The Winners!
MATERIAL MATTERS ESSAY
First Prize Winners
Nikitha Madhavan & Preksha Udupa
India
The duo’s journey began as classmates and friends navigating the trials of architecture school. United by curiosity and a shared passion for expressing ideas, their conversations often unfolded over cups of tea, weaving through arts, architecture, and culture. Bonded by a love for reading and writing, they found common ground in exploring architectural journalism. They have made a continuous effort to share their ideas and perspectives through academic essays, blogs, and research work. Alongside finding joy in writing, they aspire to spark meaningful dialogues that highlight the intersections of design, heritage, and cultural narratives.



Introduction
Our journey began as classmates and friends navigating the trials of architecture school. United by curiosity and a shared passion for expressing ideas, our conversations often unfolded over cups of tea, weaving through arts, architecture and culture. Bonded by a love for reading and writing, we found a common ground in exploring architectural journalism. We have made a continuous attempt in sharing our ideas and perspectives through academic essays, blogs and research work. Alongside finding joy in writing, we aspire to spark meaningful dialogues that highlight the intersections of design, heritage, and cultural narratives.
We believe materiality in architecture holds immense power—not only in shaping spaces but also in influencing communities. The introduction of new materials can drive paradigm shifts in architectural thinking, and this idea inspired us throughout the essay. We were drawn to explore how materials transcend their physical properties, becoming catalysts for cultural, social, and environmental change. It felt like a calling, as if the universe was handing us the perfect script to explore the unspoken voice of the materials around us. This competition felt like the perfect platform to delve deeper into these narratives.
Essay Concept
The essay is a cinematic journey through time, where materials play the protagonists. It begins with ancient stones whispering tales of forgotten kingdoms, moves to the elegance of marble shaping renaissance beauty, and crescendos into futuristic innovations like self-healing concrete and solar glass. The essay explores the deep connection between materials and architecture, highlighting how materials shape not only the physical form of spaces but also our sensory and emotional experiences. It traces the evolution of materials from ancient stone and wood to modern innovations like metal and glass, illustrating their influence on architectural design and cultural narratives. The essay emphasises material alchemy, where combining materials creates new possibilities, and examines the growing focus on sustainability in architecture. Ultimately, it underscores how materials impact both architecture and human experience through their sensory qualities and environmental significance.
The decision to explore materials in architecture stemmed from the belief that materials do more than just construct spaces; they shape our experiences, evoke emotions, and carry cultural significance. We were particularly drawn to the idea of how materials are intertwined with human interaction, going beyond their technical properties to influence the way we feel and engage with the built environment. This perspective led us to examine the sensory impact of materials and how they tell stories, connect with history, and evolve with time, ultimately guiding architectural design and cultural narratives.
Architectural Insights
Our essay addresses the role of materials in shaping the future of architectural design by highlighting how materials are central to innovation and sustainability in architecture. It explores the evolution of materials from ancient times to modern innovations like nanomaterials and self-healing concrete, showcasing how these advances push the boundaries of design. The essay also emphasizes how materials are not just about form and function but are key to creating responsive, energy-efficient, and environmentally sustainable buildings. By listening to the "whispers" of materials, architects can create spaces that adapt to human needs while minimizing their impact on the planet, paving the way for a more resilient and harmonious built environment.
several projects and material innovations influenced the direction of our essay. The use of iron and steel in iconic structures like the Eiffel Tower and colonial-era buildings in India, such as the Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj Terminus, was a key example of how materials revolutionized architectural forms in the 19th century. The introduction of glass, particularly in the Crystal Palace in London, inspired my exploration of transparency and light in modern design. Additionally, contemporary innovations like self-healing concrete and the use of bamboo in sustainable architecture, such as in Bijoy Jain’s work, provided insight into how materials are being reimagined for the future. These examples highlight the constant evolution of materials and their transformative role in architectural design.
Sustainability and Technology
Our essay contributes to the discourse on sustainable design by highlighting how materials not only shape architectural forms but also play a crucial role in promoting environmental responsibility. We explore how traditional materials like mud and bamboo, which have long been used in sustainable architecture, are being reimagined in modern contexts. These materials offer eco-friendly alternatives to concrete and steel, reducing the carbon footprint of buildings. Additionally, we discuss cutting-edge innovations such as self-healing concrete, nanomaterials, and transparent solar panels, which promise to revolutionize the way we think about sustainability in architecture. By addressing both traditional and contemporary material practices, the essay underscores the importance of integrating sustainability and technology in shaping the future of the built environment.
, the materials we discussed have significant potential to transform architectural practices. Traditional materials like bamboo, mud, and stone, when reimagined and integrated with modern techniques, offer sustainable alternatives that reduce environmental impact. At the same time, innovations like self-healing concrete, nanomaterials, and transparent solar panels provide opportunities for smarter, more responsive buildings that adapt to their environments and needs. These materials not only promise greater sustainability but also enable architects to explore new forms, structures, and design possibilities. By embracing these materials, architectural practices can evolve towards more eco-conscious, adaptive, and innovative solutions, ultimately reshaping how we build and inhabit spaces.
