VARES Spring Residency 2026
Competition Brief
VARES Spring Residency 2026 is an open call for architects, designers, and interdisciplinary spatial practitioners. The program investigates experimental architectural practices through material reuse and spatial research methods which differ from traditional methods of architectural design. For broader context on similar research-based programs, see our overview of architecture competitions.
The program emphasizes working with existing environments, local contexts, and ordinary materials because it sees architecture as a practice which needs to adapt to its environment and local conditions. Researchers have explored experimental design methods through various competitions which focus on material use and design principles and through research-oriented calls presented in ArchUp architecture news.
Intent
The experimental spatial practices of the participants will be developed through research work which includes material testing and investigation of real environments.
Purpose
The purpose is to support alternative architectural practices that prioritize reuse, care, adaptation, and critical reflection on dominant building systems.
Requirements
Applicants must submit a CV, portfolio if available, a motivation letter or project proposal, and supporting visual material. The call is open to professionals, students, and interdisciplinary practitioners.
Jury
The VARES selection committee consists of members who are part of the curatorial team:
- Ulla Alla — Curator
- Merilin Kaup — Curator
- Mari Möldre — Curator
- Margus Tammik — Curator
Fees
| Category | Fee |
|---|---|
| Application Fee | Free |
Rewards
| Support Type | Details |
|---|---|
| Stipend | €30 per day |
| Special Stipend | €3000 for Ukrainian applicants |
| Travel Support | Provided based on distance and needs |
| Production Budget | Limited material and project support |
Dates
| Milestone | Date |
|---|---|
| Application Deadline | 05 March 2026 |
| Residency Period | 11 May 2026 – 28 June 2026 |
| Public Sharing Event | 27 June 2026 – 28 June 2026 |
| Results Announcement | Mid March 2026 |
✦ ArchUp Competition Review
The VARES program implements its exhibition through a curatorial team who works with designated curators to create basic transparency which allows internal selection procedures to proceed without public competition. The program operates as research and experimental residency which does not function as a promotional platform or design competition for professional purposes. The financial support provided to the project delivers only basic funding which does not match the extent of research work required for the project. The main benefits derived from the project include research development and experimental work which help to build professional portfolios for participants. The selection committee consists of curators with cultural practice backgrounds rather than formal architectural competition jurors.
Critical Conclusion
VARES Spring Residency 2026 serves as a venue which supports slow development of experimental spatial design through its innovative design process. The architectural design process of the organization uses existing materials and research to create design solutions according to its existing practices. The open framework of the project together with its limited funding system will create challenges for practitioners who need to deliver specific results and require funding to implement their work. The residency program provides main advantages to researchers and conceptual practitioners while it does not create value for designers who work on actual product development.
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