The Legendary Highway 14 Tower 2nd prize winners - STUDIO AEK

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 2nd prize winners of our The Legendary Highway 14 Tower competition – Roxana-Andreea Irimia and Mihai Bogdan Ionita from Romania!

Mihai Bogdan Ionita and Roxana-Andreea Irimia

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.

Founded in 1991, the studio initially concentrated entirely on glass home products, made with local means and shipped all over Europe. In 1998 it moved into the area of architecture and interior projects, leading to creating in 2016 a new entity focused on integrated architecture and industrial design services. For each project we address local creative people in order to assemble multi-disciplinary structures specially created to meet the client needs. This way we gather the expertise needed to address issues in a variety of ways, leading to an open and effective creative approach. STUDIO AEK offers full-service support to companies, entrepreneurs and NGO’s in reaching innovation through products, space and environment.

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?

Our studio specializes in architecture and product design, engaging in a wide array of projects ranging from residential and commercial architecture to historical restoration. We pride ourselves on our ability to collaborate with larger architecture firms, leveraging our talent and knowledge to enhance project outcomes. In terms of project scale, we have experience working on both small and large-scale endeavours, adapting our expertise to meet the specific needs of each project. While we do not limit ourselves to a particular scale, we have a penchant for projects that allow us to integrate innovative design solutions while respecting historical context.

Some significant projects we've been involved with include:

Residential Architecture: We have designed and executed numerous residential projects, ranging from single-family homes to multi-unit developments. Our focus is on creating spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional and sustainable. Commercial Architecture: Our portfolio includes the design of various commercial spaces such as offices, retail stores, and restaurants. We prioritize creating environments that enhance the user experience while meeting the unique requirements of each business.

Historical Restoration: We have had the privilege of contributing to the preservation and restoration of historical landmarks and buildings. These projects require a delicate balance of honouring the original design while integrating modern amenities and structural improvements.

Collaborative Projects: In addition to our independent work, we collaborate with larger architecture firms to bring our expertise to complex and high-profile projects. Through these collaborations, we contribute our unique perspective and design sensibility to enhance the overall quality of the final product.

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

Architecture, to us, embodies the intersection of art, science, and functionality. In essence, architecture is not just about creating buildings; it's about shaping the way we experience the world around us. Architects have the unique opportunity and responsibility to influence society positively through their designs, creating spaces that inspire, enrich, and endure for generations to come.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Competitions serve as a platform for us to explore fresh ideas, challenge ourselves, and experiment with cutting-edge design concepts. They grant us the freedom to think creatively and approach problems in unconventional ways, fostering a culture of innovation within our team. This environment also enables us to continuously refine our skills as we engage with diverse design briefs and problem-solving scenarios, offering a sense of growth and development.

Moreover, competitions provide an opportunity to inspire others and, in turn, increase our visibility and recognition within the architectural community and beyond. This exposure can significantly enhance our presence and reputation, amplifying our impact on the field.

In essence, participating in architecture competitions resonates with our commitment to innovation, collaboration, social responsibility, and historical preservation. It empowers us to stretch the boundaries of our creativity, advance professionally, expand our professional network, gain acknowledgment, and contribute positively to our society.

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

We encourage anyone with a spirit of creativity and a desire to challenge themselves professionally to push their boundaries by participating in architectural design competitions.

The greatest challenge lies in striking a delicate balance between the instinctive urge to pursue originality and uniqueness and the imperative to maintain practicality and coherence in the final design solution. It's this tension that fuels innovation and pushes participants to expand their creative boundaries while remaining grounded in real-world constraints and considerations.