Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2024 competition Student Award winner in the Small Scale category - Trier University of Applied Sciences

We’d like to take this opportunity to introduce the Student Award winner in the Small Scale category of our "Buildner's Unbuilt Award 2024" competition –  Paul Schuchmann, Eric Schmitz, Sophie Jule Düngenheim and Lara Silvia Hofbauer from Germany!

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.

We are four students from Trier University of Applied Sciences who have been collaborating on projects for several years. In January 2025, we will complete our bachelor's degree.

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?

Throughout our studies, we have worked on a wide range of projects, from the subsequent use of a shopping center to our current project, "Straw for Four”. We enjoy gaining experiences in various fields and learning from them.

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

Over the past three years of our studies, we have learned about the impact that the profession of architecture can have on society. The built environment directly influences our well-being and shapes our daily lives. The simplest rooms are often the most challenging to design and should always be created with careful consideration of people and their surroundings. As part of the construction sector, which is responsible for a significant proportion of carbon dioxide emissions, we also have a responsibility to use remaining materials wisely for future generations.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architectural competitions provide an excellent opportunity to gain knowledge in new fields, such as building with straw, while also offering inspiration and valuable experience. They allow participants to explore a variety of design tasks aligned with their personal interests, beyond the scope of university projects. Additionally, they provide a chance to work independently and compete with participants from around the world.

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

Reviewing the results of an architectural competition in which you have participated always provides valuable insight into how others have approached the same task and addressed the challenges that arise. The best advice is to simply go for it and use the opportunity to gain both inspiration and experience. It is also a great chance to showcase your work and draw attention to yourself.