300 DPI, PDF format)
- Concept Statement (Max 500 words, explaining the design approach and concept)
- Participant Details (Name, Team Members, Institution/Organization, Contact Information)
Timeline
| Stage | Deadline |
|---|---|
| Registration Opens | March 1, 2025 |
| Early Bird Ends | March 20, 2025 |
| Regular Ends | April 10, 2025 |
| Late Ends | April 30, 2025 |
| Submission Deadline | May 10, 2025 |
| Results Announcement | June 5, 2025 |
How to Register
- Visit the official competition page.
- Complete the registration form.
- Pay the entry fee.
- Receive a unique registration code.
- Submit your entry before the deadline.
Judging Criteria
- Conceptual Clarity (30%) – Strength of the concept and how effectively it addresses mental well-being.
- Innovation & Creativity (30%) – Originality and uniqueness of the proposed design.
- Spatial & Sensory Experience (20%) – Integration of light, materials, and nature for a healing experience.
- Presentation (20%) – Clarity, coherence, and visual impact of the submitted boards.
