Alexandru has been an integral part of the VIA studio for over three years. Now, we’re excited to celebrate his recent milestone achievement of becoming a registered architect. The culmination of years of hard work, dedication and perseverance, we are proud to have witnessed Alexandru’s growth and accomplishments.

From his formative architectural influences in Europe to making the big move to Melbourne, we sat down with Alexandru to discuss his story, passions inspirations and aspirations.

 

Q: Congratulations on becoming a registered architect! What inspired you to pursue a career in architecture and how did you get started in the field?

AM: Thank you! To me, architecture is a fusion of technical skills and artistry, solving real-world challenges while expressing creativity. Architecture’s power to shape societies and enrich human experiences fascinated me from a young age. I’m grateful for the mentors, opportunities and experiences that have shaped my journey thus far and I’m excited to continue pushing the boundaries of architecture to make a meaningful difference in the world through my work.

Q: Tell me a bit about your background and what inspired your decision to live and work in Melbourne?

AM: My journey in architecture began in Europe, where I studied and worked on a variety of projects. After years of honing my skills and gaining valuable experience, I felt a stirring desire for new challenges and opportunities. It was this sense of adventure and promise of growth that inspired my decision to make the move to Melbourne.

Q: What buildings or architectural styles have influenced your early career, and how have they shaped your approach to design?

AM: In the city where I grew up, most of the surrounding architecture was modernist and brutalist. The simplicity, functionality and honesty of modernist architecture, pioneered by the likes of Le Corbusier and Ludwig Mies van der Rohe, resonated with me on a fundamental level. The emphasis on clean lines, open spaces and innovative materials encouraged me to prioritise functionality, efficiency and the user experience in my designs.

Q: You have a diverse background working on various architectural projects. Can you share some highlights or memorable experiences from your career journey so far?

AM: Throughout my career journey, I’ve had the privilege of working on a wide range of architectural projects, each presenting its own set of challenges and opportunities. Working on projects in Europe and Australia has provided me with valuable insights into diverse architectural traditions, cultural perspectives and regulatory frameworks. Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams has also broadened my outlook—I firmly believe that sharing knowledge and embracing diverse perspectives is essential for both personal and professional growth.

My view is that every project I’ve been involved in has come with its highlights and lessons learned and has contributed to my career journey and development, making me the design professional I am today.

Q: What aspects of architecture are you most passionate about? Are there any particular types of projects or design challenges that excite you the most?

AM: I believe that architecture should prioritise the needs and experiences of the people who inhabit and interact with the built environment. I’m passionate about designing spaces that are functional, inclusive and conducive to human wellbeing. Understanding the unique requirements and aspirations of clients and users and translating them into thoughtful design solutions is incredibly rewarding to me.

I’m also passionate about finding innovative ways to reduce environmental impact, conserve resources and create buildings that won’t harm the planet. Exploring passive design strategies, renewable materials and energy-efficient systems is both a professional responsibility and a personal passion.

Q: As you transition into this new phase of your career as a registered architect, what are your goals or aspirations for the future?

AM: The challenge is to acknowledge that the only constant is change and that professional (and personal) development never stops. In architecture, staying current with trends and new technologies is essential as the field evolves.

As I progress in my career, I aspire to take on leadership roles where I can contribute my skills and experience to guide and inspire the next generation of architects.

Q: Finally, what advice would you give to aspiring architects who are just starting their careers, based on your own experiences and journey in the field?

AM: Stay curious, embrace diverse experiences and keep learning. Every project, challenge and setback is a chance to grow. Persistence and resilience are essential for navigating the field and building a fulfilling career.

As Alexandru embarks on this new chapter of his career as a registered architect, we are excited to support him as he continues to grow. Here’s to many more achievements and successes ahead!