The Home of Shadows #2 competition Honorable mention winner - Denisse Janete Gomez Lopez

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winners of our "The Home of Shadows #2" competition – Denisse Janete Gomez Lopez from Mexico!

Denisse Janete Gomez Lopez

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.

We are a multidisciplinary architecture studio, founded in 2014 in Mexico City and currently based in León, Guanajuato. We develop projects of various types and scales, emphasizing solutions based on constant questioning. Our work translates architectural essence into materialized proposals and visions. Our mission is to go beyond conventional limits, bringing bold ideas to life that inspire and transform environments. Each project is a passionate exploration, where we seek and reveal the unique value of architecture, thus enhancing spaces with authenticity and meaning.

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?

We have worked on progressive social housing projects for San Francisco del Rincón, Gto., participated in the national competition for the Center for Environmental Culture (CCA) in Chapultepec Forest, CDMX, and developed the TPS-72 housing building in Tapachula, Chiapas. We have also completed housing and infrastructure projects in León, Gto.

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

For us, architecture is the spatial and material manifestation of human complexity. It is the discipline that translates the multiple dimensions of human experience into physical spaces that not only meet functional needs but also enrich daily life. Through architecture, we strive to understand and reflect the diversity of people's thoughts, emotions, and behaviors, creating environments that respond to these complexities harmoniously and meaningfully. We aim to design spaces that promote the well-being, safety, and holistic development of their inhabitants, integrating technical, aesthetic, and social aspects.

In essence, architecture turns abstract ideas and human aspirations into tangible realities, shaping the places where we live, work, and interact. It is a synthesis of art and science that materializes the essence of humanity in every structure and space it creates. Our role as architects in society is to act as translators of diverse realities. We interpret and balance the multiple dimensions of the natural and artificial, social dynamics, and technological advances to create coherent and functional spaces. Our mission is to synthesize all these realities into a harmonious balance, creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing and functional but also promote balanced and enriching coexistence between people and their environment.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We firmly believe in the importance of exploring new frontiers in design and construction, which drives us to actively participate in various competitions. These competitions offer us a unique platform to experiment and develop innovative approaches that challenge traditional norms and enrich our architectural proposals. Additionally, we consider teaching an integral component of our professional practice. We complement our office work with teaching, creating a space for the exchange of knowledge and experiences with our students. Through this interaction, we not only share our techniques and concepts but also nourish ourselves with the fresh ideas and innovative perspectives that students bring. This continuous feedback allows us to address architectural challenges with a renewed and multifaceted vision, thereby enhancing our ability to offer creative and effective solutions in each project.

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

Participating in architecture competitions places you in a more free and creative position, removing you from everyday restrictions. This environment allows you to question and explore ideas differently, leading to more innovative and enriching solutions for your projects. Competitions challenge you to think outside the box, pushing you to improve and expand your skills and professional perspectives.