The Architect’s Stair #2 competition Honorable mention winner - Natalie Maria Burkhart

We’d like to take this opportunity to introduce the Honorable Mention winner of The Architect’s Stair #2 competition — Natalie Maria Burkhart from Germany!

Natalie Maria Burkhart

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 an architect based in Germany and Austria with a strong academic and professional foundation in design and planning processes. My focus lies in concept-driven design that combines strong spatial narratives with a sensitive approach to site and context. My professional work is also centered on BIM methodology and the development of structured, model-based workflows that enhance both design quality and project efficiency. I am particularly interested in how AI can be further implemented in architecture to set new standards for future-oriented 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?

I have worked on a wide range of projects and competitions, from small residential buildings to complex institutional and urban developments. Across these scales, I consistently integrate digital processes and clear, collaborative workflows to deliver precise and contextually sensitive design solutions.

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

For me, architecture is both a creative and a strategic discipline. It is about designing spaces that inspire and serve people, while at the same time developing intelligent processes. Architects are also responsible for connecting vision with reality.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Competitions give me the opportunity to explore conceptual ideas beyond the limitations of daily project work. They allow me to test experimental approaches and refine my own personal design language, while also integrating digital methods that strengthen clarity and precision.

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

Think of competitions as a way to grow, not just to win. They help you develop conceptual strength, improve communication skills, and experiment with ideas you might not test in practice.