Norman Foster Foundation Kharkiv Housing Challenge competition participant - studio SAAM

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the participant of our "Norman Foster Foundation Kharkiv Housing Challenge" competition – Judith H Ten Kate from Netherlands!

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.

SAAM stands for 'samen,' which means 'together' in Dutch, reflecting our belief that good design is achieved through strong collaboration. This cooperation involves the client, the architect, and all other parties engaged in the project.

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?

Studio SAAM specializes in sustainable transformations of existing buildings. We are passionate about exploring the most logical, surprising, efficient, beautiful, and even exciting possibilities and opportunities. Our diverse portfolio includes projects in residential construction, hospitality, and offices, working with both private and business clients. We have extensive experience navigating complex challenges, such as transforming monuments, working within protected village and cityscapes, and merging homes in urban environments.

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

As architects, our goal is to create interventions that, through a pragmatic and sustainable approach, repurpose the existing structures and honor the past while laying the foundation for the future. We believe the dialogue between old and new is essential to meaningful interventions, and this is reflected in our approach.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Participating in competitions expands your abilities and challenges your team by exposing them to diverse realities and situations. It strengthens collaboration and decision-making.

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

Collaboration and experimentation are essential to creating valuable and meaningful design. The most important—and sometimes the hardest—step is to take the plunge and begin.