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Yafei Zhang

Yafei Zhang, BIM Lead at KPF, has shaped transformative projects like the Meta Office in New York and the University of Michigan Center for Innovation. As Regional Lead of Women in BIM, she champions gender diversity in construction tech.

1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.

My design journey began at UCLA's Graduate School of Architecture, and I am now a registered architect in New Jersey. Currently, I serve as the BIM Lead at KPF, specializing in the integration of advanced BIM technologies to streamline complex urban renewal projects.

Throughout my career, I have worked on transformative projects such as the Meta Office at New York and the University of Michigan Center for Innovation. I have also led award-winning sustainable designs like 'Module Cube,' which won the Silver Prize at the 2024 MUSE Design Awards.

I’m passionate about BIM Technology application and sustainable design, exemplified by my work on projects like the Bund Fosun Center in Wuhan. As the Regional Lead of Women in BIM, I advocate for gender diversity and inclusion in construction tech.

I strive to create designs that balance technology and artistry, aiming to make architecture that’s both functional and inspiring.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?

I became a designer because I’ve always believed that architecture has the power to tell stories and transform lives. Growing up, I was drawn to spaces that felt alive – places where every corner, every detail, seemed to have a purpose.

Whether it was the natural flow of a city or the quiet beauty of a well-designed room, I saw design as a way to bring meaning and depth to everyday life.

However, I have also witnessed severe pollution issues driven by architectural constructions. Since then, I have aimed to design green buildings with exquisite space structures.

It wasn’t just the visual aspect that excited me, but the idea of creating environments where people can truly thrive. I wanted to use my creativity to craft spaces that inspire, challenge, and support people in meaningful ways.

Over time, that passion evolved into an interest in blending art with technology, and I’ve focused my career on using cutting-edge tools like BIM to create not just functional spaces, but innovative, sustainable ones that make a lasting impact.

Design allows me to bring my ideas to life while contributing to the world around me, and it’s this combination of creativity, problem-solving, and purpose that keeps me so passionate about what I do.

3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.

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 Meta 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 Women in BIM (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.

4What does “design” mean to you?

To me, design is much more than aesthetics—it’s about creating experiences and solving problems. Design is the language through which we shape the world around us, making it functional, meaningful, and engaging.

It’s a process of understanding people’s needs and desires, and translating those insights into spaces, products, or systems that enhance their lives. At its core, design is about connection—connecting people to their environments, to each other, and to the future. It’s about blending art and function, imagination and practicality.

Whether it's through a building, a product, or a digital tool, design is an opportunity to leave a lasting impact and create something that resonates with others on a deeper level.

In architecture, design is about crafting environments that foster community, encourage well-being, and respect the natural world. It’s a thoughtful balance of creativity and responsibility, making sure that the spaces we create are not just beautiful, but also sustainable, inclusive, and adaptable to the needs of the people who will use them.

5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?

My favorite kind of design is green buildings that challenges traditional boundaries while embracing sustainability and efficiency. The 'Module Cube' project is a perfect example of this. It’s a design that combines modularity with cutting-edge sustainable principles, aiming to create a flexible, efficient space that minimizes waste and reduces environmental impact.

What I love most about 'Module Cube' is its ability to be both innovative and sustainable. The modular design allows for the configuration of the structure in various ways, making it suitable for different functions and environments. It’s a design that’s not only aesthetically striking but also addresses the growing demand for sustainable solutions in architecture.

This project embodies my passion for creating designs that have a long-lasting impact—ones that are both visually captivating and functional, while also being mindful of the resources we use. 'Module Cube' represents how good design can align with forward-thinking sustainability, offering a glimpse into the future of architecture.

6To you, what makes a “good” design?

To me, a “good” design is one that strikes a perfect balance between functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. It goes beyond looking beautiful—it serves a purpose, enhances the experience of the people who interact with it, and contributes positively to the environment.

A good design is thoughtful and intuitive, understanding the needs of its users and adapting to them in a seamless way. It’s not just about solving a problem, but about elevating the experience of that solution—whether it’s through a well-lit space that fosters collaboration, or a building that blends harmoniously with its surroundings.

Sustainability is also crucial. A good design doesn’t just consider the immediate needs but also thinks about the long-term impact—on people, on the planet, and on future generations. It incorporates eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and smart technologies without sacrificing beauty or innovation.

Ultimately, a good design leaves a lasting impression—it’s timeless, adaptable, and meaningful, and it has the power to make the world a better place, one thoughtful detail at a time.

7Describe your design style and its main characteristics.

For the "Module Cube" project, my design style is centered around minimalism, flexibility, and sustainability. The main characteristics of this design are:

Modular Efficiency: The project is based on a modular concept, where each unit can be individually adapted, reconfigured, or scaled to suit different needs.

This flexibility allows the space to evolve over time, making it a dynamic solution for various functions, whether residential, commercial, or cultural.

Simplicity and Modular Form: The design embraces a minimalist approach with clean, geometric forms that highlight functionality over unnecessary ornamentation. The cube’s simple yet bold shape provides a timeless aesthetic while offering efficient use of space.

