The Architect’s Stair / Edition #1 competition Honorable mention winner - Albert Salud Fajardo

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our The Architect’s Stair / Edition #1 competition – Albert Salud Fajardo from United States!

Albert Salud Fajardo

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’m a licensed architect and project designer based in Raleigh, North Carolina. Currently, I practice in a nationally recognized firm where I focus on exterior & conceptual design, visualization, and design-technology workflows.

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 worked primarily along the East coast and contributed to higher-education, cultural, and science & technology projects. My work is typically mid-to-large.

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

Architecture allows me to pursue my creativity while staying grounded in reality. It is unique in that it is fundamentally utilitarian yet artful. Architects have the ability to turn ideas into built outcomes that can shape culture, memory, and place.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I enter competitions as a means of exploration. It allows me to test speculative ideas that challenge everyday assumptions or spark inspiration free from client constraints.

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 a great way to keep you design mindset sharp. Don’t fixate on the outcome, choose briefs that are personal to you, and aim to communicate one powerful idea clearly.