Competitions
Resources
GET INSPIRED
About
Buildner for
Launch a competition
  • Buildner
  • Launch architecture competition

Launch an architecture competition with Buildner

Contact now

For cultural institutions

Architecture competitions are a powerful way for museums, galleries, and cultural organizations to explore new ideas, strengthen identity, and engage the public through design. They invite global creativity to reimagine spaces for art, heritage, and community. Buildner helps cultural institutions curate competitions that not only result in exceptional architecture but also generate dialogue, visibility, and long-term cultural value.

  • Strengthen Cultural Identity
  • Engage the Public
  • Attract Global Creativity

Choose your competition!

Buildner offers three types of competitions — from quick design challenges to large global events.
We handle everything from concept to results.

Quick Design Challenge

Get fresh creative ideas for your space or product in just a few weeks.

Open Design Competition

Engage a global community of architects to find the best concept for your project.

Global Architecture Event

Create a large-scale international competition that sparks global attention and drives real impact — for cities, companies, or social causes.

Invitation-only Competitions

Collaborate directly with a select group of world-class architects to design an outstanding, high-profile project.

Duration /
Reach

1–4 weeks /
Local

2–6 months /
International

2-6 months /
Global

Flexible /
Private / Select
Audience

Project
Size

Small – single
element or detail

All sizes - full
building or site

All sizes - full
building or site

All sizes - full
building or site

Best For

Private individuals, small brands, or households.

Individuals, brands, and companies of any size.

Corporations, governments, major brands, and large architecture studios.

Clients seeking prestige projects — cultural institutions, developers, or private patrons.

Prizes

Recommended

€5,000 –
€10,000

€10,000 –
€30,000

€30,000 –
€500,000+

€30,000 –
€500,000+

Buildner Service Fee

No fee for NGOs

Request a quote
Request a quote
Request a quote
Request a quote

Examples

Design a façade, reimagine an interior, develop a street bench or small pavilion.

Design a cultural pavilion, visitor center, lookout tower, boutique hotel, or spa.

Create a city sculpture, urban revitalization, new district identity

Invite leading studios to design a museum, HQ, or public landmark

Quick Design Challenge

Open Design Competition

Global Architecture Event

Invitation-only Competitions

Examples

Examples

Examples

Open Design Competition

Engage a global community of architects to find the best concept for your project.

Examples
Global Architecture Event

Create a large-scale international competition that sparks global attention and drives real impact — for cities, companies, or social causes.

Examples
Invitation-only Competitions

Collaborate directly with a select group of world-class architects to design an outstanding, high-profile project.

Examples

Case study: The Buildner–Mujassam Watan Initiative partnership

How a national cultural initiative in Saudi Arabia used an international competition to shape landmark sculptures for two major public sites in the Eastern Province.

MUJASSAM WATAN URBAN SCULPTURE CHALLENGE /
50,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invited architects and artists to design site-specific sculptures for two strategic locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a gateway highway linking Saudi Arabia with its Gulf neighbours, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a contemporary waterfront district. The brief asked designers to create works that express Saudi identity, reflect national heritage and future aspirations, and respond to each site's distinct conditions—high-speed highway visibility on one hand, and public waterfront engagement on the other. The competition aimed to generate bold, durable, and meaningful landmarks that enhance the cultural landscape of the Eastern Province and support the Kingdom's broader vision for renewal and creative expression.

Learn more

Case study: The Buildner–Peja Culture Pavilion partnership

How a cultural coalition in Peja, Kosovo used an international competition to revive a historic public site around a protected 15th-century water fountain.

PEJA CULTURE PAVILION COMPETITION /
10,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

In collaboration with Collective Action for Culture, the Municipality of Peja, the Ministry of Culture, and the Office of the President of Kosovo, Buildner launched a competition to reimagine a neglected city-center site anchored by a protected 15th-century water fountain. The brief called for a multifunctional pavilion, outdoor amphitheater, public art areas, and new green spaces—revitalizing the urban environment while preserving the fountain's historic significance. The project aimed to transform a long-underused area into an active cultural venue for performances, exhibitions, and community gatherings, blending contemporary design with the city's heritage.

Learn more

Case study: The Buildner–Morocco Oasis partnership

A glimpse into how a private family in Morocco used an architectural competition to shape a contemporary desert retreat rooted in heritage and landscape.

