Architecture Competition Office Design Challenge / Edition #2 3rd prize winners – Shujian You and Yuxin Hu

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 3rd prize winners of our "Office Design Challenge / Edition #2" competition – Shujian You and Yuxin Hu from United States!

3rd prize winners from United States

Shujian You is an Architectural Designer at Grimshaw Architects, with a Master of Architecture from University of Michigan.

Yuxin Hu is an Architectural Designer and Building Envelope Consultant at DeSimone Consulting Engineers' Facades group, with a Master of Science in Advanced Architectural Design from Columbia University.

As a team, we bring a shared passion for design and a practical understanding of building science to our projects. We engage in close collaboration with architects, clients, and contractors, working together to visualize design intent and translate it into functional details, while also fostering consensus among stakeholders. Our extensive expertise guarantees exceptional outcomes that work, inspire people and transform communities.

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?

Our team has actively participated in numerous design competitions, cultivating a strong interest in a wide range of projects, including renovations, workplace designs, and housing developments. We firmly believe that integrating sustainability principles, innovative spatial prototype, and thoughtful detailing can significantly enhance the daily user experience of these spaces.

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

With an educational background spanning China and the United States, we have witnessed the transformative changes taking place in the field of architecture. The dynamic nature of architecture is evident as it continues to evolve in response to various factors and societal demands. From advancements in technology and sustainable design practices to shifts in cultural influences and urban planning, the architectural landscape is constantly adapting to meet the evolving needs of our society. It is an exciting time to be part of this profession, where innovation and creativity are shaping the way we live, work, and interact with our built environment.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architecture competitions play a vital role in expanding our horizons beyond daily work settings. They create a space for creativity and exploration, allowing us to integrate innovation, sustainability, and humanity into our designs. Focusing heavily on crucial societal issues, like built enviroment and environmental disasters, they provide an opportunity to explore ideas that promote environmental responsibility, energy efficiency, and sustainable design practices, enabling us to contribute to shaping a more sustainable and socially conscious built environment.

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

We would advise them to start with finding the topics they are interested in and then evaluate previous editions of the competition they are considering. This analysis helps gauge the level of competition and assess whether it aligns with their goals and aspirations. This proactive research and evaluation process can be a solid step in their decision to participate in architecture competitions.