Kinderspace competition Honorable mention winner - Arquitectura y Construcción de Colombia S.A.S. (ARTICØ)

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our "Kinderspace" competition – Ivan Fernando Lopez Velez from Colombia, Arquitectura y Construcción de Colombia S.A.S. (ARTICØ)!

Arquitectura y Construcción de Colombia S.A.S. (ARTICØ) Team

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.

Ártico Arquitectura was founded on April 17, 2020, and is located in the city of Medellín Colombia. Currently, the company’s team consists of 10 architects, along with a multidisciplinary group responsible for managing and executing construction projects.

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?

The company has had the opportunity to design and explore architecture from various perspectives. We have developed projects in different sectors, such as healthcare, as well as residential, bar, restaurant, and nightclub projects. One of the projects that we have been most passionate about was the development of a bunker for radiological calibrations. In this project, the collaborative work with physicists was essential, as they provided us with the necessary parameters to design a safe space that houses a machine operating with nuclear energy. The goal was not only to ensure the space met standard regulations and was safe, but also to create a pleasant, functional, and aesthetically pleasing environment for all the workers who operate in this space on a daily basis.

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

Architecture is the discipline that transforms the intangible into the tangible. However, we are not only referring to the aesthetic or formal aspects, but to the profound impact it has on society. Architecture influences the way people interact with their environment, significantly improving their quality of life. A well-planned design not only enhances comfort and physical well-being but also contributes to mental health and social cohesion, creating spaces that promote collective well-being.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

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

Without a doubt, participating in competitions is an excellent opportunity for professional growth. These competitions offer the chance to explore new ideas and approaches, free from the constraints of real-world projects. They are a way to challenge oneself, step out of the comfort zone, and experiment with creativity and innovation. Additionally, they provide the opportunity for self-evaluation, allowing one to better understand team dynamics and receive valuable feedback for continuous improvement.