THIRD PRIZE WINNER!
Julia Sielska
Poland
I am an architecture student at the Wrocław University of Technology, where I earned my engineering degree in 2023. In addition, I study art history at the University of Wrocław. As part of my studies, I participated in design, construction and inventory internships. My greatest passion is art in general, including architecture. I have participated in several competitions in which my work has been recognised.
Interview with the Winner
What is your design philosophy?
In architecture, the connection between a space and its users is particularly important to me. Building an identity with the world around us is essential to human well-being. Cities often become increasingly oppressive places. We are surrounded by buildings every day, so it is crucial how they interact with us. When designing architecture, I try to consider people as part of a larger whole. Therefore, I attempt to take into account not only our needs, but also those of animals or nature.
I understand architectural design as a process of searching to find a space that functions as well
as possible, but also one in which we feel at ease. Its beauty lies in the fact that it combines logical solutions and assumptions with an artistic approach.
Can you briefly explain your understanding of the topic and the source of ideas?
The main thrust of the project was to exploit the correlation between human psychological wellbeing and nature in its various manifestations. Therefore, I decided to seek my inspiration directly from the processes and forms found in organisms. At first, I tried to find interesting phenomena among plants and animals, but eventually mushrooms became my main inspiration. I was interested in the aspect of their structure and how they transfer the weight of the cap to their stem. Over time, however,
I began to read more about mushrooms and the process of mycorrhiza. This gave me a wider perspective of their role in the environment, which I decided to translate into the language
of architecture. I tried to design a building that, in both a broader and narrower context, would implement the idea of symbiosis and its associated harmony.
When and how you were first introduced to architecture?
My first exposure to architecture was linked to my interest in art history. Trying to understand historical buildings, their structure or meaning enabled me to develop a whole new way
of understanding the space around me.
What does architecture mean to you?
I see architecture as something like a living organism that is forever growing and evolving. Some
of the changes occur involuntarily, others are influenced by us. As architectural designers, we should learn to adapt to these transformations, as well as to new user needs and changing external conditions.
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