Virtual Home / Edition #2 Honorable mention winner - Catalina Cabral-Framiñan

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honourable mention winner of our "Virtual Home / Edition #2" competition – Catalina Cabral-Framiñan from United States!

Catalina Cabral-Framiñan

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 a fourth-year student in the University of Miami's Bachelor of Architecture program. During my time here, I have focused on experimenting with various methods to integrate rendering techniques and digital modeling into my projects. I aim to push the boundaries of graphic representation, employing both photorealistic and stylized techniques. Additionally, my interest in VR and AR has led me to contribute to a research lab at the school, where the focus is on exploring innovative ways to digitize the construction industry.

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?

In addition to my involvement in the Double-C Research Unit, I have worked in the school's Fabrication Lab. This experience has allowed me to connect the representation and inhabitation of the digital realm of architecture with physical fabrication techniques, particularly through experimental 3D printing. With a keen interest in digital fabrication and VR/AR, I aim to explore how both can be utilized to enhance user experiences, particularly in a rapidly densifying urban environment.

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

Architecture, to me, is all-encompassing. It impacts every aspect of life, emphasizing the importance of good design in ensuring the well-being of people's lives. This profound responsibility must be treated seriously, as every aspect of our work has the potential to influence not only individuals and communities but also the environment.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architecture competitions provide an excellent opportunity to expand one's creative boundaries through innovative and forward-thinking project prompts. Conceptual competitions, in particular, offer greater freedom to experiment compared to many projects in a typical undergraduate core studio. This freedom fosters more experimental thinking, enhancing the ability to devise innovative problem-solving strategies.

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

I would encourage individuals to go for it! Entering a competition may evoke hesitancy, especially when juggling multiple projects in school. However, you'll never know unless you try. Participating in competitions provides valuable experience, and the challenges they present contribute to personal and professional growth.