Climate change is a pressing issue that we all face, casting its evident impact across every sector of the industry. As global warming worsens, architects now have the opportunity to establish new benchmarks in environmental improvement.
In this article, we’ll explore the role of architects in combating climate change, their impact on the environment, and their responsibility to the planet. We will also showcase the top-winning projects of the Architecture MasterPrize Awards, which set a new standard for meaningful progress in both the industry and our global environment.
How do architects help with climate change?
Architects can help combat climate change in many ways. One of the most significant ways is by designing buildings that are energy-efficient, which reduces carbon emissions and saves energy costs. This can be achieved through the use of sustainable materials, such as recycled materials and those with low embodied energy. But, also through the implementation of energy-efficient technologies, such as solar panels and geothermal heating and cooling systems.
Climate-responsive design is also crucial in combating climate change. Architects must consider the local climate and design buildings that are appropriate for that specific environment. For example, buildings in hot and arid climates can utilize passive design strategies, such as shading and ventilation, to reduce the need for air conditioning. Similarly, buildings in colder climates can use passive solar design to maximize solar gain and minimize heat loss.
Net-zero buildings are another way in which architects can help combat climate change. These buildings produce as much energy as they consume, resulting in zero carbon emissions. Achieving net-zero requires careful planning and design, as well as the use of energy-efficient technologies and renewable energy sources.
How do architects impact the environment?
Architects have a significant impact on the environment, and it is essential that they consider the ecological footprint of their designs. The materials used in construction, transportation, and waste disposal all have an impact on the environment. By using sustainable materials, architects can reduce the carbon emissions associated with construction, as well as minimize waste and promote the circular economy.
Transportation is another significant contributor to carbon emissions. Architects can help reduce the environmental impact of transportation by designing buildings that are easily accessible by public transportation or by encouraging the use of bikes and walking. Architects can also design buildings that have a smaller footprint, reducing the amount of land that needs to be developed.
No footprint house
Does an architect have a responsibility to our natural environment?
Architects have a significant responsibility to our natural environment. As stewards of the built environment, architects have the power to create sustainable, healthy, and livable spaces that promote the well-being of people and the planet.
In addition to their responsibility to the environment, architects also have a responsibility to society, ensuring that their designs are equitable, accessible, and inclusive.
What is the role of the architect in sustainability?
The role of the architect in sustainability is to design buildings that are environmentally responsible, economically viable, and socially equitable. This requires a deep understanding of sustainable design principles, as well as an understanding of the local climate, culture, and context.
Architects must work closely with engineers, contractors, and other professionals to ensure that sustainable design strategies are integrated into every aspect of a project.
Biophilic design is an emerging trend in sustainable architecture that seeks to connect people with nature by incorporating natural elements, such as plants and natural light, into the built environment.
This not only promotes the well-being of people but also helps to restore the natural balance of the ecosystem.
Green buildings are a critical component of sustainable architecture as they are designed to minimize their environmental impact, reduce energy consumption, and promote the use of renewable energy.
By using sustainable design principles, such as climate-responsive design, passive design, and the use of sustainable materials, architects can create buildings that are energy-efficient and have a lower ecological footprint. However, sustainable design is not a one-time effort, but rather a process of continuous improvement.
As technologies and practices continue to evolve, architects must remain up-to-date with the latest developments in sustainable design and incorporate them into their projects.
Top winning projects of Architecture MasterPrize in using natural materials in construction and demonstrating profound respect for the environment of our planet:
1. The Arc at Green School Bali
Designed by IBUKU, is a prime example of a green building, using all natural materials in construction. Located in Bali, Indonesia, the building represents the excellence of engineering in using a series of bamboo arches in modern architecture. The building serves as the new gymnasium of the world famous alternative school; Green School in Bali.
The project is a testament to the role of architects in combating climate change and setting up new standards in our built environment.
The Arc at Green School Bali (Architectural Design of the Year – AMP – 2021)
2. Sara Cultural Center
A timber skyscraper that serves as a venue for arts, performances, and literature, devoted to the service of the public.
As an environmentally friendly high-rise structure and one of the tallest timber buildings in the world, it was constructed using a wide range of innovative solutions in mass timber construction.
Sara Cultural Center (Best of Best in Cultural Architecture – AMP – 2022)
3. The Dock Building
Located in Vancouver, Canada, designed by MGA | Michael Green Architecture, a world leading architectural firm specialized in timber buildings and large-scale sustainable construction, serves as a spacious marina for sailboats.
The project is designed to fulfill practical working requirements and stands as an exceptional example of both practicality and architectural beauty.
The Dock Building (Best of Best in Commercial Architecture – AMP – 2020)
4. No Footprint House (NFH)
In combating climate change, A-01 has developed a prototype residential house that aims to minimize the negative impact of construction on the environment.