Cultural and Social Perspectives
Cultural, historical, and social factors deeply influence the use of materials in architecture, shaping both their practical and symbolic roles. Early materials like stone and clay were chosen for their durability and spiritual significance, reflecting the power and permanence desired by ancient civilizations. Cultural beliefs, such as Japan's respect for nature in wooden Minka homes or India's intricate artistry in stone and wood havelis, further imbue materials with meaning. Socially, modern materials like steel, glass, and concrete symbolize progress and strength, as seen in colonial-era structures and contemporary Indian skyscrapers. Ultimately, materials are not just functional; they reflect societal values, identity, and aspirations, shaping both the built environment and the experiences within it.
the essay emphasizes how materials profoundly influence our sensory experiences within built environments. It explores how materials such as stone, wood, and concrete contribute not only to the physical structure of buildings but also shape our emotional and sensory connections to these spaces. For instance, the coolness of marble in the Taj Mahal, the acoustics of stone in the Gol Gumbaz, and the tactile warmth of wood in Japanese Minka homes all engage multiple senses, transforming architectural spaces into immersive experiences. The essay highlights that materials go beyond their technical properties, becoming integral to how we perceive, interact with, and remember the spaces we inhabit.
Creative Process
Our writing process began with brainstorming ideas, which ultimately led us to explore materials beyond their technical aspects. We aimed to understand how materials integrate with architecture and the narratives that emerge as a result. From the dawn of civilization, where materials were simple assemblages, to the present day with innovations like nanomaterials, we traced this journey briefly yet profoundly, using the lens of time to explore how materials and architecture have evolved together. We examined how human interactions with materials shape both the built environment and daily life. The preliminary draft was more of a technical outline, mapping out the direction we wanted to take. However, the final draft took a complete turn, adopting a storytelling approach to convey the idea that materials are far more than just technical details—they are integral to the narratives of our built world.
The primary challenge was narrowing down the narrative, as the scope of materials is incredibly vast. However, the breakthrough we encountered while developing the essay was understanding how vital materials are in shaping sensory experiences. Viewing this relationship through the lens of time revealed how human evolution has been intertwined with material innovations. It also highlighted an interesting insight: by altering materials, we can subtly influence human experiences and evoke desired responses, requiring only minor changes in architecture. Materials, it turns out, are the true markers of paradigm shifts, while our focus has traditionally been on design ideologies.
Inspirations and Challenges
What inspired us the most was the idea of materials as storytellers. They are like the protagonists of a drama, shaped by time and place but evolving to meet the demands of the future. Researching their stories felt like peeling back the layers of a classic love tale; every revelation was a spark of wonder. The idea that materials do more than just create spaces—they craft experiences, form memories, and stay with us as stories—was the primary inspiration. As architects, we often focus on the technical aspects of materials—such as their length, width, and area—yet we rarely consider how these physical dimensions transcend their material properties. They become part of our memories, shaping our daily experiences in ways that go beyond mere functionality. Exploring this ethereal connection with materials became the foundation of our essay.
The major challenge was to narrow down the narration. The world of materials is a rabbit hole but we had only so many words at disposal, so we had to focus our exploration through the lens of ‘time.’ This approach allowed us to examine how materials have shaped architectural narratives across different eras and how each new material has subtly driven paradigm shifts in design. It also helped us understand how life unfolds around these shifts, influencing the way spaces are experienced and used.
Reflections on Winning
This platform allowed us to refine our raw ideas and transform them into a piece of writing that is truly meaningful to us. We thoroughly enjoy the process of channelling scattered thoughts into a cohesive narrative, and winning the Material Matters Essay Competition feels like an important milestone in that journey. Having our work recognized and shared with an audience that appreciates and values similar ideas is incredibly rewarding. Moreover, this recognition is not just an award, it is the start of a new chapter. It is the promise of more stories, more challenges, and, above all, more dreams to turn into reality. We cannot wait to see what the next scene holds.
This recognition charged our aspiration to spark meaningful dialogues at the intersection of design, heritage, and cultural narratives. It encourages us to continue exploring untold stories and amplifying voices that shape and enrich the architectural discourse.
Second Prize Winners
Tawisha Dixit, Satyali Singh & Kanwar Rudder Partap Singh
India
They are a team of three architecture students—Tawisha Dixit, Satyali Singh, and Kanwar Rudder Partap Singh—currently in their third year, sixth semester of the Bachelor of Architecture program at Amity School of Architecture and Planning. Throughout their academic journey, they have developed a strong foundation in architectural design, sustainability, and material exploration. Each member brings a unique perspective to the team: Tawisha Dixit focuses on sustainable material practices, Satyali Singh specializes in architectural storytelling, and Kanwar Rudder Partap Singh is passionate about integrating technology into design. Their collaboration reflects a shared commitment to rethinking materiality in architecture.




