The Home of Shadows #2 competition participants - Yunhao Zhong and Haoming Zhu

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the participants of our "The Home of Shadows #2" competition – Yunhao Zhong and Haoming Zhu from United States!

Yunhao Zhong and Haoming Zhu

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 two architecture students from the Graduate School of Architecture, Planning and Preservation at Columbia University. We share a profound passion for architecture. Together, we explore what architecture truly is and whether it can be redefined.

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 projects cover a wide range, from small-scale residential buildings to large-scale museums and commercial complexes. Currently, we are focusing on the integration of architecture with emerging artificial intelligence technologies and exploring their impact on the architecture industry and society. We also have a strong appreciation for small-scale projects, which allow us to focus on intricate architectural details. Smaller projects provide the time and space to meticulously refine these elements, enhancing the overall quality and aesthetic of our work.

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

To us, architecture is not merely about buildings or the fusion of science and art; it is the ultimate medium through which people imagine the world and propel the development of civilization. Architects build dreams, empowered by systematic training and critical thinking, capable of transforming the world. Architecture is a dynamic system that can evolve into anything, breathing life and sometimes resembling music, poetry, politics, or solutions to societal issues. It represents interpretations of space by both architects and society, experiencing two births: first in the mind of the designer and second in the public's view, where it is imbued with endless life and meaning. Architecture functions like parentheses in a sentence, shaped and understood by architects and the public within their environmental context, impacting society in profound ways.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We participate in architecture competitions because they provide a unique platform to explore innovative ideas without the constraints of excessive regulations, allowing us to unleash our lifelong learning and showcase our strongest capabilities. These competitions offer the freedom to choose topics and conduct in-depth research, pushing our ideas to their fullest potential.

For Yunhao, it’s an opportunity to integrate his background in physics, emerging technologies, and drawing techniques.

For Haoming, it’s a fascinating way to express herself, especially in small-scale projects, allowing her to immerse in the design process and infuse her work with vitality and life. We believe great design can influence a broader audience, demonstrating the power of architecture to reshape society and drive progress.

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

For those struggling to decide whether participating in architecture competitions would be beneficial, my advice is simply: "Just do it." Participating in competitions offers an excellent opportunity for exploration and creativity. It's a chance to express your unique ideas and showcase your skills. Through these competitions, you can gain valuable experience, receive feedback from experts, and expand your professional network. Even if you don't win, the process itself is a significant learning experience that can help you grow as an architect.