Interview with Yafei Zhang | The Architect behind White Pine Serenity

With over a decade of experience in the architecture field, I have honed my expertise in BIM technology, integrating green building and LEED into urban life design, including large-scale, multi-building urban developments, contemporary workplaces, residential, and high-profile education facilities. I received the Master of Architecture degree from UCLA, and am a registered architect in the state of New Jersey, United States. My innovations in the BIM all-in-one tool that automatically calculates plumbing fixtures & egress occupant load in building design have been proven to provide impeccable improvements to the previous manual calculations.

I am dedicated to influencing my peers to apply BIM to high-efficiency and eco-friendly architecture design. I have delivered numerous guest lectures and presentations on BIM-related topics, including "BIM Assists on TOD & Urban Renewal", "Frontier Development and Practical Applications of BIM Technology in the Architectural Field" and “The Human Touch: The Role of Human-Centered Design in Architecture and Design”. My presentations have been well-received, showcasing my ability to convey complex concepts clearly and engagingly. As a guest speaker, I have significantly contributed to the dissemination of knowledge and best practices in BIM, further establishing myself as a thought leader in the field.

My journey to becoming a designer and architect was driven by a profound passion for creating spaces that inspire, function seamlessly, and stand as a testament to human ingenuity. From a young age, I was fascinated by how buildings and spaces influence our lives, emotions, and interactions. On the other hand, I have witnessed the abundant waste and pollution that has occurred due to large-scale construction. This curiosity, coupled with a strong creative impulse and the responsibility as a LEED-certified architect, led me to pursue a career where I could blend artistic vision with technical precision.

Architecture and design offer a unique platform to address complex challenges through innovative solutions. The opportunity to shape the environment, to turn abstract ideas into tangible structures that can improve the quality of life, is both exciting and fulfilling. My academic training at UCLA and Beijing Jiaotong University provided a solid foundation, while my professional experiences at KPF, ADG, Kean University, and WIB have allowed me to hone my skills and lead top award-winning projects in the industry.

Additionally, the collaborative nature of architectural work, where diverse teams come together to bring visions to life, is something I deeply value. The dynamic interplay of creativity, technology, and practical problem-solving in architecture continuously motivates me. My involvement in BIM and sustainable design further reinforces my commitment to leveraging cutting-edge technologies to create efficient, environmentally responsible structures.

Ultimately, I chose this path to make a meaningful impact through design, contributing to a built environment that not only meets the needs of its users but also elevates their experience.

As a BIM Lead and Associate Principal at Kohn Pedersen Fox (KPF), I have led the technical execution of projects from concept through completion, notably the Bund Fosun Center in Wuhan, China. Since 2020, with my critical knowledge, I have served as BIM Lead for a large team executing a 1.2 million-square-foot interior office fit-out for a well-known multinational technology company in New York City. I also take the technical lead and BIM Lead on a high-profile educational project University of Michigan Center for Innovation in Detroit.

As an adjunct professor of Architecture at Kean University, I have led the Professional Practice Seminar for graduate students. Imparting practical knowledge and real-world insights to aspiring next generation of architects and helping them bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the professional architecture industry, especially the cutting-edge BIM technical applications in the real world.

As a Regional Lead in BIM at WIB, underscore my dedication to promoting diversity and inclusion within the industry. My efforts to raise awareness and support for women with global leaders highlight my commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive professional environment.

To me, design is the art and science of creating spaces, objects, and systems that enhance the human experience. It’s a process of problem-solving that involves creativity, empathy, and technical skill, aimed at producing solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing.

Design is about understanding the needs and desires of people and translating that understanding into physical form. It’s about envisioning how a space or object will be used, how it will feel, and how it will impact those who interact with it. Whether it’s a building, a piece of furniture, or an entire urban plan, design is about making life better, easier, and more enjoyable.

Moreover, design is an iterative process that involves constant learning and adaptation. It’s about experimenting with ideas, making mistakes, and refining solutions until they work perfectly. It’s a discipline that requires both imagination and precision, balancing artistic expression with practical considerations.

At its core, design is about innovation and pushing boundaries. It’s about challenging the status quo and finding new ways to solve problems. In the context of architecture and BIM, it’s about using the latest technologies to create buildings and spaces that are not only beautiful but also sustainable and efficient. Therefore, I keep pushing myself to break down barriers and innovate technologies.

Design is also deeply collaborative. It involves working with clients, engineers, builders, and other stakeholders to bring a vision to life. It’s about communication and teamwork, ensuring that everyone’s input is valued and integrated into the final product.

