Architecture Competition MICROHOME / Edition #5 2nd prize winner – Lionel Giordano

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 2nd prize winner of our "MICROHOME / Edition #5" competition – Lionel Giordano from United Kingdom!

Lionel Giordano from United Kingdom

Following my studies in architecture I have been working in practice for the past 8 years. My professional and academic background varies from Architecture to product design, and I have participated in several design competitions within these areas. Thinking about the current climate crisis, recently I have been exploring sustainable/energy efficient design and alternative construction methodologies in developing countries.

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?

Professionally I have been involved in a wide range of award-winning projects, from residential, healthcare, mix-use to large-scale master planning. At present I am working on small to medium-scale residential and healthcare projects. Out of the professional environment I tend to compete in small scale residential projects that respond to global issues related to sustainability and housing crisis.

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

Architecture can be seen as a powerful tool that allows us to understand past lessons, to be applied in present-day challenges, for the design of a better future. Contemplating on the current environmental crisis, the responsibility to address it falls on the public, of which the architect is part of. And the architect, being intimately knowledgeable with the process of designing, envisioning and materializing a project, it lies in his/ her hands, the responsibility to lead through investigation and trialling with innovative design solutions, towards a sustainable way of living, in the interest of the public, him/ herself and the planet.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Participating in architecture competitions allows me to push my creativity and grants me the freedom of experimenting with innovative solutions without many restrictions.

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

The process of designing/thinking through drawing can be quite therapeutic and worth investing time into. Competitions allow you to express your creative thinking, challenge you to push the boundaries of your imagination and help you refine your design and representational skills. These come in very handy for your professional work as-well.