Iceland Beer Spa Honorable mention winner - Lorenzo Gallo

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our "Iceland Beer Spa" competition – Lorenzo Gallo from Italy!

Lorenzo Gallo

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 Lorenzo Gallo, from Rome, I graduated from the Faculty of Architecture in Rome in 2014, during my studies I worked as a university assistant in the design course for 3 years. After graduation I collaborated with various professional firms and in 2017 I started freelancing and created my own firm.

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?

My main activity is interior renovation; I work mainly in Rome and i have designed many apartments; when I have the chance I like to design single houses or more complex buildings. I work mainly alone and sometimes collaborating with other architects.

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

Architecture is a discipline halfway between art and science, where free artistic expression must deal with reality: the laws of physics, building regulations, construction techniques, the client's wishes, the budget. The architect is therefore a hybrid figure, an artist who keeps his feet on the ground, who must find an answer to many technical and functional aspects of design, at the same time transferring his sensitivity and personality to the buildings to give them a soul and make them alive. The role of the architect is to improve the quality of life of people, both in private and public life, not only in practical and functional aspects but must also contribute to an improvement in spiritual and mental well-being. The architect must understand and be able to adapt to the needs of man's life which are constantly changing and must suggest new solutions for the future, he must innovate while respecting traditions and culture, the spirit of the places and the environment.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I participate in architecture competitions to immerse myself in projects that deviate from the ordinary, encounter new and stimulating design challenges, and test my abilities, all while having the opportunity to witness my projects come to fruition.

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

The architecture competition is an opportunity for professional growth, it allows you to gain experience and acquire new skills, and constitutes a showcase to show others your vision of architecture.