Interview with Yuhan Zhang | Aesthetic Connections Between Cities & Landscapes

Hey, my name's Yuhan Zhang. I am an architectural designer with a foundation in environmental science and urban planning, which informs my approach to creating sustainable and context-sensitive designs. I began my academic journey at the University of California, Berkeley, where I studied Environmental Sciences before pursuing a Master of Architecture degree at Yale University.

My work focuses on harmonizing technical expertise with cultural awareness, ensuring that each project not only meets functional needs but also resonates with its surroundings. Currently based in New York, I engage with a diverse range of projects, from urban planning initiatives to intricate product design.

I chose to become an architect because I believe in the power of design to transform lives and environments. Inspired by iconic works like Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater, I recognized that architecture can bridge the gap between nature and urban living. My goal is to create spaces that foster sustainability, community engagement, and a deeper connection to the natural world.

At SCDA, my role involves leading innovative design projects that prioritize sustainability and community integration. I collaborate with interdisciplinary teams to explore new ways of enhancing urban living through architecture that supports both environmental responsibility and social connectivity.

Design is a profound act of intention, shaping the way people interact with their environment and each other. It’s about creating meaningful spaces that resonate with the human experience while addressing broader ecological and social concerns. Ultimately, good design nurtures a sense of place and belonging.

My favorite kind of design is one that embodies sustainability and integrates nature into urban environments. I am particularly inspired by projects that redefine the relationship between architecture and the natural world, transforming urban landscapes into living ecosystems. This approach not only enhances the aesthetic value of a space but also promotes biodiversity and environmental stewardship.

Designs like vertical farms and green roofs resonate with me because they create a tangible connection between people and their food sources, fostering a sense of community and awareness about our impact on the planet. Ultimately, I believe that design should elevate our daily experiences while addressing the pressing challenges of climate change and urbanization.

A good design is one that successfully balances functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. It should address the needs of its users while enhancing the environment and community. A good design also fosters a sense of belonging and connection, creating spaces that resonate with their occupants on multiple levels.

My design style is characterized by an integration of natural elements and modern aesthetics. I strive to create spaces that are not only visually striking but also promote sustainability and well-being. This often involves using natural materials, maximizing daylight, and incorporating greenery to create harmonious environments that connect people with nature.

My design process begins with a thorough understanding of the context, including environmental, cultural, and social factors. I engage with stakeholders to gather insights and collaboratively explore ideas. From conceptual sketches to detailed models, I emphasize iterative design, constantly refining my vision while prioritizing sustainability and functionality.

China’s rich cultural heritage has profoundly influenced my design process. Traditional philosophies, such as harmony with nature and the importance of community, guide my approach to architecture. I aim to blend these cultural values with contemporary practices, creating designs that honor the past while addressing modern challenges.

Winning the NY Architectural Design Award is an incredible honor that validates our commitment to innovative and sustainable design. It reflects the hard work of my team and inspires us to push the boundaries of architecture further, reinforcing our dedication to creating meaningful spaces that resonate with communities.

Our winning entry, SKY DROPLET, embodies a visionary redefinition of the urban skyline—transforming it from a mere collection of structures into a vibrant, self-sustaining vertical ecosystem. This project reimagines urban life at an unprecedented scale: a mile-high vertical community on the Chicago lakefront that rises like a living organism, combining sustainable architecture with a profound commitment to addressing food deserts and promoting social health.

Inspired by the intricate patterns found in water droplets, SKY DROPLET comprises four interconnected towers, each supported by a diagrid exoskeleton, resembling the ripple effects of water on a still lake. These towers are more than architectural icons; they represent an integrated approach to sustainability, where residents can live, work, and nurture their connection to nature. Vertical farms stretch skyward throughout the structure, ensuring that fresh produce is accessible within the building itself, creating a seamless connection between urban living and food production.

The design also incorporates renewable energy sources—harnessing wind, rain, and even ambient moisture—resulting in an eco-friendly, self-sustaining ecosystem. Innovative technologies like the MULTI elevator system create an interconnected loop for movement throughout the complex, allowing residents to flow seamlessly between spaces for living, work, and leisure.

