Architecture Competition Kurgi Observation Tower Green prize winners – HEDLEY DESIGN LIMITED

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Green prize winners of our Kurgi Observation Tower competition – Steven Hedley, Carl Herron and Callum Fysh from the United Kingdom!

Team from HEDLEY DESIGN LIMITED

Founded in 2004, we are a small architectural design studio consisting of three team members, based in North East England. Each team member brings their own set of design and technical expertise which allows us to approach projects of any scale as a collaborative endeavor to provide the best outcomes for our clients. Across the practice we all share a keen passion for problem solving and the experiential impact of architecture on its users. This approach to architecture enables us to push the boundaries of the site, aesthetics, and spatial production.

Brief information about the projects 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?

Our portfolio consists of a range of small-scale domestic and commercial projects successfully delivered across the North East England and the UK. We undertake all projects with a high level of rigor, with an aim to explore innovative and contemporary design solutions for each design brief and client. Over ten years of experience of small-scale practice has highlighted the importance of placemaking and user experience in projects of all scales and typologies. In contrast, we have also been involved in the restoration and renovation of Listed Building projects where possible. Most notably, on a Grade II listed church built in 1872 where we were given the opportunity of bringing the neglected church back to life with an emphasis on celebrating its cultural and historical character.

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

Architecture has the ability to promote improved social interaction, mental wellbeing and productivity. For these reasons, the role and value of the architect in society is pivotal for future growth and development. Through years of education and experience, architects are provided with the tools to educate clients and communities on an ever-changing built environment with innovative technologies and design responses.

Why do you participate in architecture vision competitions?

As a small practice, architecture vision competitions give us the opportunity to test new ideas and flex our creative skills on projects outside of our norm. Approaching projects such as this with freedom and experimentation allows us to develop new skills and mediums for project delivery. This has been seen to inspire the team to develop new skills and knowledge that can be adapted into live projects ongoing within the practice.

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

The value of undertaking architecture vision competitions, we believe, will vary depending on the practice type. Our experience of the architectural education system has instilled a belief in maintaining a consistent balance between creativity and practicality through architecture projects. Running a vision competition alongside regular practice allows us to test and experiment with new ideas without the restrictions and limitations usually accustomed to live projects. We then leave this process with new-found knowledge and awareness of the successes and defects found within the design process. We also find value in marketing across our social platforms and website, having produced high quality design drawings and visualizations, to sell our architectural intent.