MICROHOME Kingspan edition 2024/25 Honorable mention winners - Binyu Minchev Binev

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our "MICROHOME Kingspan edition 2024/25" competition – Binyu Minchev Binev from Bulgaria!

Binyu Minchev Binev

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.

My name is Binyu, and I am a qualified architect. Throughout my career, I have worked for both small and large practices across the UK. I have experience in all design stages, from early concept development to site delivery, across a range of project types.

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?

My portfolio covers a wide range of sectors, including residential, workplace, accommodation, aviation, and sports facilities. Many of these projects have incorporated Modern Methods of Construction (MMC), such as cross-laminated timber (CLT), panelised systems, and 3D volumetric modules. I enjoy working on projects that combine innovation, practicality, and sustainability.

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

To me, architecture is functional art — shaped around people, their needs, and their environments. I believe an architect’s role is to achieve balance between practicality and aesthetics by creating elegant and well-crafted structures that serve their intended purpose.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Competitions provide an exciting opportunity to work on briefs outside of my day-to-day practice. They allow me to experiment with new ideas, push my creative boundaries, and continue challenging and developing my design skills.

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

Choose a competition that genuinely interests you, and just go for it! It’s a fantastic way to strengthen your design thinking, explore new ideas, and gain valuable experience outside the professional practice.