MOROCCO OASIS RETREAT COMPETITION /
10,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

For the Morocco Oasis Retreat, the Alaoui family sought a concept that could combine a private residence, guest suites, wellness areas, agricultural fields, and community-oriented spaces into a unified destination near Fes. The brief called for architecture that respects Islamic principles of modesty, engages with the desert ecosystem, and reflects Moroccan artisanal traditions. Designers were asked to propose a vision where buildings, gardens, and natural resources work together to create a calm, sustainable environment suited for long-term family use and discreet hospitality.

Learn more

Case study: The Buildner–De Smet Development Corporation partnership

How a rural community in South Dakota used an international architecture competition to shape a new landmark and strengthen its tourism vision.

THE LEGENDARY HIGHWAY 14 TOWER COMPETITION /
10,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

The Legendary Highway 14 Tower competition invited architects to design an iconic observation tower and accompanying landscape elements overlooking Silver Lake and the Big Slough ecosystem. The brief called for a structure 12–15 meters high, ADA-compliant, sustainable, and safe across extreme seasonal conditions, with materials suited for long-term durability. The project's goal was to enhance visitor experience, connect with the region's natural and historic assets—including the Laura Ingalls Wilder heritage—and support the ongoing development of the Highway 14 Tower Trail as a catalyst for local and regional tourism.

Learn more

Case study: Kingspan's Microhome

Kingspan teams up with Buildner for architectural innovation!

COMPETITION ORGANISERS

Official PARTNER

Kingspan, a global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions, has joined forces with Buildner, renowned for orchestrating some of the most dynamic and engaging architectural competitions worldwide.

This collaboration has paved the way for the Microhome Competition, a platform not only showcasing cutting-edge design but also emphasizing sustainability and innovative use of Kingspan's products. This partnership underlines a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural creativity, offering a unique stage for designers and architects globally to display their talents and vision.

Case study

Buildner’s expertise in managing global competitions ensures a diverse range of ideas and solutions, fostering a rich dialogue among participants and the wider industry. As [MICROHOME competition] partners, we appreciate the ability to connect architects, designers and enthusiasts from around the world, creating a vibrant community focused on the future of living spaces.

Kingspan Group
Fiona Barry

Case study: The Buildner–Dubai Roads and Transport Authority (RTA) & Dubai Government partnership

How Dubai's public-sector partners used an international competition to shape new human-scale design elements across the city.

DUBAI URBAN ELEMENTS CHALLENGE /
500,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

The Dubai Urban Elements Challenge called on architects and designers to rethink the small but influential components of the city's public realm—such as benches, lighting, pedestrian bridges, shading structures, and bike facilities. Participants were tasked with creating a unified design language for seven distinct urban zones, each with its own density, character, and cultural context. The brief focused on elevating everyday urban elements to strengthen Dubai's identity, improve comfort in extreme climate conditions, and support more cohesive, walkable, and engaging public spaces across the city.

Learn more

Case study: The Buildner-Dubai innovative partnership

Insights into a pioneering architectural collaboration between Buildner and Dubai government

HOUSE OF THE FUTURE COMPETITION /
250,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

The "House of the Future" competition, initiated by the Dubai government, challenges architects and designers to develop innovative housing designs for Dubai's residents. The primary goal is to create homes that are culturally resonant, aesthetically pleasing, sustainable, and smart, all within a budget of no more than 1 million Emirati Dirhams.

Learn more

The House of the Future competition reaffirmed Dubai's position as a beacon of innovation and creativity on the global stage, driven by our dedication to improving the quality of life for the people of Dubai.

His Highness Sheikh Hamdan Bin Mohammed Bin Rashid Al Maktoum
Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council

Case study: The Buildner–City of Denver–AIA Colorado collaboration

How Denver and AIA Colorado partnered with Buildner to explore new architectural strategies for delivering high-quality affordable housing across the city.

DENVER AFFORDABLE HOUSING
CHALLENGE / 20,000 USD PRIZE FUND

Organized jointly by the City and County of Denver, AIA Colorado, and Buildner, the competition invited architects to propose concepts that combine affordability with design excellence. The brief challenged participants to rethink housing at multiple scales—from individual buildings to district-level strategies and policy frameworks—while responding to Denver's climate risks, rising construction costs, zoning constraints, and the city's long-term vision for equitable, resilient urban growth.

Learn more

Throughout the process, Buildner proved to be a highly organized and knowledgeable partner with a clear understanding of how to successfully execute Denver Affordable Housing competition. Their team provided thoughtful guidance and hands-on support at every stage, including coordinating with our volunteers and internal team, managing the call for submissions, recruiting and organizing a highly qualified jury, and presenting the winning projects in a clear and compelling way.

