INVITATION

The municipality of Elin Pelin is announcing an international architectural competition. It is looking for a new, contemporary look for the city center, renovation of public spaces, and creation of a modern, attractive, and comfortable living environment. The competition is open to participation and welcomes ideas from around the world.

Elin Pelin

Elin Pelin is a young but rapidly developing town in Bulgaria.

It bears the name of one of the most significant representatives of Bulgarian literature, a writer and poet who described the picturesque Bulgarian village and traditional life in Bulgaria.

The town is very close to the capital Sofia, but has its own character and identity, preferred for its peaceful life, far from the hustle and bustle of the big city.

Competition Scope

The project is divided into two parts – Concept design for Zone 1: City center area within the scope of the roundabout at Stoyan Mihaylovski Street and Sofia Street, along the entire length of Sofia Street to the square in front of the Church of “St. Nicholay Chudotvorets”, including the existing parking lot, Nezavisimost Square and along the pedestrian zone on Vitosha Boulevard to Hristo Botev Street, and Development for Zone 2: Surrounding area –  Standard for the elements of the urban environment and typical details

AWARDS

First Prize
10 000 euro
Second Prize
7 000 euro
Third Prize
3 000 euro

Two Honorary Mentions of 1 000 euro each.

The municipality of Elin Pelin will commission a technical and working design with an estimated value of €125,000 for design services, excluding VAT.

SCHEDULE

07.11.2025Official announcement of the competition
07.11.2025 – 09.02.2026Time for preparation of the overall concept and development of the project
30.01.2026Deadline for questions
04.02.2026Deadline for registration on the platform and submitting the documents
09.02.2026Deadline for submission of the projects
10-13.02.2026Preparation for judging of the competition materials
16.02.2026 – 16.03.2026Jury evaluation
24.03.2026Announcement of the competition results

GUIDELINES AND PRINCIPLES FOR DESIGN

SUSTAINABILITY AND ECOLOGICALITY

Use of sustainable materials, energy-efficient systems, and solutions that ensure durability and easy maintenance of the environment.

SOCIAL ACTIVITY AND INCLUSION

Creating spaces that encourage social interaction, cultural activities, and accessibility for all, including people with special needs.

AESTHETIC AND FUNCTIONAL HARMONY

Integration of buildings and pedestrian areas into a unified visual and functional whole with a clear visual identity.

SAFETY AND COMFORT

Ensuring good lighting, visibility, and safety, as well as improving the microclimate for a pleasant stay in all seasons.

MULTIFUNCTIONALITY AND VITALITY OF THE SPACE

Creating dynamic public areas suitable for various activities throughout the year – events, markets, celebrations, children’s activities, etc.


JURY

The competition projects will be evaluated by a panel of seven international jury members.

More information about the jury members coming soon.

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Elin Pelin Center – video 1
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Elin Pelin Center – video 2
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Elin Pelin Center – video 3
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Elin Pelin Center – video 4
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Elin Pelin Center – video 5
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Elin Pelin Center – video 6
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Elin Pelin Center – video 7
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Elin Pelin Center – video 8
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Elin Pelin Center – video 9
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Elin Pelin Center – video 10
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Elin Pelin Center - video 1
Elin Pelin Center - video 2
Elin Pelin Center - video 3
Elin Pelin Center - video 4
Elin Pelin Center - video 5
Elin Pelin Center - video 6
Elin Pelin Center - video 7
Elin Pelin Center - video 8
Elin Pelin Center - video 9
Elin Pelin Center - video 10
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