Archiol Competitions just announced the results of their Sustainability Essay Contest, and coming in first place is second-year School of Architecture and Planning student Thien Nguyen.
With mentoring from associate professors Patricia Andrasik and Jason Montgomery, Thien wrote his essay titled, To Build Within the Built Environment. In it, he, “examines the history and importance of sustainable architecture, starting with the history since ancient humans began practicing architecture.”
“In my essay, I explained in some detail the importance of reducing carbon emissions and to design and construct buildings that work with the site and reduce damage. I used Frank Lloyd Wright and Bob Berkebile as the leaders of True Sustainable Design; together, they figured that working with the site would be better for the environment. I then explained how in the present, we have technologies such as the 2030 Palette. I also speak on how it is the duty of the architect to implement eco-friendly designs during the planning stage. Utilizing natural vegetation, natural lighting or water conservation are easy eco-friendly designs. My paper spends a good portion explaining how not just the architects are responsible, but the contractors are too. Construction itself is quite damaging and actually is the biggest carbon emitting category, from the machines used to the equipment. My final topic was how urban planning can be utilized to pave a path for a more sustainable future.”
The Jury’s comments describe Thien’s essay as, “... well-organized, with a clear introduction, body, and conclusion, demonstrat[ing] a solid understanding of sustainable architecture, its historical context, and contemporary issues.”
Archiol Competitions was created with the goal to give practicing and new architects a platform to put their work out there and transform their ideas into reality. They do several competitions a year with a wide range of topics within the architectural realm. Anyone is encouraged to submit works for their .