Julian Hüfner: Winner of the Cyclist House

+ Julian Hüfner 🇩🇪

Winner of the Cyclist House

Portfolio: https://www.non-a.com/members/ju96/

1) Could you briefly introduce yourself?

At 28, I find fulfillment as an architect at HPP Architects, having earned my master’s degree at SRH Heidelberg. My ardor for architecture extends beyond my professional realm. The discovery of Non Architecture through an online competition not only provides a platform for creative expression outside my routine but also aligns with my eagerness to explore innovative concepts using emerging technologies. Grateful for the recognition, I anticipate engaging in more such challenges, allowing me to unleash creativity and nurture groundbreaking ideas.

2) What inspired you for the Cyclist House?

Rooted in the urgency of addressing global challenges, my design for the Cyclist House envisions a lifestyle that seamlessly integrates sustainable living, global warming mitigation, public health enhancement, ecosystem revitalization, and futuristic dwelling. The concept revolves around a luxury caravan – a mobile abode tethered to a bicycle, driven by an electric motor fueled entirely by solar power. The innovative use of sustainable materials and solar panels not only reduces the carbon footprint but also champions renewable energy sources. By promoting physical activity, reducing air pollution, and fostering a deeper connection with nature, this visionary lifestyle positions the cyclist as a pioneer in future living, advocating for a more sustainable, healthier, and harmonious coexistence with our planet.

3) Can you describe any particular challenges you faced during the design process and how
you overcame them?

While conceptualizing the design, I immersed myself in the lifestyle of bikers. Originating from a small town in Germany, my commitment was to bridge the gap between urban and natural settings, drawing inspiration from my experiences in both. The challenge was to translate the essence of a cyclist’s lifestyle in a bustling city like London while preserving the opportunity to escape the urban routine. This duality influenced the design process, emphasizing a solution that caters to both scenarios.

4) How do you think your educational background or professional experiences influenced your winning design?

Drawing upon my architectural background developed over a decade of study and professional engagement, I navigated the delicate balance between fiction and reality inherent in architectural projects. Working at HPP Architects, one of the largest architectural firms, has equipped me with a pragmatic understanding of the challenges in translating designs into reality. Non Architecture aligns perfectly with my inclination to creatively push boundaries, stepping outside the conventional norms and exploring innovative solutions.

5) What advice would you give to students or young professionals looking to excel in architecture competitions?

My advice for budding architects is simple: Go for it. Learning by doing is not just a cliché; it is a profound philosophy in architecture. Transmitting emotions through design is an art best learned through practical experience. Embrace challenges, even in the face of opposition. Swimming against the current may be strenuous, but it’s in those moments that profound learning occurs. Embrace criticism, view setbacks as learning opportunities, and trust that diverging from the mainstream path will lead to invaluable insights.

6) What are your future aspirations in the field of architecture?

Aspirations include securing a position in a distinguished architecture firm, a prospect made even more intriguing by my girlfriend’s role in Art Direction, hailing from London. The combination of colossal buildings, large-scale projects, and the fusion of classical architecture with cutting-edge technologies captivates me. Daily, I strive to accumulate experiences that could pave the way for such a significant career move in the coming years. The prospect of international exposure, connecting with diverse cultures, and marrying classical architecture with modern technologies are facets that I find profoundly stimulating. Maybe a london-based office will read this and give me the chance to introduce myself. You never know.

UrbanCycle