Ultimately, design is about leaving a lasting impact. It’s about creating something that endures, that people remember and cherish. It’s about shaping the world around us in a way that reflects our values, aspirations, and identity. For me, design is a powerful tool for change, with the potential to transform our environment and our lives.

My favourite kind of design is sustainable architecture. This design philosophy seamlessly integrates aesthetic appeal with environmental responsibility, creating spaces that are both beautiful and beneficial to the planet. Sustainable architecture appeals to me for several reasons:

Firstly, it addresses one of the most pressing challenges of our time: climate change. By incorporating energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and sustainable construction practices, sustainable architecture reduces the carbon footprint of buildings and promotes a healthier planet. This alignment with environmental stewardship resonates deeply with my personal values and professional goals.

Secondly, sustainable architecture is inherently innovative. It pushes the boundaries of traditional design by incorporating cutting-edge technologies and forward-thinking strategies. The challenge of designing buildings that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also environmentally responsible requires creativity and ingenuity. This constant pursuit of innovation keeps me engaged and inspired.

Moreover, sustainable architecture emphasises the well-being of its occupants. It prioritises natural light, ventilation, and the use of non-toxic materials, creating healthier living and working environments. This holistic approach to design, which considers the impact on both the environment and human health, is something I find profoundly rewarding.

Finally, sustainable architecture fosters a sense of connection to the natural world. By integrating elements such as green roofs, living walls, and indoor gardens, it blurs the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, allowing occupants to experience a greater connection to nature. This biophilic design approach not only enhances the aesthetic quality of a space but also promotes mental and physical well-being. I have published multiple papers exploring academic and practical solutions to green building issues, which have been extensively discussed by peers.

In summary, sustainable architecture is my favourite kind of design because it embodies innovation, environmental responsibility, and a holistic approach to human well-being. It challenges me to think creatively and critically, and it aligns with my commitment to making a positive impact on the world through design.

To me, a "good" design is one that successfully balances form and function while addressing the needs and desires of its users. Several key elements contribute to making a design truly good:

Sustainability: In today's world, sustainability is a critical aspect of good design. This means using environmentally friendly materials, incorporating energy-efficient systems, and designing for longevity and adaptability. A sustainable design minimises its impact on the environment and promotes a healthier planet.

User-Centered: Good design is empathetic. It takes into account the needs, preferences, and behaviours of the people who will interact with it. This user-centered approach ensures that the design is intuitive, accessible, and responsive to the user's needs. It should enhance the user’s experience and provide a sense of comfort and satisfaction.

Innovation: Good design often involves innovative thinking. It pushes boundaries and explores new ideas and technologies to provide better solutions. Innovation can manifest in the use of new materials, unique forms, or creative problem-solving approaches that set the design apart from the ordinary.

In essence, a good design is one that is sustainable, user-centered, innovative, and contextually aware. It not only fulfills its intended purpose but also enriches the lives of those who interact with it, leaving a lasting positive impact.

The idea for "White Pine Serenity" emerged from a deep appreciation for the natural environment and a desire to create a space that fosters tranquility and reflection. Here’s how the concept developed:

Inspiration from Nature: The initial spark came from a visit to a serene forest dominated by majestic white pines. The peaceful atmosphere, the gentle rustling of the leaves, and the dappled sunlight filtering through the canopy left a lasting impression on me. I wanted to capture that sense of calm and connection to nature in my design.

Design Philosophy: I believe that architecture should harmonise with its surroundings and enhance the natural beauty of the site. For "White Pine Serenity," the goal was to create a space that blends seamlessly with the forest, using materials and forms that reflect the natural environment. The design aims to evoke a sense of peace and well-being, much like the feeling I experienced in the white pine forest.

Sustainable Practices: Sustainability is a core principle in my work. The design of "White Pine Serenity" incorporates eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient systems. The use of locally sourced wood, particularly white pine, not only ties the structure to its environment but also reduces the carbon footprint. Additionally, the building is designed to maximise natural light and ventilation, minimising the need for artificial lighting and heating. It was created as an interior design that is well-suited for renovation. When this design was implemented, I utilised my innovation "BIM all-in-one function” to immediately calculate the existing building pipelines and carry out the water-saving design. I plan to expand this approach further to various aspects of interior design, such as light source calculation.

User Experience: Creating a serene and reflective environment for users was paramount. The layout of "White Pine Serenity" includes open, airy spaces with large windows that frame views of the surrounding forest. Indoor and outdoor areas are seamlessly connected, allowing occupants to feel immersed in nature. Quiet corners and meditative spaces are integrated into the design to encourage contemplation and relaxation.

