Architecture Competition Modular Home Design Challenge 2021 2nd and Student prize winners – Syracuse University

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 2nd and Student prize winners of our “Modular Home Design Challenge 2021” competition – Jessica Michelle Rithika Anand, Tiffany Chen and Angelina Zhang from United States!

2nd and Student prize winners from United States

We are currently 4th year students at the Syracuse University School of Architecture. We are privileged to have received guidance from many professors throughout the past few years. They have counselled us when exploring various paths within the field and nurtured our specific interest in architecture that caters to the underserved, as well as green building design.

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?

In studio design class, we have worked on a variety of projects on different scales, which began to develop our skills in research, concept, and building design. In recent semesters, we have focused more on a community scale first, then narrowing it into a site within the community. This has allowed us to establish a more critical understanding of the area before acting upon the site.

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

Architecture is a tool that can manipulate space and its functionality. It can affect or create the dynamics of a society. However, the way in which it is utilized can result in positive or negative change. As the architects, it is our role and responsibility to acknowledge both the history of harm that the field has affected, as well as our potential to either ignore or address these issues. In order to do so, we must listen to the people and respond to them throughout the architectural process, all while recognising our own limitations. By doing so, we as architects can create spaces that are beneficial to all involved parties, making beauty and opportunity both accessible and equitable.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architecture competitions allow one to share architectural designs with a broader audience while contributing to a larger discourse. The experience and process throughout empowers creative thinking and provides opportunities to learn from each other. Although it can be a challenge, it is a way to apply the knowledge we have acquired and let ourselves explore our interests. Lastly, it is always rewarding if you win a prize!

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 another method of learning and expressing your ideas. Not only that, but it pushes the boundaries of your creativity through complex and unique prompts and tests your limits. There are no disadvantages to entering, and there is always something to be gained.