Architecture competition "The Big Tiny Coffee House Challenge" Honorable mention - Rachel Fay and Olivia Green

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the winners of one of our Honorable mentions for the “The Big Tiny Coffee House Challenge” competition - Rachel Fay and Olivia Green from Australia!

Rachel Fay and Olivia Green from Australia

Cornerstore Design Office was established in February 2018. We are an interior architecture duo based in Sydney, Australia who are passionate about designing environments that are responsive to people and place. Our partnership grew out of a strong friendship that developed during the four years we spent working in an architecture practice in Sydney. Along with this we have also maintained a close relationship with the Built Environment Faculty at the University of New South Wales where we both are sessional tutors for the Bachelor of Interior Architecture degree.

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?

Our focus is on small-scale projects in both residential and commercial sectors. At present we are working on a workplace fit-out for a small family business and are commencing work on a heritage-listed residential project in Sydney’s Blue Mountains. Our approach to all projects is holistic, offering services in architecture, interiors and identity.

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

We see architecture as the opportunity to enrich the lives of the communities that inform it. Our belief is that architects have a great responsibility to design lasting built forms that consider human behaviours, local vernaculars and geographical context.

Why do you participate in architecture vision competitions?

We are thrilled by the opportunity of participating in architecture vision competitions as they encourage us to be forward thinking and conceptual, challenging the limiting parameters we face in our industry.

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 architecture vision competitions provides an opportunity to learn, upskill and apply knowledge to briefs that are pushing the boundaries beyond those that you would experience in the industry. It is also a wonderful opportunity to gain international exposure.