The Winners!
SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
First Prize Winners
Xuefeng Li
China
I am a passionate architect with years of professional experience. Graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master's in Architecture, I have had the privilege of practicing my craft and honing my skills in the field.
FIRST PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
FIRST PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
Design Overview:
● Could you provide a brief description of your winning design? What were the key elements and concepts you incorporated? How did you prioritize and integrate sunlight into your design to create a transformative architectural space?
I firmly believe that architecture possesses the remarkable ability to positively impact our world, particularly in its capacity to provide intangible healing experiences. Currently, there are over 75,000,000 individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) worldwide, as reported by the CDC. Shockingly, 1 in every 100 children is diagnosed with this condition. Unfortunately, their needs are often overlooked, and it becomes crucial for us to raise awareness and extend our support to them. In response to this pressing issue, I have designed a small single-family house in upstate New York specifically tailored to accommodate a family with a child who has ASD. The primary objective of this design is to utilize sunlight as a transformative and therapeutic element.
The inspiration behind the design stems from the joyful and enchanting experience of blowing bubbles, which encapsulates the essence of wonder and delight in childhood. Incorporating this concept, the design features curved voids reminiscent of the shape of bubbles. These voids serve as light-capturing elements, allowing sunlight to penetrate the interior spaces and casting unique and captivating shadows.
By harnessing the power of sunlight, the design creates an environment that not only stimulates the senses but also provides a serene and calming atmosphere for individuals with ASD. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the house creates a dynamic and visually engaging experience, fostering a sense of tranquility and promoting emotional well-being.
Importance of Sunlight:
● How do you perceive the importance of sunlight in architectural design? What benefits does it bring to occupants and the overall atmosphere of a space? Did you encounter any challenges in maximizing the utilization of sunlight in your design, and how did you address them?
Louis Kahn beautifully captured the essence of sunlight in architecture with his quote, "I sense Light as the giver of all presences, and material as spent Light. What is made by Light casts a shadow, and the shadow belongs to Light." I firmly believe that sunlight breathes life into architectural spaces. It has the ability to create moments, evoke joy, excitement, and unexpectedness as it dynamically moves and interacts with the built environment. Understanding sunlight and harnessing its potential as a design element can be challenging. It requires a deep understanding of how sunlight impacts people's activities and experiences within a space. To address this, I took the initiative to visit a local ASD center and conducted interviews with workers there. This allowed me to gain valuable insights into the specific needs and sensitivities of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). By incorporating this knowledge, I was able to design spaces that not only optimize sunlight but also create a nurturing and inclusive environment for all occupants.
User Experience:
● How did you prioritize the well-being and comfort of the occupants in your design through the effective use of sunlight? Can you describe any specific spatial or experiential qualities created by the presence of natural light in your design?
Large windows flood the interior spaces with natural light, providing the child with ample sunlight exposure. Sunlight exposure has been shown to have a positive impact on children with ASD, improving mood, behaviour, and cognitive function. The natural light and shadow created by the unique shapes of the interior spaces is undefinable and constantly changing, adding a layer of interest and excitement to the environment for the child.
The design features a special game room that serves as a space for the child to engage in therapeutic activities. Research has shown that sensory-rich experiences can benefit children with ASD. The openings on the wall with stained glass can turn sunlight into interesting reflections and sensory colors throughout the day, creating an engaging and stimulating environment.
The design includes several other features to create a healing and inspiring environment for the child. For example, the materials used throughout the interior are selected for their calming and soothing properties, and the color palette is carefully chosen to create a sense of serenity and tranquility. The layout of the spaces provides clear circulation paths and areas designated for specific functions, such as relaxation, play, and therapy.
Inspiration and Research:
● Were there any architectural precedents or research studies that influenced your design process?
One particular architectural masterpiece that left a lasting impression on me was Ronchamp by Le Corbusier. I had the opportunity to visit this iconic structure, and its impact on my design thinking was profound.
The unique qualities of Ronchamp resonated deeply with me. The sculptural form of the building, the strategic placement of punctuations, the deliberate use of small openings, and the thoughtful application of painted colors on the interior walls all contributed to its remarkable presence. Witnessing these design elements firsthand sparked my imagination and fueled my creativity.
Future of Sunlight in Architecture:
● Based on your experience and insights, how do you envision the role of sunlight in architecture evolving in the future?
Indeed, sunlight will always remain a fundamental element in architecture as long as we have the sun. It is crucial for modern architects to embrace and cherish the natural gift of sunlight. In the midst of technological advancements and evolving design trends, it is essential to maintain a deep appreciation for the inherent benefits and beauty that sunlight brings to architectural spaces.
