Architecture Competition Museum of Emotions Honorable mention – Eszter Bernadett Barna

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our Honorable mention winner for our "Museum of Emotions" competition – Eszter Bernadett Barna from Hungary!

Eszter Bernadett Barna from Hungary

I recently started working for Dublin-based ALTU Architects, originally founded in 1997. This is my first time working abroad so I have a lot to learn about the architecture, culture and people here. I'm open to new things, which is proven by the fact that this is also the first time I've entered an architecture competition. I have previously worked for a number of large firms in Budapest, where I was involved in the design of major public buildings. In addition to my work experience, I have always been looking for ways to connect with architectural associations who are socially sensitive, who work for the community.

During my university years, I was part of a student group for several years where we did the design and construction together with the community. Previously, I was also interested in a number of topics such as dealing with housing crises, educating people to be curious about the built environment from an early age, the power of architecture to create community between generations, and architectural communication. Currently involved in the design of small experimental residential buildings.

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?

One of my most influential experiences was participating in the reconstruction of the National Opera House in Budapest, under the leadership of the ZDA office, which gave me a lot of new experiences as a beginner designer, as this building is one of Hungary's most important built cultural heritage. In addition, I have been involved mainly in public buildings (ZED Studio, Földes Archiects)

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

For me, architecture is about curiosity and discovery. It's like a big jigsaw puzzle, where the challenge is to learn to interpret environmental signals, people's feedback, needs, technological challenges, and then to find the best possible architectural response to these. It's a wonderful feeling to be part of such a creative process and to go from idea to completion

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architectural competitions are a great opportunity to think outside the box, to let ideas run wild, and sometimes to express innovative ideas. It gives a sense of freedom that I think is essential for a creative career. I think it is excellent that there are more and more such competitions and that students can take part in them.

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

It's useful for anyone who has ideas on the subjects in question. These competitions are mostly looking for answers to questions that affect us directly in different aspects of life, and all is about our human lives. I can only recommend everyone to try it out.