Competition Brief & Overview
Participants are invited to design a contemporary tea house experience in Cappadocia's Red Valley, Turkey. The project must create a retreat that connects visitors to the extraordinary landscape through relaxation, gastronomy, and contemplation. The design should be integrated into two natural plateaus separated by a road: Plateau A (1,400 m²) will host the main tea house with dining areas, rest spaces, courtyards, gardens, and a sunset terrace overlooking Red Valley; Plateau B (1,100 m²) will serve as an arrival point with lightweight infrastructure and a landmark element. The architecture must be sensitive and low-scale, prioritizing views, pedestrian paths, shade, water, vegetation, and the relationship between indoor and outdoor spaces. Maximum land occupancy is 300 m² with a height limit of 4.50 m (except for 'The Maker' landmark at 6.00 m). The design must adapt to existing topography and preserve the geological and visual character of this UNESCO World Heritage Site.
Eligibility & Target Participants
Open to all qualified architects and architecture students worldwide. Teams may include up to 5 members. English must be maintained as the official language. At least one certified architect per team is recommended.
Submission Guidelines & Full Rules
Paid entry with tiered registration fees: Pre-registration (October 5-11, 2026): $47.00; Special Registry (October 12-31, 2026): $68.00; Early Registration (November 1-22, 2026): $79.00; Late Registration (November 23-December 7, 2026): $97.00. Payment accepted via credit/debit card (VISA, Mastercard, American Express) through PayPal/Stripe, or cash payment at convenience stores/Western Union.
1st Prize: US $9,000 plus exhibition and diffusion on main architecture sites worldwide and inclusion in virtual booklet of best proposals. 3 Honorable Mentions: Exhibition and diffusion on main architecture sites worldwide and inclusion in virtual booklet of best proposals. All winners and honorable mention recipients receive participation certificates from WAC.