Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2024 competition Honorable mention winner in the Medium Scale category - Andreas Giovanos

We’d like to take this opportunity to introduce the Honorable Mention winner in the Medium Scale category of our "Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2024" competition – Andreas Giovanos from Greece!

Andreas Giovanos with Team

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

Andreas Giovanos co-founded GNB Architects alongside Spyros Boukas and Nikolaos Paouris in 2014 in Athens, Greece. Since then, GNB Architects has grown into a dynamic team of 35 professionals, including experienced architects, civil engineers, and mechanical engineers. While rooted in Athens and renowned for our expertise in Cycladic architecture, our work spans diverse locations and contexts. We believe in creating architecture that arises from a deep understanding of the unique characteristics of each place. Our approach combines aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability, delivering innovative designs that resonate on a global scale.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

Over the past decade, gnb architects have undertaken a wide range of projects, including hotel complexes, private residences, urban apartments, and landscape designs. Some of our most notable works besides Ribbon include the award winning  Mykonos Flow and Curved line in Mykonos, Cubespace in Lemnos, the acclaimed Living the Oblique in Syros and Slope in Trikala, Peloponnese. We focus on creating tailored architectural experiences, respecting the uniqueness of each project, and striving for innovation while remaining rooted in sustainable practices.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

Architecture is more than building structures; it is about creating experiences that harmonize with human needs and the environment. For us, architecture represents a dialogue between the past, present, and future, reflecting cultural values while embracing innovation. The role of an architect is pivotal in shaping not only physical spaces but also the societal fabric, addressing environmental challenges, and inspiring communities to engage with their surroundings meaningfully.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We view architecture competitions as a platform to push creative boundaries, explore bold ideas, and challenge conventional thinking. Competitions allow us to collaborate as a team, experiment with innovative concepts, and gain exposure to an international audience. They are also an opportunity to engage with the architectural community and inspire others through our work.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

Competitions are an invaluable experience, providing an opportunity to refine your skills, expand your network, and gain recognition. If you’re unsure, start with smaller-scale competitions to build confidence and familiarize yourself with the process. Focus on the learning experience rather than solely on the outcome, as the journey of exploration and creativity will significantly benefit your professional growth.