The Winners!
SUPERHERO’s ABODE - RENDERING CHALLENGE 2023
First Prize Winners
Manan Mantri
Second Prize Winners
Allen Porras
Allen Porras, a Philippines-based architect with a degree in Architecture, specializes in Architecture Design and Visualization. Engaging in Archiol competitions allows him to explore inventive design concepts and rendering styles beyond conventional projects. This opportunity enables him to push the boundaries of his imagination, experiment with new design concepts, and refine his architectural philosophies and narratives.
Can you tell us about the inspiration behind your design for the superhero’s abode? What elements of the superhero’s character or story did you aim to capture in your rendering?
I was inspired from my favorite superhero, Beastboy. For me he has the best ability which is to transform to any kind of animal. And also it was inspired from nature itself, A home that is very close to the nature. Beastboy Home is designed with an exuberant and dynamic aesthetic, reflecting his own persona. The space is a reflection of his character, being profoundly attuned to nature.
What challenges did you encounter during the design process, and how did you overcome them to create your final submission?
The main challenge was how to represent a superhero's abode appropriately through rendered images. I tried 3D modelling and rendering at first, but after a while it didn’t seem appropriate to the objective of my design, so I decided the use of hand drawing before translating it to 3D would best represent the use of stones and timber and the passage of nature and time.
How did you incorporate aspects of heroism, adventure, and innovation into your design? Can you walk us through some specific features or details that reflect these themes?
The home's open layout and open concept foster a sense of freedom and facilitate effortless movement, which is emblematic of Beastboy's persona. In addition, it fosters a profound sense of connection with the natural environment. The full glass façade makes it belong to the nature outside at the same time works as a perimeter cover to his home. Fresh air is pulled through the roof of the home. The dwelling features ample vertical open area to accommodate Beastboy's transformations into winged animals. Beastboy can also transform into arboreal animals that the residence's abundance of vines and branching trees facilitates their mobility. Lastly, the residence features a sizable swimming pool, which Beastboy can utilize when he transforms into an aquatic animal.
In what ways did you consider the practicality and functionality of the superhero's abode while also maintaining its fantastical and visually captivating aspects?
The residence consists of five levels. The Receiving Area is situated on the first level, which is located in the lowest point of the home. Guests are granted access to the residence through a entranceway concealed in a tree outside the premises, which leads directly to the Reception Area. The Living Area on the second level is where Beastboy entertains guests and acquaintances. The location of the Kitchen Garden is on the third level. Beastboy cultivates the fruits, vegetables, and botanicals that he employs in his culinary endeavors. The Recreation Area on the fourth level is his favorite space. Here, he and his friends engage in PlayStation, arcade games and many more. Lastly, situated at the top is the Sleeping Area, where he can retire to rest following a day of heroic deeds. Both the Living Area and the Sleeping Area are equipped with toilet facilities.
What techniques or software did you utilize to bring your architectural rendering to life? How did you ensure that your rendering effectively conveyed the atmosphere and ambiance of the superhero’s home?
First is the use of hand drawing before translating it to 3D to appropriately represent the use of stones, timber, trees, vegetations and the passage of nature and time to the design. Then translating it directly to 3D as well as rendering it to match a nature home vibe for Beastboy home. And photoshop for the final touches.
How do you envision the relationship between the superhero and their abode in your design? How does the space reflect the superhero’s personality, powers, and aspirations?
Beastboy, alternatively referred to as Garfield Logan, is an invented persona within the DC Comics universe. He is a member of the Teen Titans, a collection of youthful characters who confront a variety of challenges and combat crime within the DC Comics universe. He is a superhero. Beastboy possesses the capability to transform into any animals of his choosing; he acquired this ability through a genetic experiment. Beastboy is an adaptable and formidable protagonist due to his ability to transform into the most appropriate animal for the given mission, allowing him to confront a variety of challenges and situations. Frequently portrayed, he is a green-skinned adolescent with a lighthearted and lively disposition. His amusing disposition and lighthearted demeanor frequently serve as comedic relief amidst superhero exploits.
Beastboy Home is designed with an exuberant and dynamic aesthetic, reflecting his own persona. The space is a reflection of his character. Being profoundly attuned to nature, Beastboy Home is constructed in the style of a vertical forest.
Third Prize Winners
Zhixian Hou
Special mention
Honorable mention
Lizi Khutsishvili
Peng Xiaoyu
Nguyen Ha Anh
Lizi Khutsishvili
Lizi Khutsishvili, a 21-year-old from Tbilisi, Georgia, is currently a fourth-year student at Georgian Technical University, studying interior and furniture design at the International Design School. With a passion for art, Lizi has been honing her skills since a young age, attending an art school for ten years alongside her regular studies. She has gained experience as an interior and furniture designer, working with three local companies, and has also dabbled in graphic design and logo-making. Currently, she teaches art at a local school while pursuing her studies. Drawing is her main hobby, and she finds inspiration for her design ideas in both art and music. Her goal is to expand her knowledge, master relevant technologies and tools, and ultimately become a renowned designer, creating impactful projects and sharing her expertise with a wider audience.
Peng Xiaoyu
Peng Xiaoyu was born on November 17, 1980, in Anfeng Town, Xinghua, Jiangsu Province. From 1998 to 2002, they studied geological engineering at Tongji University. Before 2022, Peng Xiaoyu worked for various Chinese real estate development companies such as Wharf Real Estate, Vanke Real Estate, and Sincere Real Estate. He is also an enthusiast and learner of architectural design.
Nguyen Ha Anh
