Acoustics
Interior design

Architecture Awards: How to Win?

Pascal van Dort
June 16, 2022

Are you interested to know what defines award-winning architecture? Then you've come to the right place. We take you through how architecture has changed over time, and how the World Architecture Community evaluates award-winning designs.

architectural-design

Architecture and Design from Ancient Times to Nowadays 

From ancient Greece and Rome, we see how humans designed and constructed geometric structures. Archaeologists have always been amazed by how ancient buildings reflect nature and the constellations. They have also been amazed by how these buildings create perfect harmony with the world and its shapes. In ancient Egypt, the monumental pyramids, temples, and shrines are the perfect result of great engineering. 

However, the ancient Egyptians didn't have many options for materials and equipment. This led to them using sun-baked mud, granite, and limestones to build their buildings and monuments. As we look at the evolution of architecture, we can see how new movements are built on top of the old ones and adapted to changing needs.  

In ancient times, architecture was designed to reflect immense pride, heroic representation, and their powerful position. Nowadays, architecture has a human-centric approach with a focus on well-being.  

The design of a building reflects the people who will be using it. Schools need to have an inspiring and comfortable learning environment. Restaurants should have a calm and modern atmosphere. Offices should be creative and productive spaces. 

We would like to recognize the architects around the globe for their challenging work and how it has a positive impact on society. Here, we explore the criteria needs to have to win a national award or an international architectural competition, such as the prestigious RIBA award. 

Architecture is really about well-being. I think that people want to feel good in a space ... On the one hand, it's about shelter, but it's also about pleasure.

Zaha Hadid

How to Get Award-Winning Architecture? 

According to World Architecture Community, architecture and interior design are equivalent and should be viewed from a holistic point of view. The rapidly changing technology and conditions in everyday life are forcing tomorrow's design and architecture to rethink the boundaries of exterior and interior design. 

Most architectural awards require us to think of more than just the aesthetics of a building. The World Architecture Community truly stresses the importance of fulfilling the benefit of productivity, sustainability, and community. Below we listed down four major criteria for award-winning architecture. 

1. Pristine Quality Level 

The architecture and design of a building are judged on their quality. This means that the design and architecture must be able to provide high-quality services to the community it is located in. 

With quality, we also imply artistic design excellence. The exercise is to have a great balance of style, comfort, and top-grade finishing. Artistic interior design aims to create elegant, high-quality, and comfortable spaces that inspire. Therefore, it is crucial to pair interior design with great acoustic solutions. 

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Rockfon Mono Acoustics used in Kaisa House, Helsinki University Main Library 

2. Technologies Advancement  

Technology is always changing, and this affects the way we live. Architecture should always be looking forward, embracing modern technologies and changes in social trends and demographics. Therefore, projects will be judged on their understanding of the existing practices and how to improve them.  

There are two types of impacts: short-term and long-term. The environmental, material, social, and professional impacts are all measured to see the effects. 

3. Productivity and Climate-Consciousness 

The award emphasises the human-centric approach, while the projects need to consider productivity and the climate in the interior environment. It encounters both the physical spacing, noise absorption, and indoor climate as it contributes to the well-being of people. 

The architecture of workplaces should be designed in a way that makes people more efficient and productive. The environment should also be more comfortable to foster well-being. 

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Rockfon Color-all used in Stanley Milner Library, Alberta, Canada 

4. Problem-Solving Innovations 

When designing something, it is important to think about how it can be made more comfortable, productive, or practical. This way, the design can solve problems. 

The innovation is a lot more powerful if it contributes to a solution. And it will have the benefit of the wow-effect as people will get surprised by the outcome. 

When choosing a project to enter the contest, it is important to think about how it meets the following criteria: does it have creative elements? Is the structure prize-worthy? Or does it enable practical and durable solutions that overcome challenges to contribute to a circular economy? 

Wow! Stunning Design Examples to Get Inspired 

You will find the award-winning design in many shapes and sizes. We have gathered some of the winners and tried to figure out why they are award-winning architecture. 

The Word, National Centre for the Written Word

Rockfon® Mono® Acoustic seamless ceiling system was installed to meet the aesthetic and acoustic requirements for the project. As a result, the project won the prestigious Public Sector Interiors Project of the Year award in the 2016 Mixology North Awards. The Word is designed to be South Shields’ gateway to cultural, social, and business knowledge, and to be exciting.

 

The Word,United Kingdom,South Shields,1.100m²,Steve Dickson,Senior Director at Faulkner Browns Architects,Daniel Reilly at Reilly Ceiling and Drywall,Ben Clarkson,Group Photographer for Bowmer and Kirkland,ROCKFON® Mono® Acoustic

Helsinki Central Library Oodi

In the heart of Helsinki, on Kansalaistori Square, is the Finns' new, readers’ haven: the Oodi Library. From the top floor - also called 'the book sky' - visitors get a prime view of the city and the nearby park. Oodi, which means ‘Ode,’ is an innovative space for book lovers, events, and multifaceted activities. In 2019 Oodi won the world's best new library international award.  

FI, Helsinki Central Library Oodi, Helsinki, ALA Architects, Leisure, Rockfon Mono Acoustic, TE-edge, 1200x1200, White, Library

The Arboretum, Hørsholm, Denmark

The design for this unique research institute in Hørsholm, Denmark, has been awarded the Hørsholm commune’s yearly architectural prize. Rockfon Blanka® helped create a natural building that truly engages the surrounding nature outside. The sleek, matt white ceiling harmonises well with the natural materials and does not disrupt from the overall design. 

DK, Arboretet, Hørsholm, Claus Francke ApS, School, Rockfon Blanka, X edge, 1200x300, White

Aha! Stately Design Is Founded on Great Materials 

Above we have seen how award-winning design is more than artistic expressions. When creative design embraces innovative acoustic solutions, the spaces can benefit from a great indoor climate. 

At Rockfon, you have a trustworthy and great partner that deliver materials that utilize the creative freedom from architects or designers. We are lucky to offer a beautiful range of modern materials in our acoustic design solutions. They are available in many different shapes, colours and can be adjusted to the settings.  

Whether you are renovating or building something new, Rockfon can provide a complete ceiling system. Not only are they easy to install and durable, but they make your design feel as good as it looks. 

Sounds beautiful?  

Contact our local sales representative to work with us.