I am He Guangqian, the founder and principal architect of Xizhu Architectural Design Firm. I hold a Master's degree in Landscape Architecture from Chongqing University and in addition to that, I'm a Senior Engineer.

I am a member of the American Institute of Architects (AIA) and the Architectural Society of China. My works have won multiple local and international awards and have been featured and reprinted by numerous renowned media outlets both at home and abroad.

The main reasons that prompted me to become a designer are as follows:

Firstly, my childhood love for handicrafts and drawing planted the seeds of design within me. I loved creating various architectural models out of clay; the joy of creation fascinated me. When it came time for the college entrance exams, I wanted to choose a major that would allow me to continue "playing" with these things, and ultimately, I chose architectural design.

Secondly, I firmly believe that architectural design can directly influence people's lives. Architecture is not just the construction of space but also a carrier of culture and emotion. I yearn to improve people's quality of life through design, creating spaces that have warmth.

Additionally, the interdisciplinary nature of architectural design deeply attracts me. It integrates art, science, and technology, allowing me to continuously learn and grow. Collaborating with professionals from different fields broadens my horizons and ways of thinking.

Lastly, the innovative vitality of the design industry excites me greatly. Continuously exploring new materials and technologies keeps my passion for creation alive.

Therefore, a love for creation, a desire to improve life, and a pursuit of innovation prompted me to choose to become a designer.

Xizhu Architectural Design Firm was founded by me, specializing in achieving the integration of humans and nature. We uphold the design philosophy of "adapting measures to local conditions, leveraging local advantages, and constructing based on the locality."

We excel at capturing the unique characteristics of each site and the natural environment, ingeniously blending architecture with nature to fully showcase regional features and create spatial experiences that harmoniously coexist with the environment.

We are committed to transforming the uniqueness of each project's site into design advantages, infusing refined humanistic sentiments and innovative thinking throughout, thereby crafting vibrant and dynamic design spaces.

As the company's chief designer, I am primarily responsible for leading the team to complete various projects. During the design phase, I establish the overall design framework, determine the project's comprehensive plan, and then assign specific detailed tasks to team members. I oversee the project's overall progress and direction and present proposals to clients.

In the construction phase, I personally visit the site to supervise, determining details such as material selection and sample approvals. I greatly enjoy the construction process; it's like nurturing a child, witnessing the work come to fruition through meticulous refinement. When the project is completed, the heartfelt sense of accomplishment is incomparable.

To me, design is the process of turning ideas into reality; it influences how people experience space and the environment. Design is not just the creation of beauty but also a means to solve problems and meet client needs while telling a unique story in the process.

It can shape emotions and enhance the quality of life by balancing function and creativity. Design is a continuous dialogue between form and function—a process of creating meaningful spaces and experiences.

My favorite type of design is architectural design. Whenever I delve into the intricacies of architectural space, a sense of excitement naturally arises, as if I'm playing a game with space. From initially having no concrete ideas to gradually developing a complete design plan, the process fills me with immense exhilaration.

It's somewhat like a ten-month pregnancy, carefully nurturing a "child." When the work finally comes to fruition, the joy and sense of fulfillment are beyond words.

In my view, a "good" design is a perfect fusion of aesthetics, functionality, and purpose. It should not only be visually pleasing but also solve practical problems, providing users with an exceptional experience. Good design can enhance the way people interact with spaces or objects while reflecting cultural connotations, sustainability, and innovation.

A "good" design respects the environment, efficiently utilizes resources, incorporates forward-thinking concepts, and can withstand the test of time—it is both a practical solution and an artistic expression.

I consider my design style to be open and diverse. I am full of curiosity about new things and enjoy experimenting with different design languages and styles. I believe that design is a continuous process of exploration and innovation, creating unique and meaningful works by integrating diverse elements.

The design process is a systematic procedure that integrates creativity, analysis, and collaboration, encompassing five stages: research and analysis, conceptual design, design development, presentation, and construction implementation.

Firstly, we conduct an in-depth study of the project's geographical location, environmental characteristics, and community needs to accurately grasp the project's uniqueness and potential challenges.

Next, during the conceptual design stage, we unleash creativity by exploring multiple design proposals, sketching drawings, and creating 3D models. We actively discuss these ideas with the team to ensure the design's comprehensiveness and innovation.

After determining the initial concept, we enter the design development stage, refining spatial layouts, material selections, and technical details. We closely collaborate with professionals to achieve the optimal balance of aesthetics, functionality, and feasibility.

In the presentation stage, we produce high-quality renderings and models to visually convey the design intent. We gather client feedback to optimize the design plan.

Finally, during the construction implementation stage, we prepare detailed construction documents and personally supervise the on-site progress and quality, ensuring that the final outcome aligns with the original design intentions.