AIA Colorado
Jon Bell, Communications and Creative Director

Buildner + Norman Foster Foundation and UNECE
in Ukraine

COMPETITION ORGANISERS

Buildner, in collaboration with the Norman Foster Foundation, the United Nations Economic Commission for Europe (UNECE), ARUP, and the Kharkiv City Council, has launched an architecture competition in Kharkiv, Ukraine. This competition addresses the urgent need for reconstruction in the city, which is located near the Russian border and has been significantly impacted by the ongoing conflict.

Participants have the chance to see their designs realized, with winning projects being developed into detailed construction plans in collaboration with local teams. This initiative not only aims to repair but also to improve living conditions, offering a unique opportunity to positively impact Kharkiv’s future resilience and quality of life.

Competition

Case study: The Buildner–Mujassam Watan Initiative partnership

How a national cultural initiative in Saudi Arabia used an international competition to shape landmark sculptures for two major public sites in the Eastern Province.

MUJASSAM WATAN URBAN SCULPTURE CHALLENGE /
50,000 EURO PRIZE FUND

The Mujassam Watan Urban Sculpture Challenge invited architects and artists to design site-specific sculptures for two strategic locations: Abu Hadriyah Road, a gateway highway linking Saudi Arabia with its Gulf neighbours, and the Tharwa Sea Front in Al-Khobar, a contemporary waterfront district. The brief asked designers to create works that express Saudi identity, reflect national heritage and future aspirations, and respond to each site's distinct conditions—high-speed highway visibility on one hand, and public waterfront engagement on the other. The competition aimed to generate bold, durable, and meaningful landmarks that enhance the cultural landscape of the Eastern Province and support the Kingdom's broader vision for renewal and creative expression.

Learn more

Case study: Kingspan's Microhome

Kingspan teams up with Buildner for architectural innovation!

COMPETITION ORGANISERS

Official PARTNER

Kingspan, a global leader in high-performance insulation and building envelope solutions, has joined forces with Buildner, renowned for orchestrating some of the most dynamic and engaging architectural competitions worldwide.

This collaboration has paved the way for the Microhome Competition, a platform not only showcasing cutting-edge design but also emphasizing sustainability and innovative use of Kingspan's products. This partnership underlines a shared commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural creativity, offering a unique stage for designers and architects globally to display their talents and vision.

Case study

Buildner’s expertise in managing global competitions ensures a diverse range of ideas and solutions, fostering a rich dialogue among participants and the wider industry. As [MICROHOME competition] partners, we appreciate the ability to connect architects, designers and enthusiasts from around the world, creating a vibrant community focused on the future of living spaces.

Kingspan Group
Fiona Barry

Invitation-only competition:
350,000 € Prize, Manila Bay Central Park Challenge

COMPETITION ORGANISERS

Official PARTNER

Buildner, in partnership with SM Prime Holdings, Inc., launched an invitation-only competition in Manila: The Manila Bay Central Park Challenge.

This prestigious competition aimed to design a landmark park for Manila’s future Central Business District, with a prize fund of 350,000 euros. The client ambitiously set a goal to create a space that rivals the iconic Marina Bay Sands in Singapore. The competition sought to develop a sustainable and iconic public space that would serve as a visual and cultural beacon for the city.

Examples

Examples

Examples

Open Design Competition

Global Architecture Event

Invitation-only Competitions

Why Buildner?

Fast facts

15

years of experience

178

successfully organised
competitions

See all results

559

guest jury members

See our guest jury

1214

awards granted

Testimonials

Our process

01 Kickoff & goals

We have a short discussion to agree on success metrics, audience, key dates, and budget.

02 Research & write the brief

We gather context and draft the brief (what to design, what to submit, how it's judged). You review; we finalize.

03 Pick the jury

We suggest a balanced list of experts, check for conflicts, and send invitations. You confirm the final panel.

04 Prep the launch

We build the competition webpage, visuals, timeline, and marketing plan. You approve the launch package.

05 Go live & support

Registration opens. We run the platform, answer Q&A, handle tech support, and send you a short weekly update.

06 Judging

Submissions close. We check entries, the jury reviews and meets, and a shortlist and winners are chosen.

07 Announce winners

We publish the results page, press release, and social toolkit. Winners are notified and prizes are paid.

08 Wrap-up next steps

You get a clear impact summary (entries, reach, key insights) and options for a webinar, exhibition, or follow - up work.

Your role

Brief

We write it. You just review for accuracy and must - haves, then approve.

