Site 01 — Cidade Velha / Santiago
History, Atlantic landscape and contemporary living
Oceanfront site of approximately 3,000 sqm in a UNESCO-sensitive context. Suggested 18–24 units. Maximum one storey. Terraced parking integrated within the slope.
Competition
Real Sites, Real Conditions, Real Future Potential
The 2026 edition is structured around three real sites on three different islands, each with a distinct landscape condition, programme logic and architectural ambition.
Site 02 — Salmansa / São Vicente
Quiet luxury between dunes, rocks and ocean
Site of approximately 13,000 sqm with 12–18 single-storey villas, clubhouse, public-facing restaurant, infinity pool, padel and landscape-integrated parking.
Site 03 — Sal Rei / Boa Vista
Urban island living for the future of Sal Rei
Site of approximately 4,000 sqm close to the centre of Sal Rei and around 400 metres from the sea. Maximum ground floor plus first floor. Integrated urban parking and shared spaces.
Participation
Open Internationally
- Architects
- Designers
- Urbanists
- Professional studios
- Students
- Multidisciplinary teams
- Digital artists
- AI-assisted teams
Categories
Three Entry Paths
- Emerging Talents
- Professional Studios
- Experimental & AI Architecture
Official Language
English
All briefs, submissions, descriptions and official communication are structured in English in order to position the competition internationally and ensure consistency across participants and partners.
Submission
Clear, Compact and Anonymous
- Maximum 3 vertical A1 boards
- Concept description of approximately 500–700 words
- Minimum 2 exterior renders
- 1 aerial view
- 1 visual explaining parking integration
- Optional AI visuals
- Optional video up to 90 seconds
- Anonymous submission required
Evaluation
What the Jury Will Look For
- Architectural quality
- Relationship to site and landscape
- Climate responsiveness
- Realism and buildability
- Spatial intelligence
- Quality of parking integration
- Originality and cultural relevance
- Clarity of submission and overall vision
Timeline
2026 Competition Calendar
Structured to support clarity, participation and a strong public-facing announcement cycle.