The Architect's Chair / Edition #1 3rd prize winner - Emad Lajevardi

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 3rd prize winner of our The Architect's Chair / Edition #1  competition – Emad Lajevardi!

Emad Lajevardi

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.

Alongside my career as an architect, which offers opportunities to engage in diverse projects spanning from urban planning to interiors and installations, I launched my own practice in late 2023 to focus on furniture design—an enduring passion of mine that I had long wished to pursue. The practice is based in both Tehran, Iran, and Frankfurt, Germany.

"ecke_5" stands in a room and becomes the fifth corner. Through an expressive approach and a clear geometric language, it defines functions and spatial relations. It eludes complex elements and aims to create a pure form that values primitive essence and matter. It is the result of architectural research and is influenced by the work of various practices in the field of furniture design.

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?

Throughout my career as an architect at CZA in Milan and Happ Architecture in Frankfurt, I have explored diverse projects, including furniture designs and installations such as the Augmented Architecture exhibit for Milan Design Week in September 2021. Moreover, my involvement in a variety of architectural facade design projects has deepened my understanding of materiality, geometries, and intricate connections.

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

Architecture, for me, is the fusion of imagination and practicality, a harmonious blend where form and function act together in the creation of spaces. It transcends mere construction; it's about sculpting environments that shape our daily experiences, from the way we inhabit our homes to the rhythm of our cities. The architecture that I sympathize with is the one with explicit and tangible geometries in form and subsequent executive details which proved to be efficient in construction as well.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Competitions serve as valuable learning experiences. They provide a chance to hone our skills and expand our creative horizons, receive feedback from jurors or peers, and refine skills and techniques. The process of conceptualizing, developing, and presenting a competition entry can be incredibly enriching, fostering growth and improvement as an architect.

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

For individuals considering whether to participate in architecture competitions, it's important to reflect on personal goals and availability. Assess the potential benefits, such as learning opportunities and exposure, against the time and energy required. Starting with smaller competitions can be a good way to gain experience, and seeking advice from mentors or peers can provide valuable guidance. Ultimately, participation can be rewarding, but it's essential to make a thoughtful decision based on individual circumstances and aspirations.