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

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 – Catalin Sandru from United Kingdom!

Catalin Sandru

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.

Founded in 2018, Vizzoor is a small studio based in London, led by Catalin Sandru, the founder, and Ana Barbu, as partner. CS works as a CGI artist in an architectural office, while AB specializes in interior design.

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?

Our work is focused on two main areas: architectural visualizations and digital art. The architectural visualizations cover small to medium-scale projects, mostly in residential, commercial, and cultural sectors.

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

To me, architecture is about creating spaces that solve problems while telling a story. It’s not just about how things look, but how they work, how they feel, and how they bring people together. The architect’s role is a huge responsibility because what we design shapes the way people live, interact, and experience the world. Every choice we make—materials, layouts, even small details can have a lasting impact on society. It’s about building not just for today, but for the future, with care and attention.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I participate in architecture competitions because they spark curiosity and allow me to explore ideas I’m passionate about. It’s a chance to start with a blank canvas and see where a concept can lead, whether it’s pushing creative boundaries or finding unexpected solutions. Competitions challenge me to grow—refining my process, solving problems, and approaching design from fresh perspectives. At the same time, they let me create work that feels personal and meaningful, adding to my experience and vision as an architect.

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

Approach an architectural competition with curiosity and an open mind. Use it as an opportunity to explore ideas you care about and challenge yourself to think differently. Don’t focus too much on winning—instead, see it as a chance to experiment, grow, and refine your process as a designer. Be bold, but also thoughtful. Pay attention to the brief, as even constraints can spark creative solutions. And most importantly, enjoy the process—competitions are a rare chance to design something that reflects your vision and passion without limits.