The house not only seeks to utilize sustainable natural materials but also integrates sustainability into its economic, social, and spatial performance.
No Footprint House (NFH) – (Best of Best in Green Architecture – AMP – 2020)
5. Nocenco Cafe
is a renovation project located in Vietnam, designed by VTN Architects (Vo Trong Nghia Architects). Pioneering in the use of bamboo in modern architecture, VTN Architects has designed the building using locally sourced materials.
Recognizing the unique characteristic of bamboo and its lightweight nature, the construction was carried out with fewer labor and tailored to suit the tropical climate, utilizing readily available bamboo materials.
Nocenco Cafe (Interior Design of the Year – AMP – 2020)
6. The Ford Calumet Environmental Center
Center was designed by Valerio Dewalt Train. The building serves to educate visitors about the region’s past and set a precedent for a sustainable future where industry, nature, and culture can coexist.
The facility features a permanent exhibit, classrooms, offices, a bike repair area, restrooms, and storage spaces. The building incorporates sustainable design strategies such as rainwater harvesting and uses natural light to reduce energy consumption.
The project is a testament to the role of architects in combating climate change and promoting sustainability in our built environment.
Ford Calumet Environmental Center (WINNER in Green Architecture – AMP 2022)
7. The Glorieta Cibeles Tower
is a complete up-cycle of a structure abandoned after the historic 1985 earthquake. Designed as a sculptural inhabitable obelisk, the transformation comprised four fundamental axes: structure and resilience; comfort and functionality; aesthetic and tectonic design; and sustainability, in operational and embodied energy.
The intervention demonstrated that old deteriorated structures can be revitalized while exceeding all the current requirements of comfort, efficiency, sustainability, resiliency, and flexibility, becoming an example of urban recovery and renewal.
Glorieta Cibeles Tower (WINNER in Green Architecture – AMP 2022)
Architects and Climate Change
Architects play a critical role in combating climate change by designing energy-efficient, sustainable buildings that reduce carbon emissions and promote the use of renewable energy sources. Sustainable design principles, such as climate-responsive design, passive design, and the use of sustainable materials, are essential in achieving this goal.
As stewards of the built environment, architects have a significant responsibility to our natural world, and it is essential that they embrace this responsibility and work towards a more sustainable future.
The winning projects of Architecture MasterPrize in Green Architecture serve as excellent examples of sustainable design in action and provide inspiration for architects looking to create a more sustainable built environment.
Winning architectural awards is an excellent way to gain recognition for your work, showcase your talents, and establish yourself as a leading professional in the industry. Whether you’re an individual architect, an architecture firm, an interior designer, or a student, architectural awards can elevate your profile and help you attract new clients.
To help you get started, it’s a good idea to research different architectural awards and find the ones that are best suited for your project. With numerous architectural awards available, including one of the industry’s most respected Architecture MasterPrize, the renowned Pritzker Architecture Prize, and the Royal Gold Medal, the possibilities are endless.
However, crafting an award-winning entry can be a daunting task, you need more than just good images and a decent project description, requiring you to present your project’s unique features and showcase it in the best possible light. Fear not, though, as we have your back. In this article, we’ll provide you with some tips and tricks on how to write a winning entry for architectural awards that will impress the judges and increase your chances of winning!
1.Understand the Criteria of Architectural Awards
Before you start writing your entry, it’s essential to understand the criteria of the award you’re applying for. Each award has its own set of rules, guidelines, and judging criteria that you need to follow. Make sure you read the guidelines carefully and understand what the judges are looking for in a winning entry.
2. Showcase the Unique Features of Your Project
One of the most important things to do in a winning entry is to showcase the unique features of your project. What sets your project apart from the others? What innovative techniques or design elements did you use? Highlight these features in your entry and explain how they contribute to the overall success of the project.
3. Provide High-Quality Visuals
In addition to a well-written entry, you should also include high-quality visuals of your project. This can include photographs, renderings, floor plans, or sketches. Make sure the visuals are of high quality and showcase the best features of your project. You want the judges to be impressed by the visuals as well as the written content.
4. Tell a Compelling Story
Another key element of a winning entry is a compelling story. Your entry should tell the story of your project, from conception to completion. Explain the challenges you faced, the design decisions you made, and the impact your project has had on the community. A well-told story can make your entry stand out and leave a lasting impression on the judges.
5. Follow the Guidelines and Meet the Deadline
Finally, it’s important to follow the guidelines of the award and meet the deadline. Make sure you submit your entry on time and in the required format. Pay attention to the word count, formatting, and any other requirements specified in the guidelines. Failure to follow the guidelines could result in your entry being disqualified, no matter how impressive it is.
