Efforts to restore Liepaja as a resort city have been revived in the new millennium. The wide beaches here attract visitors seeking recreation in the waterside cafés and bars, and nature lovers seeking peace on the coast. The unique natural healing resources available here call for the development of a new resort and health tourism amenities.

Recently in Liepaja, a series of excavations accessed underground thermal springs with high mineral and salt concentrated waters. These naturally formed springs are very rare and in high demand.  The thermal waters’ high concentrations of minerals and salt can be used to improve overall wellness. The health benefits of such springs are well documented and can be used as medicinal treatment to target and treat specific diseases. In order to provide continued use to both locals and tourists with the benefits of the natural springs, careful management of the resource is required.

As the second competition in a design series focused on Liepaja Seaside Park - a historically exclusive retreat area in Liepaja, Latvia we ask you to present the vision for the building complex which would allow locals and tourists to enjoy the natural benefits of the fresh seaside air and thermal water, while providing high-quality spa and recreational services throughout the entire year. The proposal should trigger development in the area and propel Liepaja’s rebirth as a regional tourist attraction.

Please find more information in the competition brief available for download.

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Jury:
Competition jury consists of two jury committees:
Core jury committee:
Uldis Sesks, Liepaja City Mayor, Latvia
Jurijs Hadarovics, Liepaja City Deputy Chairman, Latvia
Indulis Kalns, Liepaja City Head Architect, Latvia
Krists Karklins, lecturer, School of Architecture, Wentworth Institute of Technology, USA

Consultative jury committee:
Allison Schwartz, MA Architects, USA
Audrey McKee, Renzo Piano, France
Gemawang Swaribathoro, OMA, Hong Kong
Simon McGown, Morphosis Architects, USA
John Simons, KPF, USA
*and more

Late Registration: MAY 8 - JUN 12, 2014

Closing date for registration: JUN 12, 2014 (11.59pm GMT)

Closing date for submission: JUL 10, 2014 (11.59pm GMT)

Announcement of the winners: AUG 18, 2014

Exhibition in Liepaja City: SEP 11, 2014

Fees:

Early Registration: US$ 100

Standard Registration: US$ 120

Late Registration: US$ 140