Throughout the entire process, we consistently emphasize innovation and collaboration, firmly believing that excellent design stems from a profound understanding of the project, an extreme pursuit of detail, and the collective efforts of the team.

Yes, China's cultural heritage has had a profound impact on my design process!

Firstly, traditional architectural styles play an important role in my designs. I often draw inspiration from ancient palaces, gardens, and temples, especially in aspects like spatial layout, color usage, and material selection. For example, traditional Chinese courtyards emphasize the harmony between humans and nature, which leads me to focus on integrating with the natural environment when designing modern buildings.

Secondly, local cultures and customs are factors I cannot overlook in my designs. Each region has its unique cultural background and lifestyle, and I strive to reflect these characteristics in my work to enhance people's sense of belonging and identity.

Furthermore, the emphasis on sustainable development and environmental protection in traditional Chinese culture deeply influences me. Ancient architecture often coexisted harmoniously with the natural environment, emphasizing ecological balance. I draw upon this wisdom in modern design, striving to create buildings that are both aesthetically pleasing and environmentally friendly.

In summary, China's cultural heritage has enriched my design perspective and deeply influenced my design philosophy and practice. I hope to inherit and promote these precious cultural elements through my works, allowing tradition and modernity to blend perfectly in design.

Thank you very much for your congratulations! Winning the 2024 MUSE Design Awards means a great deal to us. This is not only a high recognition of our team's hard work and talent but also an affirmation of our design philosophy and creativity. This honor fills us with immense pride and motivates us to continue pursuing excellence in future projects.

Additionally, the award has increased our company's visibility, allowing more people to become aware of our work. This will help us attract more clients and partners, expanding our business scope. The award showcases our professional capabilities and market competitiveness, strengthening our confidence to keep moving forward in the industry.

Our award-winning project is the Sanxia Bashu Middle School located in Wuxi County, within the Three Gorges region of Chongqing City. The project covers an area of approximately 93,000 square meters, with a total construction area of about 80,000 square meters.

It comprises 84 classes, including both high school and middle school levels. The school is fully equipped with teaching buildings, an auditorium, a gymnasium, a cafeteria, dormitories, outdoor activity areas, and connecting corridors, accommodating up to 4,200 students simultaneously.

I chose to submit this project because it is the first prestigious middle and high school in the Three Gorges region of Chongqing, holding significant social importance and influence. Being part of this project made me feel that I was contributing to the field of education, creating a better learning environment for local students. Participating in a project that can have a positive impact on society fills me with immense pride and a sense of purpose.

The biggest challenge of this project lies in the significant elevation difference of the site. From the highest point to the lowest point, there's a difference of 54 meters, equivalent to an 18-story building. This brought great difficulty to the design, as we needed to cleverly handle the terrain while ensuring functionality, achieving harmony between the architecture and the environment.

To address this, we conducted an in-depth analysis of the terrain features and adopted the design philosophy of "adapting measures to local conditions and leveraging the natural terrain." We distributed the building complex along the mountain slope, utilizing the elevation difference to create rich spatial layers.

By connecting various functional areas with corridors and walkways, we made daily use convenient for teachers and students. This challenge stimulated our creativity, ultimately achieving a perfect combination of functionality and aesthetics.

Winning design awards has had a profound impact on my professional career.

Firstly, it has elevated my professional reputation, enhancing clients' and partners' trust in my design philosophy. This increased trust has brought more project opportunities and encouraged me to innovate boldly.

Secondly, receiving the award has allowed me to connect with outstanding talents in the industry. Through events and seminars, I have exchanged experiences and inspirations with peers, laying a foundation for future collaborations.

Additionally, the award has motivated me to continuously raise my design standards, paying greater attention to the integration of functionality, aesthetics, and social impact. I strive to incorporate human-centered and sustainable elements into my designs.

Overall, winning the award not only affirms my past efforts but also inspires me to continue exploring and growing within the industry.

The three aspects I most appreciate about the architectural design industry are:

First, creativity and expression. Every project is a new challenge, allowing me to transform ideas and concepts into physical spaces, creating unique works that impact people's lives and experiences.

Second, social impact. By improving living environments through design and creating meaningful public spaces, I contribute to community development. Seeing my work bring positive effects to others fills me with immense pride.

Lastly, continuous learning and growth. This industry integrates art, science, and technology, requiring constant acquisition of new knowledge and skills. Collaborating with professionals from different fields broadens my horizons and challenges me. The ongoing development and innovation keep me passionate and drive me to pursue excellence.

China's design industry is uniquely characterized by its profound cultural heritage, advanced technological applications, and inclusiveness of diverse cultures. As the saying goes, "The deeper you are rooted in history, the further you can envision the future."