In conclusion, "White Pine Serenity" is the result of a deep connection to nature, a commitment to sustainability, and a focus on creating a peaceful user experience. The design reflects my philosophy of harmonising architecture with the natural environment and my belief in the power of thoughtful, sustainable design to enrich lives.

The main source of inspiration for the design of "White Pine Serenity" was the tranquil beauty of a white pine forest. This serene natural setting, with its majestic trees, gentle rustling leaves, and dappled sunlight, left a profound impression on me. I sought to capture the peaceful atmosphere and the deep connection to nature that I felt during my visit to the forest.

By reflecting on the calming and restorative qualities of the white pine forest, I aimed to create a space that offers similar experiences of tranquility and reflection. This inspiration guided the choice of materials, the integration of sustainable practices, and the overall aesthetic and functional design of "White Pine Serenity," ensuring that it harmonises with its natural surroundings and provides a sanctuary for its users.

Absolutely, my country and its cultural heritage significantly impact my design process. Traditional architectural forms, patterns, and materials often inform the aesthetics of my designs, creating spaces that resonate with cultural significance while blending contemporary functionality. The emphasis on locally sourced materials and sustainable practices from my heritage guides my commitment to environmentally responsible design, ensuring my projects are both eco-friendly and culturally relevant.

Understanding the cultural nuances of communal living and social interactions shapes the way I design spaces, often reflecting the importance of gathering spaces and fostering community. This connection to cultural heritage ensures that my designs are not only aesthetically pleasing and functional but also culturally meaningful and sustainable. By balancing respect for historical context with innovative thinking, I create work that is both timeless and forward-thinking, adding depth and authenticity to each project.

Winning the London Design Awards is a tremendous honour for me. This recognition is a testament to my dedication to excellence, innovation, and the collaborative spirit that drives my work. It validates the countless hours of hard work and the passion I poured into each project, showcasing my commitment to pushing the boundaries of design. This award not only celebrates my past achievements but also inspires me to continue striving for innovation and excellence in future endeavours.

"White Pine Serenity" exemplifies my commitment to integrating advanced Building Information Modeling (BIM) technology with sustainable architectural practices. Utilising BIM allowed me to meticulously plan and visualise every aspect of the project, from the precise calculation of plumbing usage to optimising energy-efficient systems.

This technology facilitated seamless coordination among multidisciplinary teams, ensuring that my design not only met but exceeded environmental standards. By digitally modeling the project, I could simulate and analyse its environmental impact, enhancing our ability to minimise waste and maximise energy efficiency throughout construction.

I chose to submit "White Pine Serenity" to the London Design Awards because it represents a harmonious blend of technological innovation and sustainable design principles. This project not only showcases my proficiency in leveraging BIM for precise design execution but also underscores my dedication to creating spaces that resonate with their natural surroundings.

Winning this award acknowledges my expertise in using technology to achieve architectural excellence while prioritising environmental sustainability, setting a benchmark for future projects in both design innovation and ecological stewardship.

One significant challenge was achieving high energy efficiency standards without compromising on design integrity. I tackled this by implementing passive design strategies such as optimising natural ventilation and daylighting through BIM simulations. These simulations helped me refine the building envelope and HVAC systems to minimise energy consumption while maintaining a comfortable indoor environment.

Collaborating closely with engineers was also essential in integrating sustainable solutions into every aspect of the design, from material selection to construction techniques. By leveraging BIM for precise planning and sustainability assessments, I not only addressed complex design challenges but also ensured that "White Pine Serenity" stands as a testament to responsible architecture that respects and enhances its natural surroundings.

Winning the London Design Award for "White Pine Serenity" represents a pivotal achievement that will significantly influence my future as an architect. This accolade validates my commitment to integrating advanced technologies like BIM with sustainable design principles, affirming my capability to deliver innovative and impactful architectural solutions.

It enhances my reputation within the design community and among prospective clients, opening doors to new collaborations and opportunities. Personally, this recognition serves as a catalyst for continued exploration of cutting-edge design techniques and advocacy for sustainability, motivating me to strive for even higher standards of creativity and excellence in all future projects.

As a responsive architect, my top three favourite things about the industry are:

Creativity and Innovation: The design industry allows for boundless creativity and innovation, where each project presents a unique challenge and opportunity to explore new ideas and solutions. From conceptualising designs to implementing them in real-world scenarios, the creative freedom to shape spaces and environments is immensely fulfilling.

Impact and Influence: Design has a profound impact on people's lives and communities. Whether creating a functional office space, a sustainable residential complex, or an inspiring public structure, designers can enhance how people interact with their surroundings, fostering better living, working, and recreational environments.