6. Focus on the Impact of the Project
In addition to showcasing the unique features of your project, it’s important to focus on its impact. What difference has your project made in the community? How has it improved the lives of its users? By demonstrating the positive impact of your project, you can show the judges that it is not only innovative and well-designed but also socially responsible.
7. Get Feedback from Peers and Colleagues
Before submitting your entry, it’s a good idea to get feedback from your peers and colleagues. Ask them to review your entry and provide constructive criticism. This can help you identify areas for improvement and make your entry even stronger. It can also help you catch any errors or inconsistencies in your entry before you submit it.
Writing a winning entry for architectural awards requires a combination of creativity, technical skills, and attention to detail. By understanding the criteria of the award, showcasing the unique features of your project, providing high-quality visuals, telling a compelling story, and following the guidelines, you can increase your chances of winning and establish yourself as an award-winning architect or designer. Check out some of the award winning architects and their projects on the Architecture MasterPrize website, and get inspired to create your own winning entry.
About Architeture MasterPrize (AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com
These 8 creative office interiors/work environments provide a blend of comfort and style that is sure to enhance productivity and motivation. Rather than adhering to the standard, sterile office design, these spaces showcase how incorporating the right elements can result in inviting environments where employees can comfortably relax and interact.
1. Mr. Green’s Office, Viet Nam, by MIA Design Studio
This office features a botanical garden-like reception area, with cool metal tones for elegance and simplicity. The garden lobby provides a refreshing atmosphere, while the living room and meeting room are located in private garden courtyards, offering shade and reducing glare.
2. Dyson, Global HQ, Singapore, by M Moser Associates
Located in the repurposed St James Power Station, the 4-story high Turbine Hall serves as a circulation hub for agile work and community learning. The campus-like masterplan balances existing heritage with new architectural pavilions for a human-centric workplace that supports people and new ideas.
3. ZOZO, Inc., Head Office Building, Japan, by HIroshi Nakamura & NAP, TAKENAKA CORPORATION
ZOZO operates the fashion shopping site “ZOZOTOWN” and prioritizes sales from external apparel makers. They aim to create a city-like office environment, allowing for a hybrid “new way of working” where employees come to the office twice a week and work remotely the rest of the time.
4. NIKE Icon Studios, USA, by Lorcan O’Herlihy Architects [LOHA]
Nike Icon Studios LA is the flagship studio housing the company’s Global Brand Imaging operations with a diverse range of photography and imaging capacity, including print, editorial, product, imagery, video, post-production, and editing, all under one roof. LOHA’s design combines art and science and is arranged in a highly efficient, in-house process within an existing 42k sq ft linear building.
5. Contempo, Hong Kong, by via architecture limited
Contempo is an architecture and interior firm in Hong Kong with a vibrant office space. The former industrial building was transformed into a hybrid work and social environment to foster a sense of community. The open work areas blend with various social spaces, featuring warm oak, galvanized steel, and calming colors.
6. COCONE Office, South Korea, by LESS
Due to the pandemic, the way people interact with each other and their work has undergone fundamental changes. To align with the new model of work, LESS has designed office layouts that have been revamped and rearranged. This involves moving towards open floor plans that support communication, sharing, and teamwork.
7. Publicis Groupe, USA, by Elkus Manfredi Architects
The new office in Boston for Publicis Groupe aims to inspire and motivate its 1,500 employees through a dynamic and flexible workplace designed for collaboration. Elkus Manfredi Architects guided employees in co-creating the office, with work neighborhoods offering a choice of environments and features chosen through collaboration between employees and designers. Cafés, terraces, and touch-down seating nooks promote movement and encourage creative interactions.
8. Stream Office, Hong Kong, by KRIS LIN INTERNATIONAL DESIGN
The office takes up an entire floor of a building with 360-degree views and good lighting. The designer explores the limits of structure and modeling with a bold, curved design that reopens the city skyline interface.
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
Get ready for a showcase of exceptional architectural photographers and photography talents as the 2023 edition of the Architecture Photography MasterPrize Awards officially opens!
In celebration, Part 1 of “Architectural Photographers to Look Forward To” will feature some of the most promising and emerging award-winning photographers. Whether you’re a photography enthusiast or a professional, don’t miss the chance to discover these artists in the coming year.
Open to submission from photographers worldwide, the Architecture Photography MasterPrize celebrates the masterminds who capture the allure of the built environment.
Rafael Gamo
Winning Architecture MasterPrize Photography of the Year title in 2 consecutive years, Rafael Gamo started his career as a photographer in Mexico City, following architecture school and studying at the Photo Art Center. He is also a graduate of the International Center of Photography in New York City. His work ranges from large-scale public works and cutting-edge buildings to intimate interiors and one-off installations.
