Denver Single-Stair Housing Challenge competition Honorable mention winners - Ali Ahmadi, Alireza Nazeri and Farnoosh Baratloo

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winners of our "Denver Single-Stair Housing Challenge" competition – Ali Ahmadi, Alireza Nazeri and Farnoosh Baratloo from Italy!

Ali Ahmadi, Alireza Nazeri and Farnoosh Baratloo

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 a team of three professionals, each based in a different country, bringing diverse expertise in architecture, sustainability,interior design and landscape architecture. With M.Sc degrees in our respective fields, we work full-time at leading firms while dedicating our spare time to collaborating on this competition, driven by our shared passion for innovative 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?

Each of us has been involved in a diverse range of projects, from large-scale landscape and architectural designs to intricate detail work, high-quality representations, and sustainability research. Our combined experience spans multiple scales and disciplines, enriching our collaborative approach to design.

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

For us, architecture is shaped by context, culture, and people. Every project is unique, defined by its location and the stories it holds. Rather than adhering to a fixed approach or rigid definition, we let each site inspire its own architectural expression, allowing design to evolve naturally from place to place.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We participate in architecture competitions because they push the boundaries of creativity and innovation, allowing us to explore ideas beyond the constraints of everyday practice. They provide a platform for experimentation, refinement of our design philosophy, and the challenge of competing alongside other talented professionals. Competitions also offer the opportunity to create meaningful spaces that address real-world issues, from sustainability to cultural identity. Ultimately, they fuel our passion for architecture, helping us grow as designers while working on projects with the potential to leave a lasting impact.

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

We would encourage them to focus on what they want to gain from the experience. Architecture competitions are not just about winning—they push creative boundaries, refine our design approach, and allow us to explore ideas free from everyday constraints. They challenge us to think critically, improve our skills, and gain exposure to new perspectives. If they are hesitant, we’d suggest starting with a competition that excites them, one that aligns with their interests or offers a chance to experiment. Collaborating with a team can also make the process more enjoyable and insightful. Ultimately, competitions are an opportunity for growth. Even if we don’t win, the experience, the learning, and the portfolio pieces we create can open doors in unexpected ways. So, if the idea excites them even a little, we’d say go for it—there’s always something valuable to gain.