INTRODUCTION
Welcome to “Beyond Sight – The Blind Experience,” a groundbreaking museum design initiative aimed at revolutionizing the way we perceive and interact with art. Organized by Archiol Competitions, this design challenge seeks to push the boundaries of traditional museum architecture by prioritizing accessibility, inclusivity, and sensory engagement.
In a world where the visual is often privileged in artistic experiences, “Beyond Sight” dares participants to reimagine museum spaces through the lens of the blind and visually impaired. By shifting the focus from sight to touch, sound, smell, and spatial awareness, designers are tasked with creating an immersive environment where everyone, regardless of visual ability, can fully engage with and appreciate the richness of art.
This competition is not just about architectural innovation; it’s about empathy, understanding, and breaking down barriers. How can we design spaces that foster a deeper connection between art and audience, transcending traditional notions of perception? How can we harness the power of sensory experience to create a more inclusive cultural landscape?
Join us on this journey to explore the possibilities of “Beyond Sight” and redefine the museum experience for generations to come.
OBJECTIVE
The objective of Beyond Sight – The Blind Experience museum design is to create an immersive and inclusive environment that enables visitors to explore and appreciate art and culture through senses other than sight. The design should aim to engage visitors of all abilities by incorporating tactile, auditory, olfactory, and other sensory experiences, thereby fostering empathy, understanding, and appreciation for the blind and visually impaired community. Additionally, the design should prioritize accessibility, sustainability, and innovative architectural solutions to create a truly unique and memorable museum experience.
THE BUILDING PROGRAMME
- Accessibility: The museum design must prioritize accessibility for visitors with visual impairments. This includes ensuring barrier-free access throughout the facility, including entrances, exits, pathways, and exhibits.
- Tactile and Sensory Experiences: Incorporate tactile and sensory elements into the design to provide a multi-dimensional experience for visitors. This can include textured surfaces, interactive exhibits, and audio descriptions to enhance the understanding and appreciation of the exhibits.
- Wayfinding: Implement clear and intuitive wayfinding systems to assist visitors in navigating the museum independently. This may involve tactile maps, auditory cues, and braille signage placed at strategic locations throughout the facility.
- Spatial Organization: Design the layout of the museum to facilitate ease of movement and exploration for visitors of all abilities. Consider factors such as circulation paths, exhibit spacing, and seating areas to ensure a seamless and enjoyable experience for everyone.
- Universal Design Principles: Incorporate universal design principles to create an inclusive environment that accommodates the diverse needs of all visitors. This includes providing alternative formats for information presentation, adjustable seating options, and accessible restrooms.
- Safety and Security: Prioritize the safety and security of all visitors by implementing appropriate measures such as non-slip flooring, handrails, and emergency evacuation procedures that are accessible to individuals with visual impairments.
PROJECT PROPOSAL REQUIREMENT
Submissions should include the following:
- Architectural drawings and plans (floor plans, elevations, sections, and site plans).
- A design concept statement explaining the creative vision, inspiration, and how the design addresses the senses.
- Detailed descriptions of the design.
- Sustainability features and a statement on environmental impact.
- Cost estimate and construction timeline (optional).
- High-quality visualizations or renderings.
JURY
We collaborate with leading architects, designers, and academicians of international repute to participate as jury members in our competitions.
AWARDS
- Top 3: Certificate + Interview + Publication (Archiol) + score card with inputs
- Honourable mention: Certificate + Publication (Archiol).
- Shortlisted: Certificate.
EIGIBILITY
The competition is open to architects, designers, artists, and creative thinkers from around the world. Participants can enter as individuals or in teams (max. 4 members in one team).
TIMELINE
- Registration Opens: 1st August 2024
- Registration Deadline: 31st July 2025
- Submission Deadline: 10th August 2025
- Winners Announcement: 10th November 2025
REGISTRATION FEES
| REGISTRATION | TIMELINE | INTERNATIONAL FEES
(USD) |
INDIAN FEES
(INR) |
|
| ADVANCED REG 01 | Aug 01 – Aug 31 | 2024 | 27 | 700 |
| AR 02 | Sept 01 – Sept 30 | 2024 | 30 | 900 |
| STANDARD REG 01 | Oct 01 – Oct 31 | 2024 | 32 | 1000 |
| SR 02 | Nov 01 – Nov 30 | 2024 | 34 | 1200 |
| SR 03 | Dec 01 – Dec 31 | 2024 | 36 | 1400 |
| SR 04 | Jan 01 – Jan 31 | 2025 | 38 | 1600 |
| SR 05 | Feb 01 – Feb 28 | 2025 | 40 | 1650 |
| SR 06 | Mar 01 – Mar 31 | 2025 | 42 | 1700 |
| SR 07 | Apr 01 – Apr 30 | 2025 | 44 | 1750 |
| LATE REG 01 | May 01 – May 31 | 2025 | 46 | 1800 |
| LR 02 | Jun 01 – Jun 30 | 2025 | 48 | 1900 |
| LR 03 | Jul 01 – Jul 31 | 2025 | 50 | 2000 |
DISCOUNTS
- Architecture Students group
- min. 5 participants from the same institution: 10% off on standard & late registration fee.
- min. 15 participants from the same institution: 20% off on standard & late registration fee.
SUBMISSION REQUIREMENTS
Participants are required to submit the following materials:
- Design sheets (2 -5) jpeg. / jpg. Format. (dimension: 30cm x 30cm, file size: 25mb)
- Design description with a title (Min. 300 words) – docx. / docs. Format