James Brittain
James Brittain is an award-winning photographer working from studios in Montreal, Canada, and London, UK. Over 20 years of commissioned practice he’s established an international reputation for pictures grounded in the experience of architecture. His work is widely published in books and magazines around the world.
Hans Georg Esch
Hans Georg Esch was born in Neuwied in 1964, completed a classical training in photography and is active as an architectural photographer and filmmaker since 1989. Today he is one of the most important interpreters of the latest architecture and avant-grande design worldwide. In addition, he has developed a number of artistic concepts resulting in large series of images and books.
Yi-Hsien Lee (Ethan Lee)
Ethan Lee is a talented photographer who has earned recognition for his work in architecture photography. In 2022, he was awarded the Architecture Masterprize Photography of the Year title for his project ‘KAOHSIUNG MUSIC CENTER BY THE SEA’. In addition to his personal success, Ethan has also made a significant impact by helping multiple architectural and interior design studios secure awards through his remarkable photography abilities.
Ashok Sinha
Born in Calcutta, Ashok Sinha is an American filmmaker and photographer who shoots lifestyle and creative culture though a contemporary architectural lens. Before he pursued an art career based out of New York City, Ashok programmed telecom satellites for the U.S. government after graduating from Columbia University, left behind a second career in advertising, and eventually settled in Manhattan, where he now lives with his wife and daughter in a town house on the East Side.
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
The 7th Annual Architecture MasterPrize Awards Ceremony at the Guggenheim Museum Bilbao was a night to remember! With glitz, glamour, and architectural excellence, the ceremony welcomed over 200 guests from more than 70 firms worldwide. The ceremony celebrated some of the best of the architecture and design world, from emerging designers to established architects and photographers. Guests enjoyed a Michelin-starred dinner prepared by Chef, Josean Alija, and a live jazz performance, and the celebration went on well into the night.
Check out some of the pictures from the celebration and relive the best moments of the night!
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com
Continuing our series of the top Canadian architecture and interior firms. The AMP team has selected a diverse range of inspiring firms from across Canada, each with their own distinct design philosophies and techniques for crafting functional and visually stunning spaces.
For 8 years straight, the Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) architecture award has continued its mission in celebrating architects and interior designers worldwide for their achievements.
MGA | MICHAEL GREEN ARCHITECTURE
Based in Vancouver, Canada, MGA | MICHAEL GREEN ARCHITECTURE is one of the most internationally recognized architecture firms in Canada. Founded in 2012 by Michael Green, who saw the impact that the construction industry was having on the environment, now Michael Green and Natalie Telewiak lead a team of talented and experienced architects, designers, and support staff, all united by a shared passion to learn from diverse communities, collaborate with peers, and contribute to a better built environment.
Photography: Josh Partee
Alain Carle Architecte
With 20 years of experience in the architecture industry in Montreal, Alain Carle’s approach is informed by his background as a teacher and researcher at the Université de Montréal’s School of Architecture. His firm’s emphasis on critical representation in the design process has resulted in consistent recognition and praise from the architectural community, particularly in the areas of residential and commercial architecture.
Photography: Raphael Thibodeau
Provencher_Roy
Provencher_Roy is an award-winning Canadian architectural firm known for its excellence in quality, design, and execution. Their unique studio model encourages creativity, collaboration, and analytical thinking, always prioritizing the best ideas. The team is dedicated to responsible interventions that enhance spaces and promote collective well-being, a vision shared by the founders.
Photography: David Boyer
ACDF Architecture
ACDF Architecture creates inspiring spaces that blend North American practicality with European flair. With a distinct and striking design language, sophisticated detailing and materials, ACDF’s work has earned a reputation for excellence in Quebec, Canada, and beyond. The 86-member team, with a flexible structure, handles a wide range of residential, commercial and institutional projects.
Photography: Courtesy of ACDF Architecture
Henriquez Partners Architects
Henriquez Architects specializes in large, complex mixed-use projects that aim to create beautiful buildings that foster inclusive and engaged communities. With over 50 years of experience, they have developed strong partnerships with developers, non-profits, and government agencies, allowing the firm to achieve meaningful collective objectives.
Photography: Ema Peter
5468796 Architecture
Founded in 2007 by Johanna Hurme, Sasa Radulovic and later joined by Colin Neufeld, 5468796 Architecture is a Winnipeg-based practice that promotes a collaborative approach among its 20 members. The firm is leading a new wave of contemporary architecture in Winnipeg.
