The Howard Waterfall Retreat Competition invites architects and designers from around the world to reimagine a multi-generational family retreat that embraces the extraordinary natural and historical context of Howard Falls in Northwestern Pennsylvania, USA. This competition is a unique opportunity to create a timeless design that honors the rich heritage of the Howard Family while looking forward to the future.
Participants are tasked with designing a new structure that harmonizes with the site's natural beauty and historical significance. The design should integrate the preserved southern portion of the original summer cottage, built in the early 1900s, as a symbolic and functional element. The project must provide shared spaces for family gatherings, private accommodations, and thoughtful connections between the built environment and the surrounding landscape.
The submissions should deliver a versatile, sustainable, and forward-thinking architectural proposal. Designs must reflect a strong commitment to sustainability, with features like green roofs, energy-efficient systems, and sustainable materials. Proposals should also demonstrate a clear understanding of the site's constraints, including floodplain setbacks, elevation changes, and the need to preserve local biodiversity.
