Architecture Competition Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop Honorable mention – Jaime Argudín Fraile, Miguel Bermejo Morán and Teresa Cabezas Carreño

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our Honorable mention winners for our "Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop" competition – Jaime Argudín Fraile, Miguel Bermejo Morán and Teresa Cabezas Carreño from Spain!

Honorable mention winners from Spain

This team consists of three young architects that joined paths and developed a friendship while  studying at the School of Architecture of Universidad de Valladolid, Spain. Their similar vision and common approach to design and architecture led them to participate in several competitions to put their ideas into practice. They currently combine  these sporadic  collaborations while starting their careers as architects.

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 our student years, we studied and learned architecture and all its scales and branches. We developed a common interest in the relationship between sensible architectures and the landscape. That is the reason that led us to participate in competitions that encourage you to really think about the impact and meaning that an intervention is going to have on its surroundings.

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

The idea of architecture goes beyond the sense of designing buildings. It is a tool to sculpt the world we live in. We believe our role as architects is to identify the flaws and opportunities in our surroundings so we can improve them.  This means that it is our responsibility as architects to keep our eyes and   mind   open,   so   we   can   find   innovative   solutions   to   face   everyday challenges.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We love challenging ourselves, especially when facing original, creative, and out-of-the-box proposals. Taking part in architecture competitions is not only a great chance to improve your skills and show the world your ideas, but it is also a smart move career-wise, as it can be the first step when trying to make a name for yourself in the industry.

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

We believe architecture competitions are a great opportunity for architects to help their professional careers. Even when your project is not selected as a winner proposal, the experience helps to improve your skills and encourages teamwork and time management. It is also a great way to provide your professional portfolio with actual material to display.