Photography: James Brittain
BDP Quadrangle
BDP Quadrangle is one of Canada’s leading architecture, design and urbanism practices. Based in Toronto, Canada, their expertise spans designing for the full spectrum of the built environment including mixed-use, residential, workplace, retail, transit, media environments, education and health.
Photography: Scott Norsworthy
Group2 Architecture
Group2 Architecture is a co-creator of spaces that support, uplift and enrich. They value diversity and the well-being of future generations, fostering leadership in their staff both at work and in their communities. The studio is an inspiring space for creativity, exploration, and learning.
Photography: Ema Peter
CORE Architects Inc.
CORE Architects Inc. is a Toronto-based firm of architects and interior designers that stands out for its innovative and well-considered design solutions. Founding principals Babak Eslahjou, Charles Gane, and Deni Poletti guide the firm with a philosophy that emphasizes creativity, innovation, and sustainability.
Photography: Courtesy of CORE Architects Inc.
Atelier RZLBD
Photography: Borzu Talaie
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com
Home to some of the most talented and innovative architects and interior designers, Canada has multiple award-winning architecture firms that are sure to deliver stunning projects to the industry. From grand theatres to inspiring, flowy houses, in this Part 1, the AMP team has selected a handful of firms that are at the top of their game and have won many Architecture MasterPrize architecture award titles.
For 8 years straight, the Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) architecture award has continued its mission of celebrating architects and interior designers worldwide for their achievements.
Top Canadian Architecture and Interior Firms
Revery Architecture
Revery Architecture is a Vancouver-based architecture, interior design, and planning practice internationally recognized as a leader in community placemaking. The firm is committed to a design philosophy of Building Beyond Buildings that align meaningful architecture with broader community initiatives to shape inclusive, authentically responsive spaces that stimulate human interactions, engage the senses, improve quality of life, and bring joy.
Photography: Ema Peter
hcma
hcma designs buildings, brands, and shared experienced that connect people. The firm is multi-skilled, but driven by a shared purpose: to maximize positive impact. Furthermore, hcma is a Certified B Corporation that strives to be a force for good and works towards an economic system that benefits everyone.
Photography: Ema Peter
SHAPE Architecture
SHAPE Architecture is an award-winning architectural practice of architects and designers located in the heart of Vancouver, British Columbia. The firm was founded on the belief that their work as architects is central to building an engaging, humane and sustainable future.
Photography: Ema Peter
Diamond Schmitt
Diamond Schmitt Architects is an international architectural firm, with its headquarter in Toronto, that specializes in transformative, sustainable and socially responsible buildings. They create innovative designs inspired by local context, community, and history. Their designs can be seen all around the world.
Photography: Casey Dunn
Hariri Pontarini Architects
Hariri Pontarini Architects is a full-service Canadian firm dedicated to producing work of lasting value. The firm was founded by Siamak Hariri and David Pontarini in 1994. The team consists of 150 professionals who offer in-depth partner involvement through all stages of design. They also provide the breadth of building experience and technical expertise to rigorously oversee construction.
Photography: Ann Baggley
APPAREIL Architecture
Based in Montreal, APPAREIL Architecture designs architecture that is timeless, strongly inspired by its northern identity and context. Sustainability is imbued in their projects, ensuring their longevity and future-proofing.
Photography: Félix Michaud
DUBBELDAM INC. ARCHITECTURE + DESIGN
DUBBELDAM Architecture + Design is a Toronto based multi-disciplinary design studio recognized for creating innovative and environmentally responsible design solutions that are timeless and uniquely designed for each client and context. Founded by architect Heather Dubbeldam, the studio has grown to include a team of architects and designers from different backgrounds and disciplines.
Photography: Riley Snelling
Lemay
Lemay is a team of architects, designers, leaders, and change makers creating meaningful spaces for people and their communities. Based in Montreal, the firm strive to design spaces that improve the natural environment, create value for the business and communities they serve.
Photography: Stephane Groleau
Continue to Part 2 – Top Canadian Architecture and Interior Firms You Will Love
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com
Thanks to these inspiring architects who embrace surrounding nature, these 10 extraordinary homes have been created in some of the most breathtaking locations on earth. Their vision for taking advantage of the landscape and understanding its nature has earned them winning titles in the architecture award programs of the Architecture MasterPrize.
Staying true to its mission, the Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) architecture award has paid tribute to architects and interior designers who make the impossible possible for 8 consecutive years.
SUSPENSION HOUSE by Fougeron Architecture
Suspended between two beautiful California hills, this remodel spans a creek and boasts a waterfall in the backyard. An inserted steel frame anchors the home to the hillsides allowing the team to remove supporting columns from within the creek bed. The minimal glass volumes steeped in the surrounding beauty feel more expansive than ever and create an experience of being part of nature and humbled by it.
