Architecture Competition Painters' Lake House 2nd prize winner – Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urbanism

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 2nd prize winner of our "Painters' Lake House" competition – Cristina Popescu from Romania!

Cristina Popescu from Romania

I am a student navigating the currents of young adulthood, trying to find my role as an architect in today’s society, constantly learning and absorbing as much information as I can. I am currently a fourth year student at ’Ion Mincu University of Architecture and Urban Planning’ based in Bucharest, Romania and this is my fifth competion overall.

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?

Influenced by the projects we are assigned at university, I am more focused on small scale projects, but this year I am branching out into more complex solutions for up-scale projects.

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

Architecture is more than art. The juvenile action of overlapping, juxtaposing and manipulating basic or complex forms impacts the way our society functions, the structure and flow of our lives. Now more than ever, we have to think about the role we play in preserving the well-being and health of our planet and thus us, as its inhabitants. I see our role as a footprint for generations to come and better our society and way of life.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Participating in competitions allows me to focus on conceptual thinking. I always try to pick something new, a subject or a programme I haven’t had the chance to approach before, so I learn a lot in doing research this way. It is an excellent way to better your concept approach, learning about new technologies, adding a great project to your portfolio, etc.

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

Do it. Read. Sketch. Even if you don’t win, there are way more beneficial aspects of entering an architecture competiton. Even crucial I would say. It is a great stimulus and there is really nothing to lose.