Introduction
We are a team of three architecture students—Tawisha Dixit, Satyali Singh and Kanwar Rudder Partap Singh— currently in our third year, sixth semester of the Bachelor of Architecture program at Amity School of Architecture and Planning. Throughout our academic journey, we have developed a strong foundation in architectural design, sustainability, and material exploration. Each of us brings a unique perspective—Tawisha Dixit focuses on sustainable material practices, Satyali Singh specializes in architectural storytelling, and Kanwar Rudder Partap Singh is passionate about integrating technology into design. This collaboration reflects our shared commitment to rethinking materiality in architecture.
The competition’s emphasis on exploring materials as pivotal to architectural design resonated with our ongoing academic and personal interests. We saw this as a chance to delve deeper into the critical role materials play in shaping sustainable and culturally meaningful spaces.
Essay Concept
Our essay, titled The Dynamic Evolution of Materials in Architecture, examines how materials are more than just technical elements—they are cultural, historical, and technological bridges. We explored the evolution of materials from ancient practices to modern innovations like self-healing concrete and 3D printing, while highlighting their sustainability and role in shaping human experiences within spaces.
We were inspired by the potential of materials to address both environmental concerns and cultural relevance. Our research revealed its versatility, aligning with our goal to highlight materials that are not only functional but also contextually significant.
Architectural Insights
Our essay underscores that materials influence not just the structural and aesthetic aspects of architecture but also the functionality and sustainability of designs. By adopting innovations like self-healing concrete and advanced recycling techniques, architects can create spaces that are resilient, environmentally friendly, and culturally meaningful.
Yes, projects like the use of cross-laminated timber in high-rise buildings and advancements in nanotechnology-inspired materials were pivotal. These examples demonstrated how traditional materials can be reimagined through modern innovation to meet current architectural needs.
Sustainability and Technology
We explored how technologies like nanotechnology, smart materials, and 3D printing redefine material properties and applications, making them more sustainable and efficient. The essay advocates for a conscious approach to material selection, emphasizing lifecycle impacts and energy efficiency.
Absolutely. Innovations like self-healing concrete and 3D printing not only enhance durability and reduce waste but also open up new design possibilities. These materials represent the future of adaptive and sustainable architecture.
Cultural and Social Perspectives
Materials carry cultural and historical significance, reflecting the identity of a place. For example, ancient builders used locally available materials, a practice that today inspires us to value sustainability and community-based architecture.
we emphasized how materials influence sensory and emotional responses—textures, colors, and even their thermal properties affect how people experience a space. These aspects underscore the importance of materiality in creating comfortable and engaging environments.
Creative Process
We began with a brainstorming session to identify key themes, focusing on the evolution of materials and their role in sustainability and innovation. Extensive research followed, exploring examples and case studies. We divided the writing among the team, then iterated through drafts to ensure cohesion and depth.
The challenge was balancing technical details with broader cultural and environmental themes. A breakthrough came when we identified self-healing concrete as a unifying example of innovation, sustainability, and practicality, which anchored much of our discussion.
Inspirations and Challenges
The realization that materials are not just building blocks but narratives inspired us. They tell stories of innovation, sustainability, and culture, and exploring this connection was deeply rewarding.
Synthesizing the vast amount of information into a concise and engaging narrative was challenging. Regular team discussions and feedback helped us focus on the most impactful aspects.
Reflections on Winning
It’s an incredible honor to have our ideas acknowledged. This recognition validates our efforts and reinforces our commitment to exploring the intersections of tradition, innovation, and sustainability in architecture.
This achievement motivates us to delve deeper into material research and sustainable practices. It’s a stepping stone toward contributing meaningfully to the architectural field, both academically and professionally.
Third Prize Winners
Athina Azevedo
U.S.
Special mention
Aditya Shanbhag & Jimita Tejani
India
Aditya Shanbhag is a Mumbai-based architecture student in his final year at the Academy of Architecture. He is best described as a detail-oriented individual, passionate about his craft, and constantly seeking purpose in everything around him. His habit of exploring the world fuels his creativity and drives his lifelong journey of learning.
Jimita Tejani is currently in her second year of studying architecture at the Academy of Architecture. Beyond her academic journey, she is an introspective individual with a profound passion for reading, writing poetry, and capturing life's moments through photography. She firmly believes that life is too short for bland conversations and bad angles.



