Interview with Yuanwan Huang | Inspired by Heritage, Driven by Innovation

I am an architect with a Master’s degree in Architecture from Washington University in Saint Louis, specialising in concept, structure, and cultural design. Currently, I work at HKS Architects in Chicago, where I contribute to major projects such as Microsoft’s data centres and other commercial developments. My career spans multiple renowned firms including Kengo Kuma & Associates in Tokyo and East China Architectural Design & Research Institute in Shanghai.

I’ve received multiple prestigious awards for my work. I am also passionate about sustainable design, holding LEED AP certifications, and actively contributing to innovative architectural projects like "Coral City," focusing on environmental sustainability.

I chose to become a designer because architecture has always been a part of my life. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the field of architecture, I was constantly surrounded by discussions about design, creativity, and the impact of the built environment. This exposure cultivated my love for architecture from an early age and instilled in me an appreciation for how design can transform spaces and improve lives.

What drew me to this path was the perfect blend of art and science that architecture offers. It allows me to explore my creativity while addressing real-world challenges. Through my projects, I strive to carry forward the legacy of my family while expressing my unique vision, creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspiring.

Currently, I am an architecture designer and work at HKS, Inc., a globally famous architecture and design firm based in Dallas (one of the top 10 architecture firms in the world). My role primarily focuses on architectural design and technical coordination for large-scale projects like Microsoft data centres. Additionally, I contribute to the Serverfarm data centre projects.

Design is about creating solutions that go beyond functionality to evoke emotions, tell stories, and improve lives. It’s a process of translating ideas and aspirations into tangible forms that people can experience and interact with. Design isn’t just about aesthetics—it’s about understanding the needs of people, the context of a space, and the broader impact on the environment and society.

My favourite kind of design is minimalist architecture, particularly the work of Kazuyo Sejima. I deeply admire her use of white structures and glass, which create a sense of openness, lightness, and harmony with the surrounding environment. This approach highlights the beauty of simplicity while emphasising functionality and connection to space.

This minimalist aesthetic isn’t just about reducing elements; it’s about achieving a delicate balance where every detail has purpose and meaning. I find inspiration in how Sejima’s designs evoke calmness and clarity while maintaining an innovative edge. It’s a philosophy that resonates with my own design values and influences my work.

A ‘good’ design is one that seamlessly integrates functionality, aesthetics, and purpose. It also stands the test of time. It’s sustainable, adaptable, and meaningful. It doesn’t overwhelm but rather complements its environment and serves the needs of its users. In my own work, I strive to achieve this balance by creating designs that are both innovative and deeply connected to the people and places they serve.

The idea for this project stemmed from the desire to create a dynamic space that serves as both a commercial hub and a cultural landmark for Saint Louis. Situated at the intersection of North 10th Street and Lucas Avenue, the site’s vibrant urban context and the surrounding low-rise commercial buildings inspired a design that would stand out while integrating harmoniously with its environment.

The idea for this award-winning design was inspired by the site’s unique context and my focus on creating a distinctive 'concrete skin' for the building. The commercial environment of the area, surrounded by low-rise structures and with the future park to the east, played a significant role in shaping the design approach.

I wanted to create a building that stood out as both an architectural statement and a functional part of the urban fabric. The site’s dynamic nature required a design that would balance privacy and openness, function and aesthetics.

Yes, I believe my cultural heritage has a significant impact on my design process. Growing up in a family of architects, I was always immersed in the values of craftsmanship, innovation, and respect for both tradition and modernity. My country’s rich architectural history, with its deep connections to nature, community, and functionality, has shaped how I approach design. I find inspiration in the way traditional and contemporary design elements can coexist, creating spaces that are timeless yet relevant to today’s needs.

For me, it’s a reflection of the values I hold as a designer—innovating with purpose, responding to context, and always striving for excellence.

The project I entered into the London Design Awards is a dynamic commercial and art complex located at the intersection of North 10th Street and Lucas Avenue in Saint Louis. This work combines retail spaces, office areas, exhibition halls, and parking facilities, all within a vibrant urban environment. The defining feature of the design is its sculptural concrete façade, which transitions from dense to open in a fluid, curving pattern.

The façade was carefully crafted to optimise both aesthetics and function—offering transparency and natural light in some areas while ensuring privacy and shade in others. This innovative treatment harmonises with the surrounding low-rise buildings while making a bold architectural statement.

I chose to enter this project into the London Design Awards because it represents a perfect balance of creativity, technical innovation, and urban integration. The design embodies the idea of creating spaces that serve both practical and cultural needs, enhancing the surrounding environment and responding thoughtfully to the community’s needs.

Winning the award is a great honour, and it speaks to the effort we put into creating a building that’s not only visually striking but also deeply connected to its context.

One of the main challenges in this project was balancing the building’s diverse functions—commercial, office, exhibition, and parking—while maintaining a cohesive design language. Each space had different needs, from maximising natural light in the office areas to ensuring privacy in the terrace levels.

To overcome this, we focused on creating a flexible façade that could adapt to these varying requirements. The sculptural concrete skin, with its gradient pattern, allowed us to provide openness and transparency in some areas while using denser patterns to offer privacy and shade in others. This approach ensured that the design was both functional and visually unified.

Winning this award is a significant milestone in my career, and I believe it will have a profound impact on my future as a designer. First and foremost, it’s a recognition of the dedication and passion I put into my work, which motivates me to continue pushing creative boundaries and striving for excellence. It reaffirms my belief in the power of thoughtful design to transform spaces and enrich communities.

My top three favourite things about the design industry are its ability to create immersive aesthetic experiences, the power of transforming spaces, and the role of motion in enhancing user experience.

My approach to design always incorporates a deep understanding of motion and spatial experience. I believe that a good design should not only be beautiful but should also make people feel comfortable, inspired, and engaged. It’s about creating a lasting impact through thoughtful, intentional design that stands the test of time and enhances the lives of those who experience it.

One major trend I foresee is the increased integration of technology and smart systems into design. From AI-powered tools for design optimisation to smart buildings that respond to user behaviour, technology will continue to transform how we approach everything from architecture to interior design.

This will not only enhance efficiency but also allow us to create more responsive, adaptive environments that cater to the specific needs of the people who inhabit them.

My advice for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs is to focus on a few key principles: passion, innovation, and the ability to connect with both the user and the environment.

I recommend the websites like Archdaily, Dezeen, Designboom, and Pinterest.

During some of my lowest points, I’ve often felt confused about my path in design. There have been times when I questioned whether I was truly on the right journey or if I was just following expectations. It was a period of self-doubt where the pressure to constantly innovate and succeed seemed overwhelming.

What I’ve learned through those moments, however, is the importance of embracing uncertainty and allowing myself to grow through the struggle. These experiences have ultimately shaped my approach to design, helping me to value resilience, trust the process, and find clarity in the midst of confusion. Now, I see those low periods not as failures, but as moments that pushed me to refine my vision and reconnect with my passion.

My family and friends have been my greatest inspiration. Their support, guidance, and belief in me have shaped my journey. I see life as my own stage, where every experience, good or bad, is an opportunity to learn, grow, and design a path that reflects my true self.

My key to success is perseverance and staying true to my passions. Challenges are inevitable, but they are opportunities to grow and refine your skills. I believe in balancing creativity with practicality, and always remaining open to learning. Success comes from pushing boundaries, staying resilient, and being authentic.

My parting words of wisdom: Embrace every experience as a stepping stone, and trust the process, knowing that each moment contributes to your personal and professional evolution. Keep moving forward with purpose.