Sustainability: Sustainability is at the heart of the project. The design focuses on using eco-friendly materials, optimizing energy efficiency, and reducing waste during construction.

By adopting modular construction techniques, the project minimizes environmental impact while ensuring long-term adaptability.

Natural Light and Open Spaces: I prioritize the use of natural light and open, airy interiors. Large windows and transparent elements blur the boundaries between indoor and outdoor spaces, making the environment feel more connected to nature.

Innovative Technology Integration: Technology plays a key role in the design of "Module Cube," particularly in terms of energy management and building systems.

The project incorporates smart BIM technologies that promote efficiency, making it a forward-thinking solution for modern living and working spaces.

Overall, the "Module Cube" is a design that harmonizes beauty, utility, and sustainability, creating a space that is both inspiring and responsible.

8Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?

Winning the 2024 MUSE Design Awards is a tremendous honor for me. This recognition is a testament to our commitment to pushing the boundaries of sustainable design and modular innovation with projects like "Module Cube."

It’s incredibly meaningful to have my work acknowledged on an international platform, especially one that values creativity, quality, and impact in design.

This recognition motivates me to keep innovating and setting new standards for how architecture can respond to the challenges of today while remaining flexible for the needs of tomorrow. Winning this award isn’t just a milestone; it’s an encouragement to pursue even bolder and more meaningful projects in the future.

9Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

"Module Cube" is a project that exemplifies my approach to sustainable, adaptable, and technologically advanced design. It’s a modular structure built with flexibility in mind, allowing each unit to be configured and customized for a variety of uses, from residential to commercial applications.

This modularity is key to reducing both construction time and waste, as units can be reconfigured and reused as needs evolve.

A critical element of "Module Cube" is the integration of advanced BIM (Building Information Modeling) technology, which played a transformative role in the project’s design, planning, and implementation.

With BIM, I was able to streamline every phase—from precise material usage calculations to seamless coordination between design, engineering, and construction teams. With my innovative all-in-one tool, BIM allowed me to optimize energy efficiency, simulate environmental impacts, and reduce waste by ensuring that each module was produced with exact specifications.

This approach not only minimized our carbon footprint but also ensured maximum efficiency, bringing my sustainable vision to life in the most effective way.

I chose to enter "Module Cube" into the 2024 MUSE Design Awards because it embodies my commitment to utilizing my cutting-edge unprecedented data-driven design to enhance sustainability.

This involved leveraging BIM to visualize and analyze the environmental impact of materials and energy systems, selecting eco-friendly materials, optimizing energy efficiency, and ensuring that buildings and infrastructure met rigorous environmental and health benchmarks, thereby enhancing the overall quality of urban living.

"Module Cube" demonstrates how advanced technology can blend with timeless design principles to create spaces that are adaptable, efficient, and responsible. Winning this award is a validation of our team’s hard work and our commitment to pushing boundaries, showing that design can be both visionary and sustainable.

10What was the biggest challenge with this project?

The biggest challenge with the "Module Cube" project was achieving a balance between flexibility, sustainability, and precision in a modular format. We wanted each unit of the Module Cube to be adaptable to a wide range of uses and environments while still maintaining a cohesive and efficient structure.

This required meticulous planning and innovation, especially in terms of materials, construction methods, and environmental impact. BIM technology was instrumental in overcoming this challenge.

Using BIM, we were able to model every aspect of the design down to the smallest detail, which allowed us to test multiple configurations, simulate structural performance, and optimize energy efficiency.

One of the most challenging aspects was coordinating all the individual components to ensure that each module could function as a standalone unit yet seamlessly connect with others. BIM made it possible to solve these complex issues early in the process, allowing us to identify potential design clashes, optimize the material usage, and streamline construction timelines.

Additionally, integrating sustainable materials that would work within a modular system was challenging, as we wanted to meet our high standards for eco-friendliness without compromising on durability or aesthetics. BIM allowed us to accurately track these materials and their sourcing, further aligning with our sustainability goals.

Ultimately, these challenges pushed us to innovate and refine the design, and overcoming them made the project even more rewarding and impactful.

11How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?

For me personally, the award has been a powerful motivator to continue pushing boundaries in architecture. It has reinforced my belief in the value of merging advanced technology like BIM with sustainable design principles.

It’s incredibly rewarding to see my hard work acknowledged, and this recognition has encouraged me to set even higher standards for future projects. Winning has not only validated my approach but has also inspired me to keep exploring creative, responsible ways to make an impact through architecture.

12Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?

Over the next 5 to 10 years, I see the design industry moving toward greater integration of technology, sustainability, and human-centered approaches, creating spaces that are adaptable, responsive, and highly sustainable. Here are some key trends I believe will shape this evolution:

Sustainable Design as a Standard: Sustainability will no longer be a value-add—it will be a foundational requirement. As climate change and resource scarcity become more pressing, designers will need to prioritize eco-friendly materials, energy efficiency, and waste reduction in every project.