Photography: Joe Fletcher
ROLO by Alain Carle Architecte
Situated on a steep slope, the property is characterized by large rocky outcrops and offers clear views of the horizon. Rather than dominating its surroundings, the project was developed to observe the landscape. The structural layout is simple and apparent, developing an “interior landscapes” whose proportion’s recall those of the surrounding trees. The verticality of the project is strategic, offering a sensitive response to preserve existing topographic land.
Photography: Félix Michaud
HEIRLOOM FARM STUDIO by Bushman Dreyfus Architects
Located in a unique sustainable community on a working farm in central Virginia, USA, the 565 SF structure is sited on the high point of the 33-acre lot, tucked between a pasture, an apple orchard, the existing cottage, and a future homesite. The simple, prismatic form of the building distills their minimalist barn inspirations into an essential and timeless vernacular. The sculptural form of the building is emphasized by the use of the same wood cladding on the roof and the walls.
Photography: Virginia Hamrick
LA HACIENDA JARDÍN by Práctica Arquitectura
One hour south of Mexico City, in the town of Tepoztlán, La Hacienda Jardín is arranged on a valley nestled within three rock formations. The project’s program was designed as a weekend residence that will become a retirement home in the future. As a result, the walls are blurred allowing the inhabitants to periodically modify the space. The home’s exterior, a roofed wall opened to the elements, is sober and serene in order to reclaim the essence of the town, framing the landscape and nature; the interior, a garden of endemic vegetation, preserves its magic and mystery for those who enter.
Photography: César Béjar
LES ROCHERS by la Shed Architecture
On the southernmost of the Magdalen Islands, you will find Les Rochers, with its choppy profile that mirrors the cliffs surrounding the Islands. These two houses with their sculptural silhouettes open up on the maritime landscape and offer a graphic and embodied vision of the traditional gable roof typology. Playing with the geometry, the architects propose a contemporary reinterpretation by breaking the proportions and creating asymmetric forms, a playful nod to the vernacular architecture of the Islands.
Photography: Maxime Brouillet
AUGUST MOON by SPAN Architecture
August Moon was once Brooke Astor’s private retreat. While paying homage to late architect R Patterson, the clients desire for modern sensibility and reverence for the environment, led to the biophilic-forward detailing. Locally sourced materials, a tribute. Upper floors are captured below an unfolding form pinned by the central hearth and stair. The zinc coated copper roof is the great gesture of the building. The lowest floor is nestled into the valley saddle providing coastline paths and a roof-lawn for living spaces. A glass walled master suite flies free, cantilevering into the tree line.
Photography: Robert Karosis
JUNEGRASS HOUSE by Messana O’Rorke
Designed to encompass the rugged mountains and respect the tradition of the neighborhood, the Junegrass house contains architectural details that feel distinctly modern. With the community design guidelines constraints, Messana O’Rorke designed a home that didn’t compromise their meticulous approach. The residence is broken into four volumes connected by glass bridges. The house’s exterior is stained cedar and stone. The interior paired with the exterior lends to an alternating rhythm of modern design, resulting in a house graced with contemporary beauty.
Photography: Tuck Fauntleroy
HIGH DESERT RETREAT by Aidlin Darling Design
Sited on a rocky desert plateau, this home is tightly nestled within a constellation of boulders. The brief was simple: create a modest home that didn’t remove a single Pinyon tree, embraced the desert climate, and framed the dynamic vistas. The home’s diagram is a triptych of elements: a floating roof plane, a collection of wooden volumes, and two concrete anchor walls. The home is a simple framing device to observe the dynamic surrounding terrain. The structure is quiet and crisp in its geometry, intentionally contrasting the desert forms and low to the ground to minimize its presence.
Photography: Adam Rouse
KASTELAZ HOF by Peter Pichler Architecture
Among valleys and vineyards lies Kastelaz Hof, a minimal concrete rural villa boasting 360-degree views of the surrounding Alpine scene. The ribbon-like structure merges seamlessly with the forestry scenery creating a flowing and harmonious transition within the landscape.
Photography: Gustav Willeit
THE POLISH FARMHOUSE by BXB Studio Bogusław Barnaś
The Polish Farmhouse is a transformation of a typical rural homestead into a modern residential manor. In the place of five existing farm buildings due for demolition, the team proposed five contemporary Farmhouses. The newly designed forms have a unique shape which results from the reference to the existing farm layout, terrain, view axes, functional needs, division into residential zones and the location of trees.
Photography: Rafał Barnaś
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com
Attracting male and female architectural photographers in the field of architecture and interior design from 46 countries worldwide, the Architecture Photography MasterPrize celebrates the masterminds who capture the allure of the built environment.
