Organizer Information

VARES is a residency program based in Valga, Estonia, dedicated to spatial practices, architecture, and world-building. The program encourages experimental, hands-on approaches to architecture, emphasizing material care, adaptive reuse, and alternative construction methods. VARES provides residents with a collaborative environment, combining traditional techniques and new technologies, while fostering reflection on the built environment, sustainability, and social engagement.

Title & Description

VARES Residency for Architects & Spatial Practitioners - Spring 2026
VARES invites architects, builders, students, writers, geographers, and other spatial practitioners to engage in a hands-on, exploratory residency in Valga, Estonia, from May 11 to June 28, 2026. Residents work with existing materials and spaces to experiment with inventive renovation, adaptive reuse, and speculative urban interventions, blending traditional craftsmanship with contemporary techniques. The program culminates in a public sharing weekend (June 27–28, 2026), where participants present projects, workshops, exhibitions, or publications reflecting their research, creative process, and engagement with the local context.

Categories

Architecture, Installation, Interdisciplinary Arts, Visual Arts, Research, Public Art

Eligibility

  • Open internationally.
  • Professionals, students, or independent researchers in architecture, spatial practices, or related fields.
  • Ukrainian architects and spatial practitioners are eligible for special stipends.
  • Individuals or small groups (preferably 1–2 people per project).
  • Applicants must commit to the full residency period and actively engage in the local context.

Program Benefits & Awards

  • Stipend: €30 per day for general residents; €3,000 for Ukrainian residents.
  • Travel Support: Based on distance.
  • Production Budget: Modest, determined by project needs.
  • Accommodation: Shared rooms/studios at VARES residency house.
  • Workspace & Tools: Access to a workshop with essential machines and reclaimed materials.
  • Mentorship & Guidance: Curatorial support from the VARES team.
  • Public Sharing: Opportunity to present work during the residency’s public weekend.

Application Fee

None

Application Requirements

  • CV (and portfolio if available, max 25 MB)
  • Statement of Interest / Motivation Letter / Activity Plan (max 10 MB, any format)
  • Submission via the official online application form only
  • Applications must demonstrate alignment with VARES residency themes

How to Apply?

Online Application

Key Dates

  • Application Deadline: 5 March 2026
  • Residency Start: 11 June 2026
  • Residency End: 28 July 2026
  • Public Sharing Weekend: 2026/06/27–28

Location

Valga, Estonia

Additional Details

  • Up to five residents per residency period.
  • Each resident typically has their own room/studio; group participants share space.
  • Emphasis on sustainable material use, local context, and hands-on experimentation.
  • Two special stipends are available for Ukrainian architects and spatial practitioners.

Website Link: https://vares.space/en/