Hospice - Home for the Terminally ill #5 competition Student Prize winner - Wroclaw University of Science and Technology

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Student Prize winner of our Hospice - Home for the Terminally ill #5 competition – Paulina Weronika Piekarz from Poland!

Paulina Weronika Piekarz

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.

I am a master's student at the Faculty of Architecture of the Wrocław University of Science and Technology. My academic path focuses on finding a balance between functionality and aesthetics that responds to contemporary climate and social challenges. On a daily basis, I develop my professional experience, participating in design processes at various stages – from concept to technical development. I also broadened my horizons during the Erasmus+ program in Greece, which allowed me to gain new perspectives and inspirations in my approach to architecture. My interests focus primarily on the design of public utility facilities, with particular emphasis on the functionality of space and the way architecture affects the everyday experience of its users. I like to take up challenges and get involved in projects that require a creative approach and a comprehensive view of space.

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?

During my studies, I took part in a variety of projects from residential buildings to public buildings. I like to create diverse concepts and gain experience in designing both large and intimate spaces. My passion is creating architecture that responds to demographic and environmental challenges, as well as designing social spaces. I am particularly fascinated by the adaptation of former industrial facilities or railway depots into modern service spaces, taking full advantage of the potential of disused plots and existing buildings.

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

It is a dialogue between a person and the environment. The role of an architect in today's society is to be a "translator" of social needs into the language of form. Architecture is a field that has a real impact on the quality of life of people and the way cities function. The role of an architect is not only to design aesthetic buildings, but above all to create functional spaces that are accessible and respond to the needs of users.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I treat architectural competitions as an opportunity to develop creativity and confront my ideas with other participants. They allow you to experiment with design solutions that often go beyond standard design practice. It is also an opportunity to gain experience and present one's own approach to architecture.

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

Participation in architectural competitions is a very valuable form of design development. It allows you to test your skills, develops creative thinking and gives you the opportunity to work on concepts that often go beyond the standard design framework. The competitions allow for greater freedom in the search for spatial solutions and experimentation with architectural ideas, which is a valuable experience in the process of shaping one's own approach to design.