The Architecture MasterPrize (AMP) architecture award pays tribute to the architects and designers who make the impossible possible. But, more often than not, a project requires someone who can capture the essence and beauty of each site through their lens. This is when the AMP award winning photographers come in, with their unique ability to bring each creation to life.
These 9 female architectural photographers are sure to make an impact in 2023 with their authenticity and unique perspective.
1. Ema Peter
Besides being a juror for the Architecture Photography MasterPrize, in the past 12 years, Ema has works with some of the most prestigious architectural, interior design and engineering firms in North America. Her photography has helped many of these firms reach award-winning status.
2. Ruth Maria
Ruth Maria is an Irish photographer and art director, who has travelled quite a bit throughout her life and it is a big part of who she is. With over 15 years experience in graphic design, branding and art direction both in Ireland and abroad, she brings a unique perspective to every project having worked with a diverse range of brands, people and companies from all over the world. She is published regularly in notable magazines and newspapers in Ireland and abroad principally for her interiors photography. Ruth Maria joined the Architecture Photography MasterPrize jury panel in 2021.
3. Austin Irving
Born and raised in New York City, Austin Irving is an award winning visual artist who works exclusively with large format analog photography. Irving graduated cum laude with a BFA from the Department of Photography and Imaging at NYU’s TISCH School Of The Arts in 2006.
Irving is based in Los Angeles where she lives with her husband and her dog, Kodak.
4. Angie McMonigal
Angie is a Chicago-based photographer, focusing on the various aspects of architecture photography. Her interest in architecture began with her fascination for big cities; their soaring skyscrapers, unique and varied design and general diversity compared to the small Wisconsin town where she grew up in.
Drawing from the precision required from her science background (molecular biology, microbiology, virology), much of her work focuses on details of the built environment, resulting in bold yet elegant images.
5. Ramona Balaban
Born in 1984, Ramona Elena Balaban lives in Como, Italy with her husband Riccardo and their two sons Tommaso and Edoardo. She studied Law and was a member of the Restorative Justice and Criminal Mediation Studies Centre at the University of Insubria. In 2017 she realized that her path was a different one and abandoned the university dedicating herself professionally, as a self-taught photographer, to interior, architecture and portrait photography.
6. Francesca Pompei
Francesca Pompei, graduated with Honour in Philosophy, is a Rome based professional photographer focused on arts and architectural images. Her work has been awarded internationally and exhibited widely in museums and photo festivals.
7. Lesley MacGregor
MacGregor’s photography stems from a love of modern art and architecture. Their minimalism, geometry, and luminance drive her interpretation of the world and the subjects she choose to photograph. She focuses on fine art photography, using black and white photography which provides many opportunities to translate the world to a minimal, geometric vision. However, as some photographs demand color to accentuate their essential lines, she tends to use desaturated and tonally minimal color, believing it adds depth and emotion in a way that is different from black and white.
8. Sara Rawlinson
Using her camera to create memories of moments rather than recording specific details, she makes photos with intentional movement with an ephemeral and painterly aesthetic. Her work evokes the essence of a subject by leaning towards the ‘significant form’ idea from the 1920s Bloomsbury Group’s Clive Bell – that a good work of art is so defined by its ability to provoke ‘aesthetic emotion’ in the viewer and has little, if anything, to do with subject identification or representation. Her work has been shortlisted for several international awards and is held in private collections around the world.
9. Annette LeMay Burke
Annette LeMay Burke is a photographic artist and Northern California native who lives in the heart of Silicon Valley. A longtime observer of the evolution of the western landscape, Burke’s work is about connection, especially in relationship to the land and place. She is interested in how our environment changes over time and the telltale artifacts — both tangible and temporal — that are left behind. She explores metaphorical clues in the landscape as well as her personal connections to the west. She also examines how technology links us to each other via its idiosyncratic presence in the landscape.
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com
The AMP 2022 winners have truly outdone themselves with these innovative and beautifully executed, remarkable renovation projects. From modernizing historic buildings to creating functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces, these 9 projects showcase the incredible talent and dedication of the winners.
9 Award-Winning Remarkable Renovation Projects that Exemplify Exceptional Design and Craftsmanship
1. SANTIAGO CARBONELL FOUNDATION MUSEUM by Miguel Concha Arquitectura
The museum is a testimony of how to rethink historic buildings and recover colonial architecture that has deteriorated or been abandoned for different reasons to open it to the city, with the sole purpose of providing spaces where the population can approach to art and reflection, where it is possible to reconcile the modern and the historical, the contemporary and the classic, the empty and the occupied, the abandoned and the used. The Santiago Carbonell Foundation Museum Building seeks to bring art closer to the general population.