Five thousand years of civilization have provided designers with endless inspiration, allowing them to integrate traditional cultural elements into modern design and create works that combine cultural depth with contemporary aesthetics. The application of advanced digital technology, smart buildings, and new materials has significantly enhanced design efficiency and precision, expanding the possibilities of what can be achieved.

Moreover, the diversity of regional cultures and openness to innovation enable designers to explore various styles and concepts, promoting interdisciplinary collaboration and industry development. These unique attributes allow China's design industry to showcase its distinctive charm and influence on the global stage.

The design industry of the future will undergo profound changes, exhibiting the following trends:

Firstly, sustainable design and environmental awareness will become central. Green buildings and eco-friendly designs will become industry standards. Designers will place greater emphasis on the use of environmentally friendly materials and the improvement of energy efficiency.

Secondly, intelligent and digital transformation will completely change design methods. The application of the Internet of Things, artificial intelligence, and big data will enable smart buildings to provide more efficient energy management and personalized user experiences.

Thirdly, human-centered design and community orientation will receive increased attention. Design will focus on people, creating spaces that promote interpersonal interaction and providing inclusive solutions for different groups.

Fourthly, interdisciplinary collaboration will become the norm. Design will integrate knowledge from architecture, environmental science, engineering, and social sciences to address complex challenges.

Lastly, the application of virtual reality and augmented reality technologies will deeply penetrate design, presentation, and client communication, enhancing efficiency and effectiveness.

Overall, driven by technological innovation and humanistic care, the design industry will move toward a more sustainable, intelligent, and people-oriented future.

Maintain a lifelong learning mindset: Delve deeply into classic theories, master the latest software tools, continuously update your knowledge base, and enhance your professional skills.

Actively practice and accumulate experience: By participating in internships, design competitions, and projects, test and improve your design abilities, and stimulate creativity.

Modestly accept feedback and continuously improve yourself: Be open to advice from mentors, peers, and clients; consistently refine your work and strive for perfection.

Maintain enthusiasm and perseverance: In the face of industry challenges and the long journey ahead, use your love and dedication to design as motivation, and continuously pursue innovation and excellence.

In summary, lifelong learning, active practice, accepting feedback, and maintaining passion are my suggestions to all who aspire to become outstanding designers.

For those looking to improve their skills in the design industry, I recommend the following resources:

Firstly, expanding foundational knowledge: It's advisable to read classic architectural and design books, such as Robert Venturi's "Complexity and Contradiction in Architecture" and Tim Brown's "Change by Design". Regularly reading professional journals like "Architectural Digest", "Dezeen", and "ArchDaily" can help solidify your professional foundation, broaden your design thinking, and keep you informed about the latest design trends and technological developments.

Secondly, skill enhancement and learning: Utilize online education platforms like Coursera, edX, and MasterClass to study courses on architectural theory, software applications, and sustainable design. Particularly, take advantage of open courses from prestigious institutions like MIT, Harvard University, and the Architectural Association School of Architecture (AA School) in the UK.

Simultaneously, master commonly used professional software such as AutoCAD, SketchUp, Revit, and Rhino. Improve your technical proficiency through learning resources like YouTube tutorials and Udemy online courses.

Thirdly, practice and inspiration acquisition: Participate in architectural exhibitions and design competitions, such as international events like the Venice Architecture Biennale and various international and domestic design contests. This will help you test your design abilities and gain inspiration. Additionally, engage in field visits and tours to personally experience different design styles and philosophies.

Lastly, career development and networking: Join industry communities and networks such as LinkedIn design groups, local architects' associations, professional forums, and seminars. Sharing experiences with other professionals, participating in collaborative projects, and expanding your network can greatly benefit your career.

By comprehensively utilizing these resources, you can significantly enhance your design skills and stay abreast of the latest trends in industry development.

In my life, the person who inspires me the most is my wife. She is not only my partner but also the strongest support in my professional career. Faced with work pressures and challenges, she has always given me unconditional support and encouragement, giving me the courage to explore new design directions. Whenever I feel tired or confused, her trust and understanding warm my heart and reignite my passion for design.

Although she does not work in the architectural industry, her unique sense of aesthetics and insights often help me identify shortcomings in my designs. Her companionship is like a beacon, guiding me forward. She is the most precious asset in my life and the greatest source of motivation in my career. Her love and support make me firmly believe that, no matter what difficulties I face, I can move forward bravely.

I am not fixated on the word "success." Everything I have today is not only the result of hard work but also a blessing from fate. If I were to share some insights, I would say: strive with all your might and leave the rest to destiny. I believe that destiny will never neglect those who put in the effort.