The latest edition of the OMÉN-2025 design competition concluded with a standout achievement: the Gábor Bártfai‑designed Green Campus at Corvinus University in Budapest secured third place among eight international entries. The award marks a milestone for the university’s commitment to sustainable architecture and highlights the rigorous evaluation framework that guided the judges’ decision.
Overview of the OMÉN‑2025 Design Competition
The OMÉN competition is a biennial event that gathers architects and design students from across Europe to propose forward‑thinking solutions for public and private facilities. The 2025 cycle attracted eight submissions, including a city centre project in Ljubljana and a diagnostic centre in Hungary, but Corvinus University’s entry stood out for its blend of aesthetic innovation and environmental responsibility.
Scoring System and Evaluation Criteria
The judges applied a weighted scoring system that balanced originality, technical feasibility, and sustainability. Each category accounted for a specific percentage of the final score:
- Building uniqueness, size, prestige – 20%
- Originality of design solutions and sustainability implementation – 30%
- Complexity and suitability of engineering systems – 30%
- Special solutions due to building configuration (e.g., heritage reconstruction) – 5%
- Quality of submission materials and clarity – 5%
- Presentation quality – 10%
Adhering to this framework, the Corvinus Green Campus achieved a balanced score that rewarded both conceptual strength and practical execution.
Entry Submissions and Key Winners
While the competition showcased a variety of projects, the top three placements were:
- First – EMONIKA City Center, designer Mónika Malústyik, Ljubljana, Slovenia.
- Second – ONKO Diagnostic Center, designer Bernát Nagy, Hungary.
- Third – Corvinus Green Campus, designer Gábor Bártfai, Budapest.
These results illustrate the international reach of the competition and the high bar set for architectural excellence.
Highlights of the Corvinus Green Campus Design
The Green Campus is a campus‑wide redevelopment that combines a modern academic hub with eco‑efficient infrastructure. Its key features include:
- Solar‑powered façades that supply a portion of the building’s electricity needs.
- Rainwater harvesting systems integrated into the landscape plan.
- Composite structural elements that reduce material usage while retaining load capacity.
- Green corridors that enhance biodiversity within the campus environment.
The design also addresses acoustic comfort and daylight optimization, making the space conducive to study and research.
Architectural Features and Sustainability Impact
Bártfai’s proposal demonstrates a strong grasp of circular design principles. The choice to place photovoltaic cells on the roof and the integration of a multi‑layered shading system reduce peak solar heat gain and lower energy consumption. By incorporating native plant species into the landscaping, the campus reduces irrigation demands and supports local pollinators.
Engineering Innovations
The engineering plan includes a modular HVAC system that can adapt to changing occupancy levels. This flexibility, combined with advanced building‑management software, allows for real‑time monitoring of environmental parameters and efficiency metrics. The project’s technical viability earned it full marks in the third scoring category.
Implications for Students and Design Professionals
The recognition of the Green Campus design serves multiple audiences. For prospective students, it is a tangible example of how Corvinus University supports innovative, sustainable projects. For design practitioners, it offers insights into how to balance creative ambitions with strict evaluation criteria.
Learning Opportunities at Corvinus University
Corvinus offers several programs that align with the values showcased in the competition:
- Bachelor of Architecture – focuses on sustainable design methods.
- Master of Sustainable Design – deepens knowledge in environmental building technologies.
- Interdisciplinary courses in Engineering and Project Management to strengthen technical feasibility.
Enrollment for the upcoming academic year can begin by visiting the application portal and initiating the application process.
Preparing for Design Competitions – Tips and Best Practices
The scoring rubric above provides a blueprint for successful submissions:
- Showcase originality. A fresh concept will capture the judges’ attention.
- Integrate sustainability early. Embed green strategies into every design element rather than as add‑ons.
- Detail engineering solutions. Clear, realistic technical plans reduce uncertainty.
- Polish presentation. Visual clarity and professional layout can tip the balance.
- Leverage interdisciplinary knowledge. Collaboration with engineers, ecologists, and business specialists enriches the proposal.
For those interested in detailed guidelines, explore the university’s resources on design competitions available at Design Elements.
How to Apply to Corvinus University – Next Steps
Student candidates can prepare by reviewing the application requirements and gathering necessary documents:
- Academic transcripts and portfolios.
- Proof of language proficiency (Hungarian or English, depending on program).
- Statement of intent outlining career goals.
The admissions office can be reached through the university’s contact page or by calling +36 1 482 5000.
Applicants who wish to learn more about the admissions timeline can schedule a free consultation by using the session booking portal.
Further Resources and Engagement
Corvinus University maintains a robust online presence for prospective students and professionals alike. The news section offers updates on recent projects, while the research centres showcase cutting‑edge studies in sustainability.
For those planning a visit, the campus’s campus guide provides practical information on tours and accommodation.
We encourage you to share your thoughts on this landmark achievement in the comments below or reach out to the university’s admissions team for any queries.
