Architecture Competition Iceland Black Lava Fields Visitor Center Honorable mention - Anna Laura Hölz and Stefan Pflips

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the winners of the Honorable mention of our “Iceland Black Lava Fields Visitor Center” competition - Anna Laura Hölz and Stefan Pflips from Germany!

Anna Laura Hölz and Stefan Pflips from Germany

We, Anna Laura Hölz and Stefan Pflips, studied architecture at the MSA – Münster School of Architecture and gratuated in 2018. During our studies we worked together several times on different projects.

Currently both of us are working in architecture offices in the Rhineland in Germany. The Black Lava Fields Visitor Center competition was a great opportunity to work as a team again.

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 company/ individuals have been involved?

In the past we had the chance to work in different fields. No matter if it was urban planning or building within existing structures, we focused on an sensitive approach.

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

In our opinion, good architecture increases the quality of life. If urban planning and architecture get in touch with local conditions it gives people identity. A human being needs culture and a sense of belonging. Even though it cannot be measured, you feel it. Therefore, the architect has to preserve high quality, despite low costs being demanded. The architect has to be convincing.

Why do you participate in architecture vision competitions?

The focus was on being creative together again. A small task which felt refreshing outside of daily jobs.

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

If an architecture vision competition appeals to someone because of the task, the topic or the possibility to realise it, feel free to participate. The chance to set your own creativity free is good practice in one way, and good for your well-being in the other. Irrespective of whether you will be mentioned or the project will be built, you can grow with every challenge and creative experience.