Architecture Competition MICROHOME 2019 Green prize winner - UNIVERSITY OF ILLINOIS URBANA-CHAMPAIGN

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Green prize winner of our “MICROHOME 2019 ” competition - Eric Weber from United States!

Eric Weber from United States

I am currently a first-year graduate student studying architecture at the University of Illinois in Urbana-Champaign. I have been lucky enough to work briefly at different architectural firms in Chicago as well as become familiar with architecture overseas by studying abroad in Barcelona, Spain.

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 company/ individuals have been involved?

I am currently a student so I do not have any projects that are currently being worked on or built. However, I am highly interested in the concept of downsizing and designing spaces to be multifunctional. 

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

I believe the role of an architect is more important than people realize. We hold the key to creating the world around us. As architects, we have the responsibility of designing spaces that will cater to and improve the lives of those residing within them. We must also be courteous to the environment, whether it be through sustainability or respecting the already built environment surrounding a design.

Why do you participate in architecture vision competitions?

I participate in competitions because they offer the possibility to design with new and innovative forms of architecture. They also push you to think outside of the box and do research into how you can make your vision possible. Competitions also give you the opportunity to design spaces that can be different from what you usually design.

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

I highly encourage everyone to participate in architecture competitions because they are a fun and challenging way to improve how you tackle design. It is also possible to learn from other participants by analyzing how they resolved the same issues you designed for.