Persian Garden Suite

International Architectural Design Competition 2026–2027

Designing a Contemporary Persian-Inspired Garden Pavilion in Toronto

A global design competition exploring contemporary interpretations of the Persian garden through architecture, landscape, culture, and public space.

The Iranian Canadian Architects & Artists Forum (ICAAF), in collaboration with Rahshahr Canada, Urbanscape Architects, and Rahshahr International Group, invites architects, landscape architects, designers, artists, and students worldwide to participate in the Persian Garden Suite International Architectural Design Competition.

Participants are challenged to envision a contemporary Persian-inspired garden pavilion for Toronto that celebrates cultural heritage while responding to the needs of today's urban environment.

The winning proposal will receive a cash prize along with professional recognition and publication opportunities through ICAAF and its partner organizations.

Registration Opens: August 1, 2026

Registration and submission details will be announced soon. Please check back for updates as we approach the official launch of the competition.

About the Competition

The Persian garden is one of the world's most influential landscape traditions, recognized for its harmonious integration of nature, water, geometry, architecture, and human experience.

The Persian Garden Suite competition seeks innovative design proposals that reinterpret these timeless principles for contemporary Toronto.

Rather than reproducing historical forms, participants are encouraged to explore new architectural and landscape expressions that reflect sustainability, cultural diversity, accessibility, and community engagement.

Participants are invited to design:

A Contemporary Persian-Inspired Garden Pavilion

The proposal should:

Draw inspiration from Persian garden principles
Create meaningful connections between architecture and landscape
Integrate water, light, shade, and natural elements
Encourage gathering, reflection, and cultural exchange
Respond to Toronto's climate and urban context
Demonstrate innovation and sustainability

Competition Objectives

The competition aims to:

Promote excellence in architectural and landscape design
Celebrate Persian cultural heritage
Foster intercultural dialogue
Encourage innovative and sustainable design solutions
Support emerging and established designers
Create new opportunities for international collaboration

Awards

1st Prize: $1,500 CAD + Official Certificate of Merit + Extensive publication across ICAAF media and networks.
2nd Prize: $700 CAD + Official Certificate of Merit + Extensive publication across ICAAF media and networks.
3rd Prize: $300 CAD + Official Certificate of Merit + Extensive publication across ICAAF media and networks.
4th to 7th Places: Honorable Mentions from the jury panel and a certificate of recognition.

Eligibility

The competition is open to Canadian and international professionals and students:

Architects
Landscape Architects
Urban Designers
Interior Designers
Artists
Designers
Multidisciplinary Teams

Jury

The jury will consist of members of the ICAAF Board of Trustees and invited experts from the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, design, and the arts.