ArchiNova

Exterior Wall Elevation Challenge

Theme

Slim tiles as Identity – Exterior Wall Elevation Design

Target Group

Interior Design Students (B.Des, Diploma, or Equivalent)

Aim / Objective

The objective of this challenge is to design a visually impactful and innovative exterior wall elevation using Slim tile surfaces as the primary material. The participants must focus on material expression, façade articulation, and architectural identity, while ensuring the design is structurally practical and contextually adaptable.

Time Duration

Total Time: 2 Hours

Format

On-spot digital design exercise

Design Dimensions

Participants will work on a façade of 8 m (length) × 13 m (height). The elevation must respect these proportions while allowing freedom for creative interpretation.

Deliverables (to be submitted within the given time frame)

• Elevation Drawing (software-based) – clearly showing proportions, surface articulation, and detailing
• Minimum 1 Rendered 3D View – showcasing the final material application and façade impact
• Concept Note (approx. 50 words) – describing the design intent, material use, and feasibility

Prerequisite

Hardware

Participants must bring their own laptop, fully charged and capable of running design and rendering software smoothly.

Software

Participants must have pre-installed and functional versions of:

• SketchUp – for 3D modeling and elevation articulation
• AutoCAD – for precise drafting and elevation drawings
• Rendering Software – any of the participant’s choice (e.g., V-Ray, Lumion, Enscape), but must be capable of producing high-quality rendered views within the time limit

File Management

Participants should ensure they have access to the necessary plugins, libraries, and texture packs for slim tile surfaces. Backup options (cloud or USB) are recommended.

Digital Readiness

Internet access is not guaranteed; participants must be prepared to work offline. All reference materials should be downloaded in advance.

Expected Outcome

At the end of 2 hours, participants should present a unique and innovative façade design for a 8m × 13m elevation, highlighting the versatility of slim tile, balancing aesthetic appeal, functional feasibility, and architectural identity.

Final submission

All final deliverables must be uploaded to the designated Google Drive link provided at the start of the competition, strictly within the allotted time frame.

Venue Instructions

• Teams must report 30 minutes before the scheduled time.
• No entry will be allowed 10 minutes after the start of the event.
• Use of mobile phones is not allowed during the event.

Evaluation Criteria

• Creativity & Originality (25%) – Freshness of design idea and façade articulation
• Material Expression (25%) – Innovative use of slim tile in design, texture, and detailing
• Architectural Identity (20%) – Façade impact, cultural/contextual relevance, and character
• Feasibility & Practicality (15%) – Structural logic, functional adaptability
• Presentation & Communication (15%) – Clarity of drawings, render quality, and concise concept note

Disqualification Criteria

Incomplete Setup

• Failure to bring a functioning laptop or required software installed and ready to use.

Non-compliance with Format

• Submit hand-drawn sketches or non-digital outputs instead of software-based elevation drawings.

Late Submission

• Deliverables not submitted within the 2-hour time frame.

Missing Deliverables

• Absence of any of the three required components: elevation drawing, rendered view, or concept note.

Plagiarism

• Use of pre-existing designs or copied content from online sources without original interpretation.

Software Malfunction Excuses

• Inability to complete the task due to software crashes or lack of familiarity will not be entertained.

Misuse of Materials

• Use of materials other than slim tile as the primary façade surface may lead to disqualification.