Honorable mention
Anoushka Gaur
Sanya Sharma & Suryanshi Dhiman
Cagla Karaca
Simay Karadogan
Calvin Seth Katimbo


Anoushka Gaur
India
Anoushka Gaur is a third-year architecture student with a passion for design and a strong commitment to contributing to the built environment. She is currently developing her expertise in design thinking, building science, and digital design tools. Anoushka seeks challenging opportunities to learn from experienced professionals and contribute to impactful projects that address contemporary architectural challenges.



Sanya Sharma & Suryanshi Dhiman
India
Sanya Sharma
Sanya Sharma is an architecture student at Chandigarh College of Architecture (CCA), passionate about exploring the intersections of design, storytelling, and travel. A voracious reader and an avid explorer, she finds inspiration in the diverse cultures, landscapes, and architectural marvels she encounters. For her, every journey is an opportunity to unravel the stories behind spaces and the people who inhabit them.
Suryanshi Dhiman
Suryanshi Dhiman is an architecture student at the esteemed Chandigarh College of Architecture, driven by a deep admiration for global art and culture. Her design philosophy is shaped by the intricate relationship between materiality and human psychology, focusing on crafting spaces that evoke emotional connections beyond mere functionality.
Cagla Karaca
Turkey


Simay Karadogan
Turkey
Simay Karadogan (born 2000, Mersin, Turkey) is an Istanbul-based architect specializing in design, technology, and sustainability. Graduating with honors from Mimar Sinan Fine Arts University in 2023, she focuses on BIM and parametric design, holding professional certifications that reflect her expertise in integrating technology into architecture.
Currently, she works on project-based projects such as art, curatorial, and exhibition projects in Istanbul, Turkey. Dedicated to exploring the intersection of design, art, and technology, Simay is committed to pushing creative boundaries and finding innovative solutions for contemporary challenges. She plans to pursue a Master's in digital technologies in architecture to further refine her skills and develop groundbreaking approaches to creating innovative art solutions that inspire and engage communities.


Calvin Seth Katimbo
Cyprus
Calvin Seth Katimbo is a fourth-year architecture student at the European University of Lefke in North Cyprus. Originally from Uganda, he is the third of four siblings.
Growing up in a close-knit family instilled in him resilience and creativity, qualities that fuel his passion for architecture. Calvin strives to design spaces that seamlessly integrate functionality and innovation.
During his time at university, Calvin has been recognized among the top 50 students and has gained practical experience through internships with a prestigious architectural firm in Cyprus. A significant milestone in his academic journey was being mentioned in the International Journal of Art and Design Education in an article titled Between Real and Fantasy by Lerzan Aras.
These accomplishments motivate him to continue learning and contributing to the field of architecture. Calvin is eager to merge diverse perspectives and create designs that leave a positive impact on communities.