Galapagos Retreat: Challenge to develop a sustainable eco-hotel in the Galapagos

Galapagos Retreat: Challenge to develop a sustainable eco-hotel in the Galapagos

Puerto Ayora: The Heart of the Galapagos Islands, Ecuador

The Galapagos Islands, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, are known for their fragile ecosystems, endemic species, and their role in Charles Darwin’s theory of evolution. However, increasing tourism and urban expansion threaten this delicate balance. As visitor numbers rise and infrastructure demands grow, the islands face significant challenges in preserving their unique biodiversity while accommodating the needs of both locals and tourists. Unregulated construction, resource depletion, and habitat disruption have intensified concerns over sustainable development in this ecologically sensitive region.

The Challenge is to develop a sustainable eco-hotel in the Galapagos, the design must balance conservation, innovation, and community engagement. In Puerto Ayora’s fragile ecosystem, it should prioritize adaptive reuse, low-impact methods, and alignment with local ecological and cultural values.

Sustainability & Environment : Repurpose unfinished buildings using local materials (volcanic rock, bamboo) and passive design (natural ventilation, solar shading). Integrate renewable energy (solar panels, rainwater harvesting) and sustainable waste systems (composting, greywater recycling).
Architecture & Structure : Ensure modular, flexible designs for future expansion with lightweight constructionand climate-responsive facades, blending with the Galapagos landscape.
Tourism & Community : Promote eco-tourism, local involvement, and shared public spaces, while encouraging sustainable mobility (bike paths, electric transport.
Keywords:

Addition

Reuse

Identity

Detail

Adaptability

Our Jury
Know more about our jury

Ilse Martinez
Lighting Designer at Foster + Partners

Lucia Oberfrancová
Research assistent & teacher at Hochschule Wismar

Liam Hayward-Mills
Architectural project manager & designer

Ruben Jodar
Professor at Hochschule wismar

Mariam Korachy
Founder of Mariam Korachy Architects

Hartwig Duensing
Founder of Duensing Architekten