Norman Foster Foundation Kharkiv Housing Challenge competition Honorable mention winners - Arian Karimzadeh Torabi and Sahar Samadi

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winners of our "Norman Foster Foundation Kharkiv Housing Challenge" competition – Arian Karimzadeh Torabi and Sahar Samadi from Germany!

Arian Karimzadeh Torabi and Sahar Samadi

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.

Arian Karimzadeh: Arian Karimzadeh, an expert in pre-design studies, schematic design, and design development, graduated with a master's of architectural engineering from the University of Science and Technology (IUST). Arian started his professional career in 2017 with DOT Architects and until today had a direct and indirect impact on the design of residential, office, commercial, and mixed projects with a total area of ​​350,000 square meters in the form of construction holdings, private clients, and competitions.



Sahar Samadi: Sahar Samadi is an architect with over a decade of experience in design and project coordination, having commenced her career in 2013. She has collaborated with numerous professional BIM experts in various architectural offices on numerous projects. Her experience encompasses a range of project types, including residential, office, commercial, and mixed-use developments.

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

We believe that architecture is the art of discovering a singular, comprehensive solution to a myriad of diverse challenges. This solution must engage in a dialogue with the surrounding geography, society, and culture, while also considering the budgetary constraints of both users and clients.

Furthermore, we view architecture as a delicate balance between artistic expression and engineering precision. It is essential that a building not only meets the needs of its users but also integrates harmoniously with its context, ensuring longevity and relevance for years to come, all while fostering an inviting and functional space for its occupants.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architecture, more than any other technical or professional discipline, profoundly influences human lifestyles and is deeply intertwined with personal life. I can confidently say that architectural design has ignited our passion for problem-solving and seeking solutions. We view architectural competitions as opportunities to challenge ourselves and explore creative solutions to complex issues.

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

As mentioned, architectural competitions present an excellent opportunity to cultivate the discovery and intuition necessary for finding architectural solutions. Additionally, they connect you with the broader architectural community, allowing you to observe how others approach similar challenges. This exchange of ideas enhances your understanding of the field.