Modular and adaptable design, like the approach in "Module Cube," will gain traction, as it minimizes resource use and extends the lifespan of buildings by allowing them to adapt to changing needs.

Advanced BIM and Digital Twins: BIM technology will evolve to become even more integrated into the design process, allowing for real-time collaboration and ultra-precise modeling.

Digital twins—virtual replicas of physical spaces will allow architects and designers to simulate performance, maintenance needs, and energy consumption in real-time, helping optimize the lifecycle of a building from concept to operation. This capability will improve the accuracy of sustainable design strategies and reduce long-term environmental impact.

Human-Centered and Adaptive Design: The industry will increasingly focus on creating spaces that adapt to users rather than the other way around. We’ll see more designs that prioritize mental health, wellness, and accessibility, such as spaces with natural light, adaptable layouts, and flexible work and living spaces.

Design will respond more to how people live, work, and interact in real-time, integrating adaptable layouts and multi-use spaces to meet evolving needs.

AI and Automation in Design: AI and machine learning will play a transformative role in optimizing design processes, analyzing user data, and making buildings “smarter.” From automating routine tasks to generating design variations, AI will speed up the design process while enhancing customization.

AI-driven analysis will help designers make data-backed decisions that improve everything from energy efficiency to user experience.

Cross-Disciplinary Collaboration: As design challenges become more complex, the industry will rely on cross-disciplinary teams that include architects, urban planners, engineers, technologists, and environmental scientists.

Collaboration will become a cornerstone, with technology like BIM facilitating coordination across these diverse fields. This approach will lead to more comprehensive and holistic designs that address environmental, social, and functional goals.

In summary, the next decade in design will prioritize sustainability, adaptability, and technology integration, creating spaces that are intelligent, user-centered, and aligned with environmental responsibility.

I’m excited to see these developments transform the industry, making design more inclusive, innovative, and impactful.

13If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?

My top advice is to design with purpose and sustainability in mind. From the start, focus on how your designs can make a positive difference, incorporating eco-friendly materials and methods to create spaces that are both functional and responsible.

Embracing technology like BIM early on is also crucial. These tools are essential for modern designers, allowing for precision, collaboration, and efficiency, which will give you a strong advantage as you enter the industry.

Additionally, stay committed to user-centered design—understanding the needs and behaviors of users helps guide thoughtful and impactful decisions, ultimately enhancing the value of your work.

Finally, be open to learning, seek mentorship, and build a strong professional network. Connect with experienced designers, attend industry events, and don’t be afraid to iterate and refine your ideas; innovation comes from a process of exploration and adaptation.

When presenting your work, craft a compelling story that captures your vision and purpose, as a strong narrative can make your work resonate with audiences and juries alike.

14What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?

To improve your design skills, start with online learning platforms like LinkedIn Learning, Skillshare, and Udemy, which offer courses ranging from beginner to advanced levels.

For more specialized content, ArchDaily Courses and Design Academy provide in-depth resources for architecture and design topics such as BIM and sustainability. These platforms allow you to learn at your own pace and focus on areas you want to improve.

Staying updated with industry trends is essential, and resources like ArchDaily, Dezeen, and Designboom offer articles, case studies, and project showcases. For BIM and tech-focused insights, AEC Magazine and BIM+ provide valuable content to enhance your knowledge in digital design tools.

Additionally, mastering design software through YouTube tutorials or BIMsmith is key, especially for tools like Revit, Rhino, and AutoCAD.

Books like Thinking Architecture by Peter Zumthor and Cradle to Cradle by William McDonough offer deeper insights into design principles and sustainable practices. Joining professional organizations such as AIA, USGBC/LEED, or Women in BIM provides networking opportunities, workshops, and educational events.

Engaging in design competitions and online forums like Archinect will also help you challenge yourself, receive feedback, and connect with the design community.

15What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

My key to success is a commitment to innovation driven by purpose and integrity. I believe designs should solve real-world problems, be sustainable, and adaptable to remain relevant over time.

Focusing on functionality and meaning ensures that each project leaves a lasting impact. This approach, combined with a strong foundation of sustainability, has guided me in creating solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also responsible.

Collaboration and continuous learning are also crucial to success. Building relationships with mentors, peers, and collaborators helps refine ideas and improves outcomes. The design world is constantly evolving, so staying curious and open to new ideas, technologies, and approaches is essential.

Pushing boundaries, experimenting, and embracing challenges as opportunities will ensure growth, keeping you passionate and impactful in the field.

White Pine Serenity | 2024

Module Cube | 2024

Yafei Zhang

Yafei Zhang, BIM Lead at KPF, has shaped transformative projects like the Meta Office in New York and the University of Michigan Center for Innovation. As Regional Lead of Women in BIM, she champions gender diversity in construction tech.


Explore the journey of Hsu Ti-Pin, the Gold Winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards. She is the director of Muyi Creation and a design consultant for top hospitality and architectural brands, with over a decade of experience refining materials and proportions to craft elegant, balanced spaces.

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