Design the Future of Sustainable Tourism in Kerala
An architectural competition to design an innovative, movable riverside cottage in Thalassery for Barefoot Monsoon Camping & Kayaking.
Learn MoreThe Vision
This section introduces the core idea behind the competition. We are seeking to blend innovative design with deep respect for nature, creating a prototype for a new kind of sustainable tourism experience in Kerala.
An Initiative by homesign.com.au
As a Sydney-based design and construction company, **homesign.com.au** is excited to launch our first architectural competition in India. We believe in fostering new talent and pushing the boundaries of sustainable design.
This competition is the first step in exploring our new venture, **Barefoot Monsoon Camping & Kayaking**, which aims to create unique, eco-conscious tourism experiences that allow guests to connect deeply with the stunning landscapes of Kerala.
Location Spotlight: Thalassery
The project site is a scenic, riverside plot in Thalassery, Kannur District. Your design must be elevated to capitalize on the breathtaking views over the river and lush mangrove forests, creating a structure that feels both secure and immersed in nature.
The Challenge
This section details the core design constraints and goals. Your submission will be judged on how creatively and effectively you meet these key requirements, blending functionality with innovative, sustainable solutions.
Budget: Below ₹6.5 Lakhs
The total all-inclusive construction cost must not exceed this budget. Cost-effectiveness is crucial.
Core Spaces & Elevation
Design must include at least one bedroom, one bathroom, and be elevated for views over the mangroves.
Sustainability First
Incorporate local materials, passive cooling, rainwater harvesting, and ensure minimal site disruption.
Mobility & Modularity
Preference for designs using prefabricated or modular components for efficient construction.
Aesthetics & Retreat
The design should be simple and elegant, creating a tranquil retreat that connects with nature.
Submission Format
Submit a single PDF (max 20MB) with 4x A3 design sheets, a 500-word concept note, and a budget estimate.
Competition Timeline
This timeline outlines the key dates for the competition. Mark your calendars to ensure you meet all the important deadlines from registration to final submission.
November 18, 2025
Registration Deadline
Submit your team details to enter the competition.
Date TBD (in December)
On-Site Visit & Briefing
An optional site visit in Thalassery with our project lead. RSVP required.
January 26, 2026
Submission Deadline
Final day to submit your complete design proposal PDF.
February 13, 2026
Winner Announcement
The winning team will be announced and contacted.
Judging Criteria
To ensure a fair and transparent evaluation, your submissions will be scored based on the following criteria. This chart provides a clear breakdown of what our judges will be looking for. Focus your efforts on the areas with the highest weight to maximize your chances of success.
- 30% - Creativity & Innovation
- 30% - Sustainability & Environmental Response
- 20% - Cost-Effectiveness & Feasibility
- 10% - Adherence to Brief & Functionality
- 10% - Presentation Quality
The Grand Prize: Build Your Vision
The prize for this competition is more than an award; it's a career-defining opportunity. This section explains the unique reward awaiting the winning team.
From Concept to Construction
The winning individual or team will be given the incredible opportunity to **bring their design to life**. You won't just win a certificate; you will collaborate directly with the **homesign.com.au** team to develop working drawings and oversee the construction of your project in Thalassery. This is a chance to gain unparalleled, real-world experience in project execution, client interaction, and sustainable building practices, turning your academic project into a built reality.
Ready to Enter?
Follow these simple steps to register for the competition. Participation is open to all current undergraduate and postgraduate architecture students in Kerala. Teams can have a maximum of three members.
Click to open the registration form.