The FIU Department of Architecture is proud to celebrate the outstanding achievements of Ecem Aksoy, whose master’s thesis project, Yuva Nest, received the Studio Project of the Year award at the South Florida Young Architect Awards 2026, jointly presented by AIA Miami and AIA Fort Lauderdale.
Developed in Professor Alfredo Andia’s Master Project Studio (Spring 2025), Yuva Nest responds to the devastating 2023 Turkey earthquake with a thoughtful proposal for an inflatable, modular kindergarten designed for children affected by natural disasters. The project envisions a scalable temporary shelter and learning environment that extends beyond basic protection by prioritizing emotional healing, routine, play, and dignity. Through adaptable architecture, Yuva Nest offers a rapid-response solution that supports long-term community resilience and recovery during post-disaster displacement.
The Studio Project of the Year award recognizes an outstanding undergraduate or graduate studio project from architecture programs in Broward and Miami-Dade counties, honoring excellence in presentation, aesthetics, and design.
In addition to this remarkable achievement, Ecem was also honored with the Rising Star of the Year – Young Architect award, recognizing her exceptional promise as an emerging professional.
Reflecting on these recognitions, Ecem shared:
“I had the privilege of developing this project during my final year of my master’s with Alfredo Andia as my thesis professor.
I was also honored to receive the Rising Star of the Year award. I’m incredibly grateful for these recognitions and thankful to everyone who supported and encouraged me throughout my academic and professional journey.”
Congratulations to Ecem Aksoy and Professor Alfredo Andia on this outstanding recognition. We are proud to celebrate this achievement and the impact of FIU Architecture’s commitment to innovative, socially engaged design.
