Persian Garden Suite

International Architectural Design Competition 2026–2027

Designing a Contemporary Persian-Inspired Garden Pavilion for Toronto

The Persian Garden Suite International Architectural Design Competition invites architects and artists from around the world to explore contemporary interpretations of the Persian garden through architecture, landscape, culture, and public space.

Organized by the Iranian Canadian Architects & Artists Forum (ICAAF) in collaboration with Rahshahr Canada, Urbanscape Architects, and Rahshahr International Group, the competition welcomes architects, landscape architects, urban designers and artists to envision an innovative garden pavilion for Toronto.

Participants are encouraged to reinterpret the timeless principles of the Persian garden like harmony, geometry, water, nature, and cultural memory within a contemporary urban context. Proposals should celebrate Persian heritage while creating an inclusive and inspiring public space that responds to the social, environmental, and cultural needs of today's city.

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

Registration Opens: August 1, 2026

Applying from inside Iran? Click Here

DOWNLOAD THE GUIDLINE HERE:

P.G.S.C GUILDLINE . 2026.pdf

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 Artists

Submission Format

Applicants may participate as:

Individual applicants
Collaborative teams (up to 3 members )

Multidisciplinary collaborations are encouraged. Each team must designate one representative as the primary contact.

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.