World Architecture Competitions has announced a new international design competition for an Alpine Hostel to be located in Julier Pass, Grisons, Switzerland. The competition calls for the creation of a mountain stopover facility that will serve as a place of rest and contemplation for travelers journeying through the Swiss Alps.
The proposed Alpine Refuge will function as a comprehensive mountain retreat designed to accommodate athletes and travelers seeking a comfortable and contemplative space to rest before continuing their alpine adventures. The facility will feature multiple components including hostel accommodations, an infirmary for medical needs, a café for refreshments, and an elevated viewing platform that will serve as a tourist lookout point.
The strategic location of the Alpine Hostel is designed to create a vital connection between the existing Hospice and the Julen Theater in the surrounding area. Competition organizers emphasize that the structure's mere presence should become a recognizable landmark along the mountain route, serving as a beacon for weary travelers navigating the challenging alpine terrain.
Architectural requirements for the competition specify that the design must be conceived as a structure capable of withstanding the test of time while remaining easy to maintain in the harsh mountain environment. The design proposal must demonstrate thoughtful integration with its natural alpine context, respecting both the environmental conditions and the scenic beauty of the Swiss Alps setting.
The competition is open to qualified architects and architecture students worldwide, with English maintained as the official language for all submissions. The comprehensive timeline begins with the call for announcement on September 22, followed by a pre-registration period from September 22-28, and official registration starting September 29.
Key dates in the competition schedule include the end of the first registration stage on October 24, announcement of evaluation committee members on November 10, and the conclusion of the consultation period on November 13. The second stage of registration ends on November 14, with the final registration deadline set for November 30, 2025.
Participants must submit their complete proposals by December 15, 2025, with the evaluation committee's judgment scheduled for December 22. Results will be disseminated on December 25, with awards ceremony following on December 26.
The competition offers substantial recognition for winners, with the first prize recipient receiving $4,000 USD along with exhibition and distribution across major architecture websites worldwide. The winning design will also be featured in a virtual booklet showcasing the best proposals from the competition.
Three honorable mentions will also be awarded, with recipients receiving exhibition and distribution opportunities on prominent architecture platforms worldwide, as well as inclusion in the virtual booklet of top proposals.
Registration fees vary according to the scheduled registration periods, with participants encouraged to check specific rates and complete competition rules at the World Architecture Competitions website. The competition represents an opportunity for architects to contribute to Switzerland's rich tradition of alpine architecture while addressing contemporary needs for sustainable mountain tourism infrastructure.
