Architecture Competition MICROHOME / Edition #5 Honorable mention winner – Cardiff University

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to one of our Honorable mention winner for our "MICROHOME / Edition #5" competition – Chuyu Zhang from China!

Chuyu Zhang from China

I am graduated from Cardiff University with a degree of BSc. Architecture RIBA part1. I used to be an intern at Beijing Institute of Architectural Design Ltd.

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?

In the past three years, I have done many types and scales of design，I realized architecture can be express and perceived in different scale from large site to residential to furniture, and each element of architecture is helpful to catalyze dialogue with users.

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

In my philosophy, Building can express architect’s speculation about history, culture and memories, and at the same time guide the audience's attention, which is a socially interactive way of expression. 

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Honestly, this is also the first time I participated in architecture competition, I hope to continue improving my design skills during my gap year, I think this is a good opportunity to let more professional practitioner see and comment on my design.

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

Don't think too much about whether you can win the prize, The most important thing is to complete your design on time, show your ideas and improve yourself in the process.