Architecture competition Pape Bird Observation Tower Honorable mention - Ana Rita Gomes

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the winners of the Honorable mention of our “Pape Bird Observation Tower” competition - Ana Rita Gomes from Portugal!

Ana Rita Gomes from Portugal

I’m a young Portuguese architect, currently working in an young and enthusiastic office in Lisbon. I had the pleasure to study in Coimbra’s University, where I completed my Architectural Master’s studies. During this adventure, I also had the opportunity to take part in an Erasmus Mobility Program, which led me to spend one year in Italy at Università degli Studi Roma Tre.

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 company/ individuals have been involved?

I think it is very interesting to work with all types of scales, because each one has its own challenges, so it is very hard to decide one or another. At this moment, since I’m beginning my professional experience, I find it easier to deal with smaller scales because it allows you to the most control, by yourself, at every stage of the project.

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

Architecture had and still has a very important role in our society. It exists because humanity exists. It makes people get closer and talk about themes that they probably don’t want to talk about, but they need to.

Why do you participate in architecture vision competitions?

I like to challenge myself in architecture and try to get out of my comfort zone and architectural competitions gives you this kind of opportunity. It is a way to pick a different architectural program or object, and try something you really wanted to do but you just never did before.

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

The best advice I can give is: If you don’t know if you should compete or not, just do it. What really matters is the process to achieve the final result, because it is the moment where you learn the most.