Jury

We propose a balanced panel. You green - light the final list (and can suggest any must - include names).

Launch package

We build the webpage and visuals. You check brand usage/ logos and give the go - ahead to launch.

Shortlist

We run judging and share the shortlist. You can add comments or simply acknowledge it.

Results & press

We draft the results page, press release, and social copy. You approve quotes, titles, and logo usage.

Conference room with presentations

What we do

We design and deliver global, open architecture competitions and grants end-to-end—strategy, brief, jurying, operations, media, and impact reporting

Who we serve

  • Private individuals
  • Brands & product companies
  • Cities, public agencies & NGOs
  • Real estate developers
  • Educational institutions

Prize and scale range

From €10,000 to €500,000 prize funds. Recent examples:

€10k Portugal SPA
€20k AIA Denver Affordable Housing
€100k MICROHOME with Kingspan
€250k House of the Future (Dubai)
€500k Dubai Urban Elements Challenge

559 JURY NETWORK

Norman Foster

Norman Foster

Norman Foster Foundation
Spain

Philippe Starck

Philippe Starck

Creator
France

Farshid Moussavi

Farshid Moussavi

Farshid Moussavi Architecture (FMA)
United Kingdom

Alison Brooks

Alison Brooks

Alison Brooks Architects
UK

Lyndon Neri

Lyndon Neri

Neri&Hu Design and Research Office
China

Amanda Levete

Amanda Levete

Founder, AL_A

Francine Houben

Francine Houben

Founding Partner, Mecanoo
Netherlands

559 Jury Network

How we curate juries

Balance by geography, practice type, and expertise; combine practitioners, educators, curators, and brand/agency voices to match the brief and ensure rigorous debate.

How we keep it fair

Clear competition rules and terms, conflict-of-interest safeguards, and platform-level identity verification (KYC) to protect integrity and participants.

We also collaborate closely with ArchDaily via a formal content partnership around our flagship awards

Audience

Reach & visibility

Demographics & Composition

92% professional participation (licensed architects,
designers, and companies), with a 8% student share for
fresh academic perspective.

43%
34%
15%
8%
Architectural designers
Licensed architects
Companies
studios/firms
Students
3rd
United Kingdom
2nd Italy
1st
United States

Top countries by submissions

latest cycle shown

Audience & Visibility

Buildner owned channels

2M+ annual visitors
Website
300K+ subscribers
Newsletter
1M+ followers
Social media

Guaranteed media partnership

Strategic partner
The world's largest architecture news site
18M monthly visits
Reach
Guaranteed visibility
Recurring winner highlights and editorial series
Additional content
Live webinars and events

Testimonials

"More than a partner — a trusted advisor driving innovation in urban design"
SM PRIME
"Seamless, professional, and transparent process that fostered creative solutions and award-winning projects"
Turenscape
"Exceeded expectations – A successful global campaign that built community and showcased visionary ideas"
Kingspan Group
"The House of the Future competition reaffirmed Dubai's position as a beacon of innovation and creativity on the global stage, driven by our dedication to improving the quality of life for the people of Dubai"
Crown Prince of Dubai and Chairman of the Executive Council
"Buildner's expertise in curating and managing international design competition enabled a seamless process—one that successfully attracted globally recognized talent and fostered a rich exchange of ideas"
David González Márquez
Secretary-General
Norman Foster Foundation

Partners

Buildner’s academic network

Buildner has established one of the most extensive university networks in architecture, currently connecting with 1,300+ institutions worldwide. This reach provides invaluable access to academia, engaging students and faculty while fostering the next generation of architects.

Explore our current ranking of the most engaged universities here.

Next steps & contact

Schedule a 10-minute call

01 Quick intro

We'll help you find the right competition format, prize fund, and level of storytelling you need.

02 Tailored plan

We'll help you find the right competition format, prize fund, and level of storytelling you need.

03 Clear path

You'll leave with a clear plan and a simple list of approvals we'll handle together.

What we'll ask you

Objectives

What does success look like for you? (e.g., brand awareness, insights, hiring)

Topic/Site

What are your preferred launch and results dates?

Budget

What is your target prize fund and comfort range for organizing and marketing?

Must-Haves

Are there any jury names, regions, languages, or specific brand guidelines we need to include?

Contact us today!

Send a message
Government agencies Non-profit organisations Real estate developers Construction product brands
Educational institutions Hospitality industries Cultural institutions Invitation-only Competitions

This website uses cookies to improve user experience and gather usage statistics.

More information is available in our Privacy & Cookie policy

Reject Accept