Concrete Pavilion competition 1st Prize winners - Hamid Karimiantakbolagh, Saber Karamzadeh, Leila Nikjoosafa and Amirmohammad Taheri

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 1st Prize winners of our Concrete Pavilion competition – Hamid Karimiantakbolagh, Saber Karamzadeh, Leila Nikjoosafa and Amirmohammad Taheri from Austria!

1st Prize winners from Austria

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.

Our team was formed in 2025 in Tehran, the capital of Iran, through the collaboration of three members: Saber Karamzadeh, who holds a Bachelor’s degree in Architecture and a Master’s degree in Architectural Studies; Leila Nikjoo Safa, a Bachelor’s graduate in Architecture; and Amirmohammad Taheri, also a Bachelor’s graduate in Architecture. Since our formation, we have been actively involved in various architectural projects, working across both the design and execution phases, as well as participating in architectural competitions. Our base of operation is in Iran. However, we collaborate on a project-based basis with different professionals when needed, including Mr. Hamid, who is the leader of this competition.

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 team has been involved in a variety of architectural projects across different scales, with a primary focus on small- to medium-scale projects. Our experience includes residential, commercial, and mixed-use developments, and we have participated in both the design and construction phases of these projects. In addition to built work, we have been actively engaged in architectural competitions, which have allowed us to explore concept-driven, experimental, and context-responsive design approaches. These competitions have played an important role in shaping our collaborative design process and expanding our architectural perspective. Several of our projects have been carried out through project-based collaborations with external professionals, enabling us to adapt to diverse project requirements and benefit from interdisciplinary input. Overall, these experiences have strengthened our capabilities in concept design, spatial development, and translating architectural ideas into buildable solutions across various project scales.

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

To us, architecture is the thoughtful intersection of space, culture, and everyday life. It is not only about creating physical structures, but about shaping experiences, relationships, and ways of living. Architecture has the power to respond to its context, reflect social values, and influence how people interact with their environment. In our society, the role of the architect extends beyond design and construction. Architects act as mediators between people, place, and resources, translating social, cultural, environmental, and economic needs into meaningful spatial solutions. Especially in rapidly changing urban contexts, architects have a responsibility to design spaces that are inclusive, sustainable, and sensitive to local identity. We believe architects should critically observe their surroundings, question existing conditions, and propose alternatives that improve the quality of life. Through responsible design, architects can contribute to social awareness, environmental balance, and the creation of spaces that support both individual and collective well-being.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We participate in architecture competitions because they provide a critical platform for experimentation, learning, and dialogue. Competitions allow us to explore ideas beyond the limitations of conventional practice, question established norms, and test innovative design approaches. They also encourage collaborative thinking and push us to clearly articulate concepts within the specific constraints of time, site, and program. Through this process, we strengthen our ability to respond creatively and responsibly to complex architectural challenges. Most importantly, competitions offer an opportunity to engage with the broader architectural discourse, receive critical feedback, and contribute ideas that address social, cultural, and spatial issues. For us, they are not only a means of professional growth but also a way to refine our architectural position and design methodology.

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

For individuals who are unsure about participating in architecture competitions, my advice is to see competitions as opportunities rather than obligations. They provide a unique space to experiment with ideas, expand skills, and challenge conventional thinking without the immediate constraints of real-world projects. Even if the outcome does not lead to winning, the process itself offers valuable learning experiences, including conceptual development, visualization, time management, and collaboration. Competitions also help individuals clarify their design interests, test new approaches, and gain exposure within the architectural community. Ultimately, participation depends on one’s willingness to take creative risks and dedicate time to focused exploration. For those motivated by growth, curiosity, and engaging in architectural discourse, competitions are almost always worth the effort.