Personal Reflection:
● How has participating in this competition and winning affected your perspective on the importance of sunlight in architectural design?
It has affirmed that sunlight is not merely an aesthetic consideration but a vital element that significantly influences the overall experience and functionality of a space.
Through the process of conceptualizing and implementing my design, I delved deeper into understanding the profound impact of sunlight on human well-being, visual comfort, and energy efficiency. The competition allowed me to explore innovative strategies for maximizing the utilization of sunlight as a design device, while also considering the specific needs and sensitivities of the occupants.
Advice for Aspiring Architects:
● What advice would you give to aspiring architects or designers who are interested in exploring the integration of sunlight in their designs? Based on your experience, what are the key elements that make a design stand out in a competition of this nature?
For aspiring architects and designers interested in integrating sunlight into their designs, my advice is to cultivate an observant mindset, understand the societal context, embrace problem-solving, and learn from daily life. By paying attention to the interplay of light and shadow, considering the specific needs of the community, finding innovative solutions, and drawing inspiration from the smallest details, they can create designs that harness the transformative power of sunlight.
In a competition, a design stands out by clearly articulating its conceptual framework, showcasing innovation and creativity, paying attention to detail, emphasizing sustainability, and effectively communicating the design intent. By demonstrating a deep understanding of how sunlight enhances the spatial experience, pushing boundaries, considering technical aspects, prioritizing sustainability, and effectively presenting the design, they can make a lasting impression on the judges and viewers.
Second Prize Winners
Alberto Rossini
Italy
My name is Alberto Rossini and I'm from Italy. I’m a young architect graduated in 2022 at the Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio USI AAM in Switzerland (Mendrisio, CH) with the professors and architects Manuel e Francisco Aires Mateus.
SECOND PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
SECOND PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
Introduction:
● Can you please introduce yourself and share a bit about your background in architecture and/or design? What inspired you to participate in the Sunlight in Architecture 2023 Design Competition?
- My name is Alberto Rossini and I'm from Italy. I’m a young architect graduated in 2022 at the Accademia di Architettura di Mendrisio USI AAM in Switzerland (Mendrisio, CH) with the professors and architects Manuel e Francisco Aires Mateus.
This competition had permitted me to explore more the connection between architecture and light, which was one of the most important relation in my study career and still one of the point I’m researching more in my design process.
In general my design process is strictly connected to the inheritance of Portuguese architecture and the work of architect such as Alvaro Siza, Eduardo Souto de Moura , Menos e Mais and of course Aires Mateus.
Design Overview:
● Could you provide a brief description of your winning design? What were the key elements and concepts you incorporated? How did you prioritize and integrate sunlight into your design to create a transformative architectural space?
The project was born from the study of the concept of space as an environment for interaction between people: the first approach was to think of the internal distribution of the building not only as a functional environment but as a place of life and sharing.
Given this starting point it was very important for me to create a common space which can work as a central point for the whole building. We, as architects, tends to channel our design process into the best solution for the living spaces when we are asked to work on housing projects, but we have to take into account that one of the most important space in housing is the connection space (staircase, hallway, balcony, etc…) because it’s the first space that we experience entering this typology of architecture. With this statement I’ve started thinking of a way to give the circulation spaces as much light as possible, in order to ennoble them and create common spaces for the people living inside the building. For example the inner core, which is the distribution to each apartment, lives on the light that filters through the central atrium and the large staircase that winds through the heart of the building enjoys the zenithal light which reverberates from the central distribution core.
Importance of Sunlight:
● How do you perceive the importance of sunlight in architectural design? What benefits does it bring to occupants and the overall atmosphere of a space? Did you encounter any challenges in maximizing the utilization of sunlight in your design, and how did you address them?
Sunlight in architecture is very important; my design process is full of ways to understand and react to the link between architecture and every typology of light. In particular I’m deeply interested in how the light, entering in the building, can create not only illumination but can also sculpt the spaces. Simple forms in architecture are very hard to handle but with the correct use of light they can become interesting approach to think of new spaces. Sunlight has a lot of different uses but I’m very interested in the zenithal light which, depending on the different angulation and position of the sun, can bring to our architecture different ways of expression. In the design process of “A Palazzina in Edinburgh” I’ve explored the value of the sunlight that reverberates from the core of the building and enters the spaces, one by one. Imagine entering in the building to access your apartment: the first step you take inside you’re welcomed by a central atrium that spread a soft light, which starts to enhance every floor of the building you walk in; the difference between the light of the circulation system and the apartments; the difference lies in the type of light you face: the atrium enjoys a filtered and indirect light while the apartments, opening towards the outside and the city, enjoy direct and warm light, filtered only by the nature of the surrounding park.