In every detail, SKY DROPLET is intended not only to serve as a sustainable architectural landmark but to be a catalyst for transforming urban centers into holistic environments that nurture both people and the planet. We chose this project for the MUSE Design Awards to emphasize that architecture, at its best, goes beyond buildings; it creates enduring ecosystems where human potential and nature can thrive side by side.

The biggest challenge with SKY DROPLET was the complex interplay of sustainability, technology, and community integration in a high-density urban environment. As we sought to create a mile-high vertical community, we faced the daunting task of ensuring that the architectural design not only met aesthetic and functional requirements but also provided a robust solution to pressing social issues, particularly food accessibility.

One significant hurdle was designing an effective vertical farming system that could thrive within the structural limitations of skyscrapers while also maintaining an engaging user experience. We had to carefully consider factors such as light penetration, water management, and the microclimate within the towers to ensure that the farms could produce a diverse range of crops year-round. This required innovative engineering solutions and collaboration with agricultural experts to create an environment conducive to both plant growth and human interaction.

Winning an award has significantly elevated my practice and provided recognition for our innovative approach to design. It has opened doors for new opportunities and collaborations, allowing me to further explore sustainable practices and share our vision with a broader audience. This accolade motivates us to continue pushing the envelope in architecture.

1. The ability of architecture to shape communities and improve lives.

2. The collaborative nature of design, bringing together diverse talents and perspectives.

3. The constant innovation within the industry, particularly regarding sustainability and technology integration.

China’s design industry is unique due to its rich cultural heritage, rapid urbanization, and growing focus on sustainability. The blend of traditional aesthetics with modern technological advancements creates a dynamic environment for innovation in architecture. Additionally, the country’s commitment to green design reflects a broader recognition of the need for sustainable solutions.

I foresee the design industry increasingly prioritizing sustainability and resilience. Advances in technology will lead to smarter, more adaptive buildings that respond to environmental challenges, for sure. There will also be a greater emphasis on community-oriented designs that address social inequities, creating spaces that foster inclusivity and well-being.

My advice to aspiring designers is to remain curious and open-minded. Embrace interdisciplinary approaches and seek knowledge from various fields to enrich your understanding of design. Build a strong portfolio that showcases not just your technical skills but also your innovative thinking and commitment to sustainability.

To improve your skills in the design industry, I recommend immersing yourself in a diverse range of experiences. Start by exploring design exhibitions and events, which can offer inspiration and insights into contemporary trends and innovative practices. Engaging in discussions with fellow designers, whether through informal meetups or professional organizations, can provide valuable perspectives and foster collaboration.

Additionally, seeking out mentorship from experienced professionals can be transformative, allowing you to gain personalized guidance and feedback. It's also beneficial to develop a habit of critiquing your work and that of others, as this practice sharpens your analytical skills and helps you understand different design approaches. Finally, always remain curious and open to exploring new materials, techniques, and cultures, as these explorations will enrich your creative vocabulary and influence your design thinking.

One thing I haven’t shared is that I often find inspiration in unexpected places, like nature walks or urban exploration, just to jump out of the box of architecture for a second. These experiences remind me of the importance of looking beyond traditional architectural settings to discover new ideas and perspectives that can inform my work.

Buckminster Fuller is a profound source of inspiration for me. His visionary approach to architecture and design, particularly his concepts of sustainability and efficiency, has reshaped my understanding of how we can interact with our environment. Fuller’s idea of “doing more with less” resonates deeply in an era where resource conservation is paramount.

His geodesic domes exemplify how innovative structures can achieve remarkable strength while minimizing materials, showcasing the potential for designs that harmonize with natural forces. Moreover, his belief in the interconnectedness of all things challenges me to think beyond traditional architectural boundaries, fostering a holistic perspective on design that considers social, ecological, and technological dimensions.

Fuller’s work encourages me to embrace a forward-thinking mindset, inspiring me to create spaces that not only serve human needs but also contribute positively to the world around us.

My key to success in architecture lies in my unwavering commitment to innovation and sustainability. I believe in the transformative power of design to create a positive impact on communities and the environment. My parting advice is to approach your work with passion, curiosity, and a sense of responsibility toward the world we inhabit, as architecture has the potential to shape the future.