Kinderspace #3 competition Honorable mention winner - Aleksandra Lepetkina

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our Kinderspace #3 competition – Aleksandra Lepetkina from Germany!

Aleksandra Lepetkina

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 an architect based in Germany with a background in architectural design and a strong interest in computational and sustainable design strategies. My professional experience includes working on architectural projects of different scales, with a particular focus on concept development and early design stages. I am especially interested in how parametric tools and environmental analysis can inform architectural decisions and create more responsive and sustainable spaces.

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?

Throughout my career, I have focused on public and educational architecture of various scales. My work prioritizes the human experience, functional flexibility, and the use of natural materials to foster community interaction and well-being within the public realm.

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

For me, architecture is a tool to shape the relationship between people, environment, and space. Good architecture does more than provide shelter; it creates experiences, frames views, guides movement, and influences how people interact with their surroundings. At the same time, architecture carries a growing responsibility toward the environment. Today the role of the architect is not only to design beautiful spaces but also to create intelligent systems that respond to climate, resources, and long-term sustainability.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

In a way, I participate for the 'love of the game' — the chance to push design thinking further and see how a concept resonates within the international architectural discourse. Competitions provide a rare opportunity to explore ideas that might not emerge within the constraints of everyday practice. They create a space for experimentation, research, and critical thinking.

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

If you enjoy creativity and experimentation, I would definitely encourage you to try competitions. They can be challenging, but they are also a lot of fun and a great way to discover your own voice as an architect.