Call for Entries: Galapagos Retreat

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Puerto Ayora: The Heart of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are known for their fragile ecosystems, endemic species, and their role in Charles Darwin's theory of evolution. However, increasing tourism and urban expansion threaten this delicate balance. As visitor numbers rise and infrastructure demands grow, the islands face significant challenges in preserving their unique biodiversity while accommodating the needs of both locals and tourists. Unregulated construction, resource depletion, and habitat disruption have intensified concerns over sustainable development in this ecologically sensitive region.

The Challenge is to develop a sustainable eco-hotel in the Galapagos, the design must balance conservation, innovation, and community engagement. In Puerto Ayora's fragile ecosystem, it should prioritize adaptive reuse, low-impact methods, and alignment with local ecological and cultural values.

Sustainability & Environment : Repurpose unfinished buildings using local materials (volcanic rock, bamboo) and passive design (natural ventilation, solar shading). Integrate renewable energy (solar panels, rainwater harvesting) and sustainable waste systems (composting, greywater recycling).
Architecture & Structure : Ensure modular, flexible designs for future expansion with lightweight constructionand climate-responsive facades, blending with the Galapagos landscape.
Tourism & Community : Promote eco-tourism, local involvement, and shared public spaces, while encouraging sustainable mobility (bike paths, electric transport.

Keywords: Addition, Reuse, Identity, Detail, Adaptability

Prizes:

1st prize
1500 €

2st prize
800 €

Editor Choice Prize
400 €

3 x Honorable Mentions
100 €

Timeline:

Apr 1, 2025 – Apr 7, 2025
Free Registration

Apr 8, 2025 – Apr 30, 2025
Early Registration - 15 €

Apr 29, 2025 – May 15, 2025
Standard Registration - 25 €

May 15, 2025 – May 27, 2025
Late Registration - 40 €

May 28, 2025 – May 31, 2025
Submission Deadline

Jul 15, 2025
Winners Announcement

Download the information related to this competition here.

• Title

  Call for Entries: Galapagos Retreat

• Type

  Competition Announcement (Ideas)

• Website

  https://idoarch.com/galapagos-retreat/

• Organizers

  IDOARCH

• Registration Deadline

  May 27, 2025 12:00 AM

• Submission Deadline

  May 31, 2025 12:00 AM

• Venue

  Puerto Ayora, Ecuador

• Price

  Early Registration - 15 €