2. FAUST HAUS by Aidlin Darling Design
Originally built in 1878 in the Queen Anne style, this historic Victorian home was structurally upgraded, lovingly restored, and reincarnated to transform into Faust winery’s first ever tasting venue. Every element was carefully implemented to ensure the soul of the building was preserved, while infusing the design with an open modern sensibility. Conceptually, the staircase serves as a primary design element. As the palette transitions from one of dark opulence to bright simplicity, it represents the transcendence of the winery’s namesake: Faust, the protagonist of Goethe’s classic play.
3. HAUSER & WIRTH MENORCA by Laplace
Hauser & Wirth Menorca is an art center on the restored 18th-century outbuildings of a decommissioned naval hospital. Located on Illa del Rei, an island off Mahon harbour, the center intuitively integrates architecture, art and nature in its 1,500 square meters. Laplace has sensitively repurposed the existing historic outbuildings into an inspiring environment which enhances the history and naval qualities of the building. The project comprises a building with eight galleries, accessible from a central patio, and the Cantina building, where the restaurant and gallery shop are found.
4. SPITALFIELDS HOUSE by Common Ground Workshop
The project had a highly challenging brief that called for the extensive renovation and extension of a mundane two-up-two-down end-of-terrace property, located in Central London, to almost double the usable floor area of the host building. The resulting building simultaneously provides a fully-functioning family home with extensive open plan family space over multiple levels, and a haven for relaxation, calm repose and prayer, all with a highly minimalist aesthetic that would need to remain fully clutter free in use and operation. Phase 1 works were undertaken by ‘Studio Idealyc’
5. ANCESTRAL CHURCH OF FRAIÃO by Nuno Ferreira Capa | arquitectura e design
This project is an intervention of analysis and decision: analysis of former interventions and decision of tracing a new path by subtracting/aggregating distinctive elements in a formal symbiosis of significance, scale and materials. The subtraction of layers brings the stone back to the surface –solemn act of the beginning of works. This return to original expression led to a contemporary intervention on elements that couldn´t be changed: as so, the aggregation of a steel skin patina -Corten- in the bell tower and in the eastern/southern elevation volumes conferring maturation over the year
6. BAJÍO 307 by BRAG arquitectos
Bajío 307 is a residential complex of 82 apartments located in Mexico City. The main challenge was to work with an early 20th century house was restored and it was decided that it would house the access and common areas as the lobby, library, cafeteria, gym, swimming pool and bar. From there, the project was resolved through a longitudinal compositional axis in the center of the lot; two volumes are distributed among seven-level volumes each one. The green walls were designed as a series of openings and ramparts that strategically generate natural lighting and ventilation inside the apartments.
7. RENOVATION AND RECONSTRUCTION OF THE LANDMARK TUEBINGEN DISTRICT COURT by Dannien Roller Architekten + Partner
Metamorphosis of an Imperial Military Building into the Tübingen District Court Between 2018 and 2021, Dannien Roller + Architekten implemented both the extensive renovation of the severely damaged state-owned chamber building in Schellingstraße and its functional and symbolic transformation into a modern place of jurisdiction. The careful confrontation and dialogue between the original and the deliberately sparse new design provides a convincing path to the building’s new identity and dignity as a district court.
8. RURAL LOUNGE OF DABIE MOUNTAIN by Homme Architects
Located in Nanwanggang Village, Xinyang City, the site consists of two parts – the former courtyard of township government and its adjacent grain reserve depot, which are out of service for years. The project aimed to activate its values in the new era for village stepping into a modern rural life, while preserving and revealing their original architectural appearances. The planning strategy followed the original texture and preserved the spatial scale. The site was naturally divided into clustered plazas with public/semi-public/private characteristics.
9. THE HAMLIN SCHOOL by Mark Cavagnero Associates
The Hamlin School has educated girls to “meet the challenges of their time” for over 127 years. Comprised of 3 separate buildings stepping 65’ down a slope, the campus suffered from circulation challenges. The 3 buildings, constructed during 3 different eras, were disconnected from one another, and not designed to support the school’s modern pedagogy. The renovation/expansion project clarified the circulation and unified the campus. The approach stacked a tall gymnasium above an arts space in the center of the site, allowing classrooms to be north facing with large windows and views.
About Architecture MasterPrize(AMP)
The mission of the AMP is to advance the appreciation of quality architectural design worldwide. Celebrating creativity and innovation in the fields of architecture, landscape architecture, interior design, product design and architectural photography, the prize is open to submissions worldwide, accepting entries from architects all around the globe.
Winners are selected by the esteemed jury of architects and leaders in the architecture world and will receive the AMP trophy and extensive publicity showcasing their designs to a worldwide audience, plus more.
architectureprize.com