Architecture Competition Yoga House in the Bog Honorable mention winner – Weronika Plata

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our Honorable mention winner for our  "Yoga House in the Bog" competition – Weronika Plata from Poland!

Weronika Plata from Poland

I studied at Gdansk University of Technology, Strathclyde University in Glasgow, and Politecnico di Torino. I have been working in my profession since 2018, the year when I completed my Master's Degree. Since then, I have collaborated with other offices, working on residential buildings, public-use structures, and single-family houses. This has given me the opportunity to work on a diverse range of building scales. Since 2021, I have owned Weronika Plata Studio, located in Sopot, where I focus on the graphic aspects of the design process and create 3D visuals. In 2022 I became a fully licensed architect - I received a professional license without any restictions for architectural designing. Last year, I had the honor of winning a competition organized by Buildner as well, called “The Underhill Experience” – Iceland Volcano Coffee Shop.

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 my daily work, I primarily focus on residential buildings, but I find great satisfaction when I have the opportunity to work on public-use structures. I am involved in the entire design process, starting from the conceptual phase and progressing towards more detailed technical projects. This approach allows me to learn and grow, as it involves translating design ideas into specific building elements throughout the workflow.

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

Architecture, to me, is a form of expression. It represents a captivating blend of art and technology that has a profound impact on society and the surrounding landscape. Given its significance, architecture should be approached with utmost respect. Architects possess a remarkable power, but with it comes a great responsibility to shape not only the experiences of users, but also their behaviors. As our landscapes increasingly urbanize, architects must exercise extra caution in their decision-making processes.

The choices made by architects have the potential to shape the way people interact with and perceive their environments. They can influence social dynamics, promote sustainability, and enhance the overall well-being of individuals and communities. Therefore, it is crucial for architects to recognize the weight of their role and prioritize thoughtful and responsible design practices. By doing so, they can contribute to creating harmonious and inspiring spaces that positively impact society and the world at large.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I chose to engage in architecture competitions as a means of broadening my horizons, thinking outside the box, and combating burnout. Competitions, in my view, offer a platform for expressing and showcasing our ideas. They provide an opportunity to break free from conventional constraints and explore innovative design concepts. By participating in competitions, I seek to nurture my creativity, challenge myself, and continuously evolve as an architect.

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

Even if you doubt your chances of winning, participating in architecture competitions is always a valuable opportunity to enhance your portfolio. By analyzing the work of other participants, you can challenge and refine your own designs, gaining priceless insights into the project's context. Competitions also serve as a valuable platform for young architects to improve their workflow and explore new avenues of design. Engaging in competitions allows for experimentation, pushing boundaries, and fostering growth and innovation in the field.