Foreword
The Archiol Building Material Essay Competition was conceived with a noble purpose – to unravel the rich tapestry of building materials used in architecture. We sought to delve into their origins, delve into their durability, and explore their influence on architectural form and function. Through this competition, we aimed to celebrate the intrinsic value of these materials and the architects, builders, and visionaries who wield them to shape our built environment.
The response to this competition has been nothing short of remarkable. We received an array of insightful essays that showcased a deep understanding of the multifaceted world of building materials. Participants from all corners of the globe demonstrated their passion for architecture and their commitment to the pursuit of knowledge. The diversity of perspectives and the depth of research were truly inspiring.
As we unveil the results today, let us remember that this competition is not just about winners and losers. It is a celebration of the enduring curiosity that drives us to explore, learn, and innovate. It is a testament to the power of collective wisdom and the boundless potential of architecture to shape a better world.
Top 3
FIRST
Ankita Patanwadia
India
SECOND
Athulya Aby
India
THIRD
Pinru Zhu, Jun Zhao
U.S.
FIRST PRIZE WINNER
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Materials in Metamorphosis: A Sustainable Shift in Architecture
Ankita Patanwadia
India
JURY COMMENTS
“The essay presents an enlightening and comprehensive exploration into the world of building materials, touching upon their history, technical properties, sustainability considerations, and relevance in the evolving landscape of architecture. It succeeds in painting a vivid picture of the evolution of architectural materials, their transformative journey, and the pressing need for sustainability. One of its strengths lies in its detailed analysis of various materials, effectively providing readers with a well-rounded understanding. Some readers might find the extensive detail a bit overwhelming, but for those passionate about the subject, it's a treasure trove of information. The essay serves as an informative guide, urging architects to prioritize sustainable practices and materials that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible.”
SECOND PRIZE WINNER
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Bamboo Craftsmanship Of The Muthuvans of Kerala
Athulya Aby
India
JURY COMMENTS
“The essay offers a deep dive into a niche topic, blending cultural anthropology, architecture, and sustainability. Its strength lies in the rich details, the historical and cultural background, and the interplay between tradition and modern challenges. With some structural refinements and clearer explanations, it could engage a wider audience even more effectively.”
THIRD PRIZE WINNER
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FLAXibility: What if building surfaces were to be constituted of plants?
Pinru Zhu, Jun Zhao
U.S.
JURY COMMENTS
“The essay showcases an exciting and innovative take on an age-old material and its potential modern architectural applications. The research depth is commendable, as is the bridging of traditional methods with current technological advancements. However, to make the essay even stronger, the authors could consider elucidating more on the practical implications and challenges of integrating such materials into contemporary architectural practices. An exploration of cost, long-term durability, and maintenance of flax-based materials in real-world scenarios would provide a more comprehensive view of its applicability.”
SPECIAL MENTION
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JURY COMMENTS
Honorable Mention
Victoria Tyshchenko
Armenia
Shreya Deb Roy
India
Miral Rana
India
HONOURABLE MENTION
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Strawcrete: Building a Sustainable Future with Nature's Bounty
Victoria Tyshchenko
Armenia
JURY COMMENTS
“The essay provides a compelling case for the adoption of strawcrete in modern construction by expertly weaving its historical roots with its current applications and potential. It highlights the material's ecological, aesthetic, and practical advantages, while also nodding to its significance in cultural and historical contexts. The essay would benefit from more direct examples of contemporary structures utilizing strawcrete and perhaps a deeper dive into the challenges of using the material, as addressing potential downsides can give a more balanced view. Nevertheless, the essay serves as an insightful and informative piece that champions the merits of strawcrete as a forward-thinking solution to sustainable construction.”
HONOURABLE MENTION
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Enhancing Endurance and Visual Design
Shreya Deb Roy
India
JURY COMMENTS
“The essay offers a well-researched and comprehensive look into the role of building materials in architecture. It successfully bridges historical practices with contemporary trends and future possibilities. A bit more conciseness and diversification of examples would elevate it further.”
HONOURABLE MENTION
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The Re-Rise of Wood – Mass Timber Towers
Miral Rana
India
JURY COMMENTS
" The essay, "The Re-Rise of Wood – Mass Timber Towers," offers a nuanced and thorough exploration of the history, development, and potential future of mass timber in construction. The wide range of references indicates thorough research and a commitment to understanding the topic from multiple angles.”
HONOURABLE MENTION
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JURY COMMENTS
HONOURABLE MENTION
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JURY COMMENTS
Shortlisted Entries
Organizers
