The Architect's Chair #2 competition 2nd prize winner - Harry Parr-Young

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 2nd prize winner of our "The Architect's Chair #2" competition – Harry Parr-Young from Sweden!

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.

I am a one-man design studio based in Stockholm, focusing on commercial and research based projects.

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?

I've been involved in projects ranging from commercial products, furniture to interior fit-outs. I recently finished a showroom design for a Swedish brand. it was an interesting scale to work with, presenting opportunities to create objects and spaces that needed to work on a practical level for the brand, yet at the same convey the unexpected aesthetic quality that the brand is known for. I enjoy developing and finding a balance between different needs and scales.

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

Architecture has a huge impact on our day to day, from a practical to an emotional perspective. It can inspire and lift your spirits while at the same time create environments that cater to our sustainability and social needs as a society. In the age of climate change and social media, I believe the role of the architect, in particular for social spaces, has never been more prominent. In urban planning, we will always need well-designed inclusive green spaces for all, that inspire a sense of community.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I believe competitions of this nature provide an opportunity to think beyond the constraints of the industry, to develop concepts that inspire or lead to surprising outcomes, which could even motivate change within the industry.

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

Competitions can be seen as a testing ground and an exercise on how to develop and present a concept affectively, which in turn will teach you great lessons later on for client presentations. There's nothing like the pressure of a competition to motivate yourself to do your best!