Morocco Oasis Retreat competition participant - Gabriel Alexander Traknyak

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the participant of our "Morocco Oasis Retreat" competition  – Gabriel Alexander Traknyak from United States!

Gabriel Alexander Traknyak

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.

I’ve wanted to be an architect since I was 8 years old. I didn’t know at the time, but when I drew a sketch of my parents house I had found my calling. I took every step to become an architectural designer. Traknyak Architecture was founded January 5th, 2023. I work independently as an architectural designer in Houston, Texas. I graduated from Kansas State University in 2017.

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?

I am currently working on a compact housing project for low income individuals. It is a project that grants integrity to the occupants through architectural design. One of my favorite houses I worked on is the Hanszen Magister house. It part of an educational facility at Rice University.

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

Most of our time as humans are spent indoors. Spaces help induce feelings and mold human behavior over time. Because of these things, the role of the architect is important. The architect has a responsibility to provide the best they can offer.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I participate in architectural competitions because of the opportunity for experimental but effective designs to be built. Many great architecture projects were built from design competitions. Any step to improve the physical world for humanity and the environment is imperative.

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

If architectural competitions is something you wish then hop on the deck and design little fish.