User Experience:
● How did you prioritize the well-being and comfort of the occupants in your design through the effective use of sunlight? Can you describe any specific spatial or experiential qualities created by the presence of natural light in your design?
An empty space, even if it’s completely aseptic, can react to light. This concept is fundamental if we have to deal with sunlight; even if we design a complex space, full of additions and detail, it does not necessarily gain beauty or complexity once illuminated by natural light. Starting from simple gesture is the best way to approach an architecture design that has to consider light as one to the main topic.
Sunlight needs to be a way to better express the purity and beauty of a simple but deeply thought architecture space.
Inspiration and Research:
● Were there any architectural precedents or research studies that influenced your design process?
As I suggested before, my design process is influenced by Portuguese Architecture and their connection between shapes and light. Project such as Casa das Histórias Paula Rego by Eduardo Souto de Moura or the Sines Centre for Arts by Manuel e Francisco Aires Mateus have thought me so much about the relationship between light and architecture, not only in the forms of the architecture but also in their material; it’s very important to select the right material to build your architecture, also because your project may relate in different ways depending on the behavior of the material in natural light.
In addition to the Portuguese examples, while studying in Mendrisio I was able to observe the architecture of modern studios and their particular attention to the design of high quality housing architecture and this has given me a solid base to start off my own design process.
Future of Sunlight in Architecture:
● Based on your experience and insights, how do you envision the role of sunlight in architecture evolving in the future?
Many architects today do not fully consider the benefits that natural light can bring within the design process. The result is therefore that of relegating the contribution of natural light to a simple objective fact, present but not influential.
Modern design should therefore consider the potential of natural light among the first starting points in architectural design, thus allowing our buildings to enjoy generous spaces full of direct light during the hours of the day. By favoring this choice we will not only obtain quality spaces and architecture but we will also save money in the use of artificial light sources so as to limit the use of electricity and reduce light pollution in our inhabited centres.
Personal Reflection:
● How has participating in this competition and winning affected your perspective on the importance of sunlight in architectural design?
The interest in the theme of sunlight has allowed me to develop a new concept of living: we are used to think of the theme of housing as an effective method to create more and more spaces for living but we rarely stop to understand the value that good living can also be a necessary element to consider in architectural design. Thinking about the quality of space and its influence on social life can lead us to the discovery of a new way of doing architecture, more aware of constantly evolving needs and capable of evolving according to changes in society.
The desire to combine the design of light with the design of living spaces has allowed me to learn about and interpret new ways to rethink our conventional spaces, in ways that can also facilitate social relationships within a housing ensemble.
The result obtained certainly helped to encourage me in my research into the relationship between light and architecture, laying solid foundations for me to continue experimenting with ever more articulated forms and solutions.
Advice for Aspiring Architects:
● What advice would you give to aspiring architects or designers who are interested in exploring the integration of sunlight in their designs? Based on your experience, what are the key elements that make a design stand out in a competition of this nature?
The advice I can give to young architects and designers like me is to take a real problem or situation as a starting point from which to start to develop a "history" to solve with your own project. A central and decisive theme such as natural light is clearly indispensable for relating one's architecture to the places and contexts in which we design. More than materials and shapes, natural light is the real protagonist of our architectures: the peculiarities that the light takes on are decidedly different depending on the place where it is observed, the sunlight in Scotland will be decidedly less intense or warm than the sun in Sicily. Each latitude has its own personal "light", different in intensity, heat and exposure.
We, as architects, are led to have to best relate the characteristics of light with the materials, shapes and uses of our architectural spaces. In conclusion, it is necessary to underline how natural light is actually the one and only aspect of architecture that cannot be bent or decided by us designers: in fact, it is up to us architects to "collaborate" with natural light so that our architectures are to enhance its beauty, in a precise and skillful combination of shapes and lights.
Third Prize Winners
Yasha Daga & Devanshi Shah
India
Yasha Daga, an Architect, obtained her degree from Poornima University in Jaipur, India. As a Junior Architect, she seeks inspiration from the concept of creating and designing spaces that deeply connect with both the occupants and the surrounding environment. Her approach to architecture revolves around the idea of sustainability and responsible design. She strives to do justice to the project's unique site and context, meticulously considering location, culture, and the environment.
