MICROHOME #10 competition Honorable mention winners - Zakaria Hamoutan and Khaoula Rhoulam

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce the Honorable Mention winners of the MICROHOME #10 competition - Zakaria Hamoutan and Khaoula Rhoulam from Morocco!

Zakaria Hamoutan and Khaoula Rhoulam

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.

Khaoula Rhoulam: I obtained my master’s degree in architecture from the National School of Architecture in Rabat, Morocco. Over the course of six years of study, I enriched my creativity by working on a wide variety of academic projects and through several internships. After graduating, I had the opportunity to collaborate with renowned firms and have since worked on multiple projects ranging from residential and office buildings to hospitality projects. Zakaria Hamoutan: I completed my architectural studies in Spain at CEU University in Valencia, where I earned my Master’s degree. During my studies, I developed a strong sense of space and attention to detail, allowing me to craft thoughtful and effective design solutions. After graduating, I decided to return to Morocco, where I’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with several major firms.

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?

Khaoula Rhoulam: The projects I have worked on range from mixed-use (residential and office buildings) to hospitality projects, resorts and masterplans. Over the past two years, I have had the opportunity to work on numerous competitions as well. Zakaria Hamoutan: I had the opportunity to work on a wide range of projects, including residential and tertiary developments. I am currently focusing on site supervision for hospital and clinic projects in my hometown, Rabat.

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

Architecture is about creating spaces that make people feel good and live better. It’s a mix of creativity and logic to solve real-life problems. In our society, an architect should help improve everyday life by designing places that are practical and respectful of our culture. Architecture is also a way to transmit knowledge and history across time.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We take part in architecture competitions because they give us the freedom to experiment and exercise our creativity beyond the constraints of everyday practice. Competitions also offer a moment to pause, step back, and gain a critical perspective on our ongoing projects. Each new challenge brings valuable insights, and we often find ourselves integrating the ideas and solutions we develop into our daily work.

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

Architecture competitions are one of the best ways to strengthen your conceptual skills. We encourage you to take a break from everyday practice from time to time and let your imagination run free. Make experimentation and discovery your main objectives, and you will see how rewarding these competitions can be for your career.