Pavilion Of Humanity: First Contact / Edition #2 Honorable mention winners - Moxiao Guo and Cindy He

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winners of our "Pavilion Of Humanity: First Contact / Edition #2" competition – Moxiao Guo and Cindy He from Canada!

Moxiao Guo and Cindy He

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.

We are currently second-year undergraduate students at the University of Waterloo School of Architecture in Ontario, Canada. The curriculum covers a range of topics that encourage the exploration and redefinition of the paradigm of modern architecture while also emphasizing thoughtful and sensitive design in response to various contexts.

Throughout our studies, our main focus has been analyzing existing building typologies and reimagining their roles and relationships with place, nature, and our communities today. We have worked on several academic projects addressing various concerns, from cultural heritage to environmental building design, supported by systematic, rigorous, and in-depth analysis and development strategies.

We hope to continue exploring and reimagining the relationship between place, context, and the physical spaces we inhabit throughout our academic and professional journey.

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

Architecture is an influential component of design, where spatiality, form, context, culture, technology, and many other factors come together to foster and strengthen systems and communities. We believe that architects, in collaboration with other stakeholders and contributors, possess the tools and capabilities to create extraordinary value in any aspect of our physical, conceptual, or spiritual environments. Thus, we are responsible for taking on this challenge by continuously posing questions and engaging in discussions to adapt to our changing landscapes.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

As students, we believe that architecture competitions are a great way to test and hone the skills developed through our studies, while also capitalizing on the opportunity to explore personal ideas and thoughts that may not be explored in a professional setting. They can serve as excellent outlets for practice and experimentation in a creatively open environment.

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

We highly encourage individuals, especially those just starting their architectural careers, to participate in competitions. These competitions offer opportunities to explore thought-provoking topics at your own pace. By being selective about the type of project, it can become a valuable learning experience tailored to the team's interests. Simply taking the initiative to participate in competitions can expand your portfolio of works and experiences, which can significantly enhance your design skills and serve as a stepping stone to establishing yourself as an architect.