Devanshi Shah, an Architecture graduate from CEPT University in Ahmedabad, India, is a freelancer and Junior Architect at Is About Design. With a focus on small-scale architectural and residential projects, she crafts spaces that embody personified dreams. Passionate and inspiration driven, Devanshi believes in the power of architecture to tell compelling stories. Her work resonates with individuals on a personal level, reflecting their aspirations and desires. With a dedication to creating meaningful spaces, Devanshi Shah makes valuable contributions to the field of architecture, blending her inspiration and expertise to bring dreams to life.
THIRD PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
THIRD PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
THIRD PRIZE WINNER_SUNLIGHT IN ARCHITECTURE 2023
Design Overview
Could you provide a brief description of your winning design? What were the key elements and concepts you incorporated? How did you prioritize and integrate sunlight into your design to create a transformative architectural space?
We started by asking critical questions that correlated sunlight as an integral element to the spatial experience of a home. We enquired about how we perceive light? Does it create drama? Is it a tangible material? Do we only live in the presence of light?
The design revolves around the material we have chosen for the residence according to the site context and the punctures we have given in the walls as well as ceilings. The play of sunlight interacting with the space creates a holistic mood for the residents transforming the space.
Rancharda, a small town in Ahmedabad, India was the chosen site for this particular project. We designed the villa in a way to gain maximum sunlight along with minimum heat gain. The struggle for the light is what made the design process a milestone.
Through "Aabha" we aim to create a home,
around pockets of light. These pockets are
juxtaposed together through a courtyard,
bridge, corner fenestrations and rays
of skylights through the concrete slabs
washing the walls of the house in a soft sunny
glow.
The ground floor is a public domain with a double volume formal lounge which overlooks the kund and the informal verandah, kitchen, a small dining space and some storage. A staircase then takes one up to a more private area with two bedrooms connected via a bridge. Each bedroom has a washroom and small study area.
The shadows play around the Villa as the day passes, also allowing the moonlight to dance around when the night comes. The slits on the roof projecting upon the bridge give the connection from the ground floor to the sky itself. The bedroom slits make the users sleep under the sky while gazing the stars.
The Villa typology allows freedom to
play with volumes and addition of multiple
of courtyards that create a harmonious
character on site. The parametric brick enclosures seem to dance around
the space, almost sculpting each room
and letting in light through a small series of
voids. The house caters to a family of four
people spread across 360 SQM. in front of
Rancharda lake in Ahmedabad, Gujarat, India.
Importance of Sunlight
How do you perceive the importance of sunlight in architectural design? What benefits does it bring to occupants and the overall atmosphere of a space? Did you encounter any challenges in maximizing the utilization of sunlight in your design, and how did you address them?
Sunlight is an important contextual experience that changes across various types of landscapes. It alters the color of light while entering the building. Sunlight also affects the atmosphere of the space creating different moods at various times of the day. The main challenge was to maximize the use of sunlight whilst limiting the heat gain from the site climate. We started to tackle the harsh sunlight of Ahmedabad by creating a series of small fenestrations that were proportionately articulated by keeping in mind the materiality that we had chosen.
User Experience
How did you prioritize the well-being and comfort of the occupants in your design through the effective use of sunlight? Can you describe any specific spatial or experiential qualities created by the presence of natural light in your design?
Presence of optimum sunlight in a space directly enhances the comfort level of residents. The exposed concrete roof has a series of glass strips that not only create an interesting pattern of rhythmic shadows as the sun moves across the day but also provide various ambiences to the user. This ambience is best experienced when one walks across the glass bridge on the first floor and also while one is enjoying the lake view in the informal verandah on the ground floor.
Advice for Aspiring Architects
What advice would you give to aspiring architects or designers who are interested in exploring the integration of sunlight in their designs? Based on your experience, what are the key elements that make a design stand out in a competition of this nature?
The sunlight has always played a vital part in architecture. It is our reflection that the whole experience of space changes with the sunlight and its shadows directly influencing the design. The massive long brick walls create enclosures but also connect each other through parametric fenestrations.
Aspiring Designers and Architects shall get excited with the idea of incorporating sunlight in their designs. It is our belief that even if one is designing in a desert with no surrounding built forms, the sun and moon become the context and one must adhere to them.
Special mention
Honorable mention
Yashasvini Gopal & Likhitha J
Ivan Lunev
Yi Chiech Yao, Yuan-Yi Chao & Yu Hsi Lin
Yashasvini Gopal & Likhitha J
India
Ivan Lunev
Cyprus
Yi Chiech Yao, Yuan-Yi Chao & Yu Hsi Lin
Taiwan
