Pape Info Point competition Sustainability Award winner - Zhu Xi

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Sustainability Award winner of our "Pape Info Point" competition – Zhu Xi from China!

Zhu Xi

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.

I completed my undergraduate studies in Architecture at Sichuan Agricultural University in China, where I gained a solid foundation in building physics, materials, and sustainable design. After graduation, I worked as a personal designer for a year, focusing on integrating cultural and environmental elements into architectural solutions. This hands-on experience further developed my skills in practical design and technical problem-solving. I am now preparing to pursue a Master's degree at KU Leuven in Belgium, where I aim to deepen my understanding of architecture's role in sustainability and human-centered design.

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 was a research team member for a project on the low-carbon thermal comfort mechanism of monastic buildings, focusing on Labrang Tashi Temple in Gannan. The project aimed to assess the thermal comfort of monks in the temple’s unique environment. My responsibilities included designing the research, collecting data, and analyzing climate conditions, as well as developing bilingual questionnaires for thermal comfort assessments. I also deployed measurement instruments to gather environmental parameters and conducted data analysis using indices like PMV and aPMV. The project resulted in a patent for an energy-efficient housing structure, a published paper on thermal comfort in monastic housing, and a Third Prize in the 4th National College “Green Building Design” Skills Competition for Monastic Housing Design.

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

To me, architecture is a bridge between human needs, cultural heritage, and the environment. It shapes how we experience the world, offering both comfort and identity through design. Architects play a vital role in society by creating spaces that reflect and support the values of the community while addressing environmental and social challenges. They have the responsibility to design with both sustainability and human well-being in mind, ensuring that buildings enhance the quality of life while respecting local culture and nature. As an architect, I believe in the power of design to improve daily life, foster connections, and create meaningful spaces that stand the test of time.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

I participate in architectural competitions to challenge myself creatively and refine my design skills. They provide a platform to explore new ideas, experiment with concepts, and push the boundaries of what is possible within given constraints. Competitions also help me think critically and solve complex design problems while receiving valuable feedback. Moreover, they allow me to showcase my work to a wider audience, which is a great way to build my portfolio and gain recognition. Ultimately, I see competitions as an opportunity for personal and professional growth, helping me develop both my technical expertise and creative vision.

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

I would encourage anyone unsure about participating in architectural competitions to give it a try. Competitions are an excellent opportunity to push your creative boundaries, explore new design ideas, and gain practical experience. They can also help you develop your problem-solving skills, as you often need to address real-world challenges within strict constraints. Beyond the technical and creative aspects, competitions offer a platform to showcase your work to a wider audience, including potential employers and collaborators. Even if you don’t win, the process of refining your ideas and receiving feedback can be incredibly valuable for personal and professional growth. Plus, it’s a great way to build your portfolio and gain recognition in the field.