Collaboration and Diversity: Collaboration is at the heart of the design process, involving architects, engineers, clients, and various stakeholders. This collaborative spirit fosters diverse perspectives and expertise, enriching the design journey and leading to more holistic and innovative solutions. The industry's diversity also allows for continuous learning and growth, as each project brings new challenges and opportunities for professional development.

My design philosophy is distinguished by a meticulous integration of BIM technology and a strong commitment to sustainable practices. I have received national and international acclaim based on my extraordinary BIM innovations and the corresponding implementations at KPF. I invented the specific technology “BIM all-in-one tool” that automatically calculates plumbing fixture & egress occupant load in building design that revolutionises building design by automatically calculating plumbing fixture and egress occupant loads.

This cutting-edge solution has dramatically improved efficiency, reducing manual calculation time by 85% and saving design teams an average of 500 hours per project. By automating complex calculations, the tool has virtually eliminated human errors, achieved a 95% reduction, and ensured significantly more accurate and reliable results. This has led to a 25% improvement in compliance with building codes.

Utilising Building Information Modeling (BIM), I ensure precision in every stage of the design process, from initial concept to final construction. This advanced technology enables comprehensive visualisation, simulation, and coordination, enhancing efficiency and minimising errors. Moreover, my designs prioritise sustainability by incorporating passive design strategies, energy-efficient systems, and environmentally friendly materials.

This dual focus on technological innovation and sustainability not only sets my work apart in terms of efficiency and environmental impact but also results in spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and harmoniously integrated with their surroundings.

Over the next 5-10 years, the design industry will evolve significantly with advancements in technology, sustainability, and human-centered design. Building Information Modeling (BIM), augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR), and artificial intelligence (AI) will streamline the design process, enhancing collaboration, visualisation, and efficiency.

There will be a heightened focus on sustainable practices, emphasising energy efficiency, resilience to climate impacts, and adaptive reuse of materials. Human-centric design principles will prioritise health, well-being, and user experience, fostering inclusive and responsive environments. Interdisciplinary collaboration will deepen, integrating expertise from various fields to tackle complex challenges and deliver innovative, holistic solutions. Innovations in construction techniques, such as prefabrication and 3D printing, will further revolutionise building practices, promoting efficiency, customisation, and architectural expression in the built environment.

My advice for aspiring designers aiming to create award-winning designs is to prioritise innovation, meticulous attention to detail, and a deep understanding of user needs and context. Embrace emerging technologies like BIM and stay updated with industry trends to enhance design efficiency and accuracy. Cultivate a strong foundation in sustainable practices, ensuring designs not only meet aesthetic criteria but also contribute positively to the environment.

Foster interdisciplinary collaboration to gain diverse perspectives and enrich design solutions. Lastly, maintain a passion for continuous learning and experimentation, pushing boundaries to create impactful, memorable designs that resonate with both clients and the broader community.

I would recommend several resources for individuals looking to enhance their skills in the design industry. Firstly, online platforms such as Coursera, Udemy, and LinkedIn Learning offer courses on design fundamentals, software proficiency (like Adobe Creative Suite, SketchUp, and Revit), and advanced topics such as sustainable design and BIM. Joining professional organisations like the American Institute of Architects (AIA), Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED), or local chapters of design associations provides networking opportunities, access to industry events, and continuing education resources.

Additionally, subscribing to design publications like Architectural Digest, Dezeen, and ArchDaily offers insights into cutting-edge trends, projects, and innovations shaping the industry. Finally, attending workshops, conferences, and webinars hosted by industry leaders and institutions can provide valuable hands-on learning experiences and exposure to current best practices in design.

My key to success lies in a combination of passion, persistence, and continuous learning. By staying curious, embracing challenges as opportunities for growth, and maintaining a strong work ethic, I've been able to navigate my career in design with purpose and fulfillment. Parting words of wisdom would be to trust in your abilities, stay open to new experiences, and always strive to make a positive impact through your work. Success isn't just about achievements but also about the journey and the positive influence you can have on others along the way.

I'd like to emphasise the pivotal role of BIM technology and sustainable design principles in my approach. BIM has revolutionised how we conceptualise and execute projects, enabling precise coordination, efficient workflows, and enhanced communication among multidisciplinary teams. My outstanding BIM leading role in the projects has extended to a certain level in the entire industry.

This technology has not only streamlined our design processes but also improved project outcomes by integrating sustainability from the outset. Emphasising sustainable design principles ensures that our projects minimise environmental impact while maximising efficiency and occupant comfort. By integrating BIM and sustainability, I want to inspire my peers to meet current industry standards and contribute positively to the built environment for future generations.