Iceland Ski Snow Cabin competition Sustainability Award winner - Roberta Maria Vasnic

 We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Sustainability Award winner of our "Iceland Ski Snow Cabin" competition – Roberta Maria Vasnic from United Kingdom!

Void Studios Team from United Kingdom

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.

Void Studios, established in 2022, integrates rigorous research in regenerative architecture inspired by indigenous wisdom, into architectural discourse and practice. Located across the south-west and north-east of the UK, the studio operates under the guidance of two directors and a diverse group of associates spanning both local and international spheres.

Roberta Vasnic, acclaimed for her decade-spanning expertise in regenerative design, leads the research studio. Her work, celebrated with numerous awards, centres on embedding indigenous knowledge within architectural solutions, advocating for environmental justice and indigenous rights. Guided by holistic design principles, Roberta emphasizes ecological, cultural, and social dimensions, fostering resilience and community cohesion through architecture as a transformative force.

Leading the architecture studio is Ian Sanders, with over three decades of practice experience and renowned for his award-winning projects across residential, commercial, media, and leisure sectors. Beyond architecture, Ian directs Void Studios' creative media branch, producing films, graphics, and media that enrich the studio's interdisciplinary approach.

These collaborative accomplishments yield culturally astute, socially responsive, and environmentally sensitive proposals, addressing challenges both locally and globally. Void Studios thrives on synergies between rigorous research and innovative architectural practice, advocating for regenerative design solutions that resonate deeply with communities and environments alike.

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?

Void Studios is currently engaged in large-scale masterplanning projects across the south-western UK. These projects integrate diverse functionalities, weaving together residential, offices, recreational spaces, and educational facilities within mixed-use communities.

Moreover, our portfolio extends globally, capturing a spectrum of mixed-tenure residential developments in both local and international arenas. These include waterside residences, ranging in scale and value from £4m to £45m, each crafted with a commitment to sustainable living and architectural excellence.

Through our research branch, we have forged international partnerships. Our collaboration with the Sapara Nation Community in the Ecuadorian Amazon exemplifies our dedication to cultural and environmental conservation. Nestled within an existing eco-village amidst the Amazonian wilderness, this project promises to foster resilience and cultural rejuvenation.

Similarly, across the Atlantic, we are honoured to undertake the design for a holistic farm and eco-tourism project in Pennsylvania, USA. Rooted in sustainable permaculture farming practices, this project integrates short-stay residences and communal kitchen facilities. Here, guests will immerse themselves in the cyclical journey of food, from cultivation to table, fostering an understanding of healthy ecosystems and sustainable living practices. Furthermore, we recently completed the meticulous refurbishment of a historic listed fish market in the south-west of the UK, repurposed into a vibrant hub of retail and leisure activities. Each project embodies our commitment to innovative design, resilience, and cultural resonance.

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

Architecture evolved from creating shelters from natural elements, to symbolising human achievement. Now, amidst climate change, we recognise a pressing need to reframe the role of architecture in society as a powerful tool that enables us to foster symbiosis between all life forms, ensuring future generations thrive within a holistic, responsible, and regenerative eco-system.

To us, it is a dynamic and ever-changing legacy, reflecting our consciousness and beliefs as a society. It holds the transformative power to instigate meaningful change, harnessing harmonious relationships with the environment, and promote social equity. In the current climatic context, architects bear the responsibility of healing the disconnect between the built and natural worlds.

Embracing this challenge, we strive to create spaces that are not only functional and beautiful but also resilient and respectful to the often-delicate ecosystems they inhabit. With careful consideration to local context, we honour each project site by allowing the proposal to emerge from their setting. This enables us to root projects holistically, merging spatial, cultural and ecological characteristics that support a symbiotic relationship between the built and natural worlds.

Consequently, as climate change redefines our world, the architect's role evolves beyond traditional boundaries. In these innovative times, architects have a great responsibility in designing interdependent life systems where buildings are the catalyst for change. We must harness this potential, championing designs that nurture and sustain all forms of life, ensuring a legacy of balance, equity and positivity for future generations.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We have participated in a number of architectural competitions during the last two years. We believe they are an excellent way to challenge our skills and provide a vehicle to highlight our architectural approach to the issues that we have discussed above. 

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

To any practice or individuals that are questioning the benefits of entering architectural competitions, we reiterate the reasons why we have entered several since we formed the practice. They are a method of demonstrating your skills and design approach to potential clients.