Architecture competition Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center 3rd prize winner

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the winner of the 3rd prize of our “Great Kemeri Bog Visitor Center” competition - Florent Sauvineau from France!

Florent Sauvineau from France

I graduated with honours in 2017 from the ENSA Lyon with a Master’s degree in Architecture. In 2015 I was a part of a student exchange program in Göteborg, Sweden, at CHALMERS University of Technology. I have worked across several design disciplines, including architecture, urban design and furniture design.

I have worked as a junior architect in both Paris and Lyon in leading architectural firms (AS.Architecture-Studio & AIA). I’m currently undertaking a new work experience in a top firm located in Bordeaux (Duncan Lewis) that focuses on synergy between architecture and landscape through conceptual and innovative projects.

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 company/ individuals have been involved?

I’ve primarily been involved in progressive and contemporary architectural practices that focus on every scale, including art installations at University in Lyon, urban development in Genova based on Renzo Piano’s “Blueprint” masterplan, office building refurbishment in Paris, and a 40,000 seat football stadium in Nantes.

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

My approach to architecture is inclusive. I do believe architecture is a complex process made out of economic, social, aesthetic, technical and environmental concerns. Thus, designing a building is not only a matter of light, space and materiality. It involves a cross disciplinary mind-set that helps developing designs through time and experimentation.

A new way of designing - such as computational design - is part of this experimentation in my practise. I do think this new conception tool helps designers to create spaces that move people, but also create a design continuum that weaves tradition with innovation.

Why do you participate in architecture vision competitions?

I participate in architecture vision competitions to compete with talented enthusiasts from all over the world. This particular mindset challenges your ability to develop conceptual approaches and strengthen your ability to communicate your proposal.

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

Participating in architectural competitions is a tough experience but you won’t regret it. Just do it, choose a topic that inspires you and design freely to pursue your research and ideas. This experience will give you the opportunity to turn your ideas into emblematic projects.