Medan, USU PR – Viory Hizkia Hutahuruk, a 2021 student from the Architecture Study Program, Faculty of Engineering, Universitas Sumatera Utara (FT USU), has achieved international recognition by winning an international architecture competition. The competition, organized by Archcontest, was titled "Schrödinger's Room, Edition #2." It brought together architects, designers, and artists from around the world to present innovative ideas exploring space and the human experience.

Under the theme "Schrödinger's Room, Edition #2," participants were challenged to imagine a space existing between possibility and paradox, inspired by the quantum physics concept introduced by Erwin Schrödinger. Competitors were tasked with designing a real or imaginary space capable of evoking an emotional experience for those who encounter it.

Viory did not compete alone. Together with Gisela Athaya Aglin, also a student from the Architecture Study Program, FT USU, and Yahya Ayyash from Universitas Sebelas Maret (UNS), she developed a design entitled "Mending Through Absence." Through this work, the team explored themes of loss, memory, and emotional healing by presenting a reflective architectural approach.

Through "Mending Through Absence," the team offered an interpretation of space as a medium for healing emotional wounds and rebuilding meaning in the aftermath of loss.

https://www.archcontest.com/en/competition/winners/17

For Viory, participating in architectural design competitions has become an integral part of her learning journey. In addition to refining her design skills, these competitions have enabled her to expand her professional network, exchange ideas, and gain insights into developments in architecture at both the national and international levels.

"There are actually many things you can gain from competitions that you don't necessarily get in university. The first is networking. I've truly felt the difference after making friends from other countries. We gain new perspectives on how architecture is studied and practiced there," she explained.

According to Viory, the competitions have enhanced not only her technical expertise in architecture but also a range of soft skills, including communication, teamwork, critical thinking, and creativity. They have also provided her with fresh perspectives on the distinctive architectural characteristics of different regions.

"We also have to conduct research on the surrounding environment, the local community, their habits, and their culture," she said.

Viory's passion for architecture stems from her belief that Indonesia possesses an extraordinary wealth of architectural diversity. She sees this richness as an opportunity to create designs that not only demonstrate aesthetic value but also reflect Indonesia's cultural identity.

"Especially here in North Sumatra, there are so many things worth exploring. The people are unique, the ethnic groups, customs, and traditions—everything is fascinating to examine from an architectural perspective," she explained.

Her journey through various competitions has not always been smooth. Every setback has become a valuable learning experience and an opportunity for self-evaluation, motivating her to continue improving and producing better work. Comparing her projects with those of winning entries has helped her identify areas for further development.

She emphasized that developing one's abilities should not rely solely on classroom learning but should also involve independent study through reading references, analyzing outstanding architectural works, and keeping up with the latest developments in the field of architecture.