How Sara (Yuxuan) Hua and Wenyu Du Created Lens and M.Lab to Inspire New Experiences

My advice is simple: Stay foolish and stay clear-headed.

You must accept that the design process is not just about building; it is about constantly breaking and rebuilding. A great concept only emerges after you have shattered your initial ideas and reconstructed them into something stronger.

The same applies to your growth as a designer. You improve not by staying safe, but by constantly deconstructing your own knowledge and rebuilding your skills. Don't be afraid of the destruction; it is the only way to evolve.

I would choose the Japanese architect Kiyonori Kikutake, a founding figure of the Metabolism movement.

My own design philosophy focuses heavily on architectural fluidity—the idea that a building should not be static, but should adapt and flow with time. This deeply resonates with Kikutake’s Metabolist vision, which viewed cities and structures as living organisms capable of growth, renewal, and metabolic change. I would love to collaborate with him to explore how we can apply those biological principles of 'growth' to modern architecture using today's technology.

I wish they would ask: 'How do you measure the success of a project?'

My answer would be: By the feeling it evokes.

Architecture is often judged by its form or utility, but I believe the most important standard is intangible. It is about the atmosphere. When you step into a space (or look at a drawing), does it change your mood? Does it connect with you? To me, a good design is one that transcends visual logic and communicates directly with the senses.

China’s uniqueness in the design industry stems from its rich cultural heritage combined with modern innovation. Traditional architectural typologies embody values of community, spatial hierarchy, and harmony with nature, which are creatively reinterpreted in contemporary design.

The ability to merge ancient wisdom with modern technologies to address complex design challenges makes China stand out in the realm of architecture.

In the next 5–10 years, we believe the design industry will place greater emphasis on sustainability and adaptive reuse, leveraging these practices to reduce environmental impact and preserve cultural heritage. At the same time, the integration of machine learning and AI will transform design processes, enabling smarter, data-driven decisions that enhance functionality and user experience.

These advancements will foster more personalized, efficient, and environmentally conscious solutions, shaping a future where design remains both innovative and sustainable.

Nurture curiosity and continually learn from peers. Engage actively with a community of designers, participate in workshops and forums, and stay open to new ideas and techniques. This approach will not only enhance your creativity but also deepen your understanding of diverse design philosophies and practices.