Overview
The Portugal Vez River SPA competition invites architects and designers to create a boutique wellness SPA that blends harmoniously with the serene banks of the Vez River in northern Portugal. Nestled beside a historic watermill, the competition site offers a rare opportunity to design a space that reflects the region’s tranquility and beauty while providing an intimate wellness experience.
The goal of the competition is to inspire designs that embrace the peaceful atmosphere of the Vez River, offering a thoughtful and relaxing wellness space. Architects are encouraged to explore concepts that celebrate the connection between nature, relaxation, and design innovation, fostering a sense of balance and harmony.
This competition seeks creative and sensitive approaches that capture the spirit of the location. The resulting SPA should be a serene retreat, where architecture and nature come together to offer a rejuvenating escape in one of Portugal’s most picturesque settings.
The competition site itself is rich in character, featuring a centuries-old watermill with a restored waterwheel and lush greenery surrounding the riverbanks. The mill, once a hub for local activity, adds a sense of history and authenticity to the project. Architects are tasked with creating a design that integrates seamlessly with this unique setting, enhancing its natural and cultural significance.
Download the full competition brief for more information!
The competition is open to all, and no professional qualification is required. Design proposals can be developed individually or by teams (maximum 4 members). Correspondence with organizers must be conducted in English, and all submitted information must be in English.
Why You Should Participate
- Unique Design Challenge – The competition calls for designs that respect and enhance the natural and cultural significance of the site, incorporating the historic watermill and lush surroundings.
- Sustainability & Innovation – Participants are encouraged to explore eco-friendly materials, passive design strategies, and sustainable construction techniques to create an environmentally responsible retreat.
- Global Recognition – Winners will benefit from extensive media exposure through Buildner’s international architecture community, ArchDaily features, and various architecture publications.
- Career Advancement – Winning or being recognized in this competition offers valuable portfolio enhancement, networking opportunities, and potential career growth within the industry.
- Cash Prizes & Awards – A total of €10,000 in prize money will be awarded, including special recognitions for sustainability and student excellence.
Key Highlights
- Site: Located beside a centuries-old watermill on the banks of the Vez River, offering a unique design context.
- Competition Type: Open to students, architects, and designers worldwide (no professional qualification required).
- Submission Format: Digital proposals in English only.
- Teams: Individuals or teams (up to 4 members).
- Judging Panel: To be announced (previous juries have included top architects and industry experts).
Entry Fees
| Registration Phase | Full Award Package | No Monetary Award |
|---|---|---|
| Early Bird (Dec 10 – Feb 5) | €110 | €70 |
| Advanced (Feb 6 – Apr 2) | €120 | €80 |
| Last Minute (Apr 3 – Jun 11) | €140 | €100 |
+ 4.5% VAT applies to all fees.
Prizes and Recognition
| Award | Prize Money (€) |
|---|---|
| 1st Prize | €5,000 |
| 2nd Prize | €2,500 |
| 3rd Prize | €1,000 |
| Buildner Student Award | €1,000 |
| Buildner Sustainability Award | €500 |
| 6 Honorable Mentions | Certificates |
- Publicity & Exposure: Winners will be featured on Buildner.com, ArchDaily, and Buildner’s social media and newsletters (reaching over 2 million people).
- Interview & Film Opportunity: Winners may submit a project film and participate in an interview for increased recognition.
Submission Details
- Format: PDF submission, minimum 3 pages, maximum 6 pages.
- Language: English only.
- File Naming: CompetitionName_ParticipationCode.pdf.
- Anonymity: No names, logos, or identifying marks on submissions.
- Submission Content:
- Concept Narrative (explanation of the design approach).
- Site Integration Strategy (how the design complements the natural and cultural landscape).
- Drawings & Visuals (plans, sections, elevations, and 3D renderings).
- Sustainability Approach (use of materials, energy efficiency strategies, and environmental impact).
Important Dates
| Event | Date |
|---|---|
| Early Bird Registration Ends | Feb 5, 2025 |
| Advanced Registration Ends | Apr 2, 2025 |
| Final Registration Deadline | Jun 11, 2025 |
| Submission Deadline | Jul 17, 2025 |
| Winners Announced | Sep 23, 2025 |
How to Join
- Register for the competition via Buildner’s official website.
- Download the competition brief and all relevant materials (site plan, photos, videos).
- Develop your proposal following the submission guidelines.
- Upload your final submission before the deadline (Jul 17, 2025).
- Wait for the results announcement on Sep 23, 2025.
Judging Criteria
- Conceptual Strength – Does the design capture the spirit of the Vez River and the wellness experience?
- Site Integration – How well does the SPA blend with the landscape, watermill, and local ecosystem?
- Sustainability – Use of eco-friendly materials, passive design techniques, and energy efficiency.
- Functionality & User Experience – A wellness-oriented design that enhances relaxation and comfort.
- Aesthetic Quality – A visually compelling and timeless design that enriches the location.
