About the Competition/Award
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.
Rising 600 feet above the pristine beaches of the Pacific Ocean on a private mountaintop, the retreat will be unlike any other hotel. Considered to offer the most breathtaking 360-degree views in all of Costa Rica, this retreat will be designed for exclusive full-property stays and will serve as a sanctuary of elevation – physical, emotional, and architectural – for private groups seeking privacy, inspiration, and transformation. The project aspires to achieve recognition in international design journals and to set a new benchmark for timeless architectural innovation.
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.
Extended Deadlines Due to High Interest
Registration Deadline: Saturday, September 20, 2025, 10:00 PM ET
Concept Submission Deadline: Saturday, October 25, 2025, 10:00 PM ET
Winner Announcement: Saturday, November 15, 2025, 12:00 Noon ET
Competition Highlights
Project Scope: Design an 8-10 room luxury retreat reserved for whole-property rental (not rented by individual rooms).
Guest Profile: Celebrities, executives, tastemakers, and discerning travelers seeking privacy and immersive natural experiences.
Vision & Backing: The project is fully financed and must blend seamlessly with nature, maintain construction affordability, and achieve global design acclaim.
Award: $2,000 USD honorarium, plus the opportunity for a full design commission under a professional services contract.
Design Requirements: Entries must include concept sketches / massing diagrams, narrative explaining design intent, mood board, and optional visuals as determined by each entrant. Details available here https://www.magnumopusresorts.com/the-competition
Judging Criteria
Architectural originality and vision
Integration with natural surroundings
Conceptual clarity and design language
Cost-aware, buildable solutions
Alignment with transformative guest experience
How to Participate
This global competition is open to architects, designers, and firms-individuals or teams. There are no restrictions on nationality, age or professional affiliation. No entry fee is required.
Register now and access the full competition brief at: www.magnumopusresorts.com/the-competition
About Magnum Opus Resorts:
Magnum Opus Resorts, a Miami Beach based hospitality company, is redefining boutique luxury through retreats that prioritize transformative experiences in world-class environments. Founded by a leadership team with deep expertise in hospitality management and finance, the company’s first retreat in Costa Rica was selected for its environmental beauty, spiritual energy, and unparalleled 360-degree views.
Media Contact:
Max Frank
Max@magnumopusresorts.com
To find more details & Register visit HERE
LAST DATE OF REGISTRATION: 20.09.2025
LAST DATE OF SUBMISSION: 25.10.2025
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