House of the Future 2024/25 competition Honorable mention winner - Xiaowei Bai

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Honorable mention winner of our House of the Future 24/25 competition – Xiaowei Bai from United States!

Xiaowei Bai

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

We are an architecture and design practice based in New York City. In our design, We are going through multiple layers of thinking and experimentation to refine the design outcome to pursue creativity with rationality at the same time.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

I’m currently involved in the design and construction administration of municipal and city-scale institutional projects across the U.S., collaborating closely with other architects and builders. We’re looking to take on larger-scale projects soon, as they offer greater community impact, richer design opportunities, and more dynamic collaboration with clients and builders.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

 For us, architecture is an integral part of daily life. It requires constant thinking, observation,exploration and experimentation. As architects, our role goes beyond designing and building; we are also responsible for envisioning the future physical and virtual environment.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

 Why not? It is a great way to do the design exercise.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

 Many important buildings and architects are recognized from design competitions. Also as I mentioned in the previous question, it is a great way to do the design exercise.