Architecture Competition Milan Affordable Housing Challenge Sustainability Award winner – ZunYi Zhou

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Sustainability Award winner of our "Milan Affordable Housing Challenge" competition – ZunYi Zhou from China!

ZunYi Zhou from China

I am a senior student studying architecture related major. I am currently preparing for further studies, so participating in the competition this time is not only to exercise my various abilities, but also to try innovative thinking.

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

I believe that architecture is not an object without emotion, it is always closely connected with people and the environment, and together they build a harmonious social system. Architecture is created by designers, but it is not just the architect's personal preferences, it needs to be responsible for social and environmental issues, including but not limited to sustainable development, addressing inequality, etc.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I have participated in some architectural competitions, the purpose is not only to win awards, but more importantly, to challenge myself and get out of my comfort zone, so that I can always keep thinking and focusing on design. At the same time, participating in these competitions also helps me think about more social issues, and I look forward to contributing to solving these issues.

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

It is always an attractive thing for people who want to enter architectural competitions. It can help us learn and grow, and it also motivates us to keep learning from advanced ideas in the industry.