THE COMPETITION
The Magnum Opus Design Competition is an international call for visionary architects to propose/design a concept for a 8-10 room luxury boutique retreat located on 8 acres (3.25 hectares) of pristine land in the beautiful paradise of Costa Rica
STEP 1 - REVIEW THE ARCHITECTURAL BRIEF
STEP 2 - REGISTER YOUR INTEREST
The winner of the international competition will be awarded an honorarium and have the opportunity to design the retreat, subject to a mutually acceptable professional services contract.
Management believes that the property, properly positioned with the right design/architect should be featured on the cover of magazines internationally.
The design must inspire awe, be capable of winning awards, and speak a language of timeless simplicity and brilliance—without excessive cost.
Applicants have a unique opportunity to design a property for one of the most spectacular pieces of land in the world.
Extraordinary applicants only. We don’t do ordinary.
REGISTRATION
Saturday, September 6, 2025, 10:00 PM ET
CONCEPT SUBMISSION
Saturday, October 4, 2025, 10:00 PM ET
DESIGN REVIEW ANNOUNCEMENT
Saturday, October 18th, 2025, 12:00 Noon ET
STAGE 1: Registration - Saturday, September 6, 2025, 10:00 PM ET
This competition is open to all architects, designers, and firms from any country. Both individuals and teams may enter. There are NO restrictions on nationality, age, or professional affiliation.
We honor brilliance. If you have great vision, are smart, hardworking, and striving for excellence please apply.
Registration information shall include:
· Individual, corporate or team name
· Contact information (email, phone, mailing address)
· Link to portfolio
STAGE 2: Concept Submission - Saturday, October 4, 2025, 10:00 PM ET
This is a one-of-a-kind property on the west coast of Costa Rica. The views are 360 degrees (West looking towards the sunset, North and South views of the pristine coast of Costa Rica, and East to a spectacular rain forest jungle). This international search for a brilliant design to capture the magic of this incredible property is open to any individual or team. Concept submission shall include the following:
• Concept sketches / massing diagrams
• Narrative description of the design intent
• Images, collages, or mood board
• And any other information that you deem appropriate to showcase your special skills and unique ability to design for this phenomenal property.
Entries will be judged based on the following:
• Architectural originality and vision
• Integration with the natural surroundings
• Conceptual clarity and design language
• Cost-awareness and construction feasibility
• Alignment with project goals and user experience
Note: Structure shall note exceed 15 meters (45 feet) in height.
STAGE 3: Design Review Announcement - Saturday, October 18th, 2025, 12:00 Noon ET.
Following review of concept designs and interviews, one architect or team will receive $2,000 USD and be awarded the opportunity for design commission subject to mutual agreement by both parties for a professional services contract.
The awardee shall be notified by email and/or phone and must be available within 10 days following the announcement (by September 25, 2025) for an interview, and to discuss to next steps.
MORE INFORMATION ABOUT THE COMPETITION CAN BE FOUND HERE
Enter the Magnum Opus Resorts Design Contest. Register Today!