Architecture Competition Portugal Elderly Home Honorable mention winners – MIA DESIGN STUDIO

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our Honorable mention winners for our "Portugal Elderly Home" competition – Manh Nguyen Hoang, Long Nguyen Quoc, Huy Nguyen The and Minh Mai Ngoc from Vietnam!

MIA Design Studio was established in 2003 by Mr. Nguyen Hoang Manh as the principal architect. It's an innovative company with offices in Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. With a team of 50 professionals, we work with independent contractors to improve their projects. Our team consists of architects, landscape architects and interior designers. Our designs are inspired by modern movement and harmoniously compound indoor and outdoor spaces, taking into consideration the specific qualities of each location. We care about preventing the welfare of future generations from being harmed by the actions and decisions of the present.

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?

Most of the works focus on sustainable designs to reduce negative impacts on the environment. Our goal is to design buildings that support energy efficiency and sustainability by making efficient use of materials, energy and space. The scale of the project is unlimited because each project will be a challenge, a new learning opportunity for us. Our signature projects include:

- Naman Retreat Pure Spa
- Wyndham Garden Phu Quoc
- Wyndham Club House
- Sky House
- Villa Tan Dinh

These are all highly appreciated works and won many national and international awards.

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

Architecture, to us, is the bridge that connects history, culture, economy, and technology. It embodies the interrelations between society, culture, people, and the urban environment, playing a vital role in their development. Architects have the power to transform places, change habits, and improve lives through their perception and clear vision. In our fast-paced world, architecture reminds us of what truly matters and offers a new perspective. With modesty, architects reveal a virtuous beauty by discarding the unnecessary, creating spaces that engage our senses and honor cultural traditions. Their role is to foster interactions, raise awareness, and humbly shape environments that harmonize with their surroundings.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We engage in architecture competitions to embrace challenges and seize opportunities for cultural exploration, connecting with diverse communities and countries. Through these experiences, we broaden our knowledge and gain fresh perspectives on the built environment. Such competitions enable us to continuously learn, grow, and contribute to the global architectural discourse.

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

Our advice would be "Just do it". Participating in architecture competitions can be highly beneficial, offering opportunities for growth, learning, and exposure. It allows individuals to challenge themselves, showcase their skills, and expand their professional network. Embracing the experience can lead to unexpected rewards and personal development.