Designing for Cities and Communities: Interviewing Ruxuan Zheng, Yan Huo & Mingrui Jiang

Too often, cities are built in opposition to nature-pushing ecological systems to the margins or sealing them off behind infrastructure. In this project, we asked a different question: What if the edge between city and wetland wasn't a line of separation, but a space of connection?

Our interest in architecture grew from a fascination with cities and how people interact with built spaces. I’m particularly inspired by the integration of nature into urban environments and the role design plays in improving everyday life.

Yes, one of the unexpected challenges was understanding and responding to the needs and values of the local community. We spent time engaging with the community — listening to their concerns, daily routines, and aspirations. This process reshaped several aspects of the design, from material choices to public space functions, resulting in a final outcome that was not only more grounded in the local culture but also better received and supported by the people who would use it.

Our design process begins with thorough research of the site and its environment, focusing on how to integrate the building harmoniously with nature. We develop concepts that prioritize sustainability and responsiveness to the local context. Collaboration with clients and stakeholders ensures designs are both innovative and practical. During construction, we closely monitor progress to uphold environmental goals and adapt as necessary.

Complex, engaging and fulfilling.

One of the most meaningful pieces of feedback we’ve received is when people told us that the design truly transformed their lives. It’s incredibly rewarding to know that our work goes beyond aesthetics and function — it can make a real difference in how people live and experience their everyday environments. This kind of feedback inspires us to continue designing with empathy and purpose, always aiming to create spaces that genuinely improve quality of life.

Receiving this recognition means a great deal to us. It validates the hard work, creativity, and collaboration that we put into every project. More importantly, it motivates us to keep focusing on creating meaningful, impactful spaces that serve our clients and communities well.

This award inspires us to continue growing as designers and to take on more challenging and meaningful projects. It reinforces my commitment to innovative, sustainable, and community-focused design. Moving forward, we see it as a reminder to uphold high standards and to push the boundaries of what architecture can achieve, both for clients and for the broader environment.

We’ve been dreaming of designing a mixed-use urban space that seamlessly blends nature and community living. We believe the future of cities depends on reconnecting people with the environment, improving the quality of life while addressing climate challenges. Creating such spaces feels like a meaningful way to contribute to healthier, happier communities.

In the next decade, our team sees architecture evolving towards a stronger focus on ecological sustainability and thoughtful urban integration. We believe that addressing environmental challenges and enhancing city life must go hand in hand.

Together, we aim to create designs that not only reduce ecological impact but also enrich urban communities, building resilient, green, and inclusive spaces that respond to both nature and the needs of people.

Our design approach places strong emphasis on community development and creating sustainable neighborhoods that meet the evolving needs of cities. We believe that truly sustainable architecture goes beyond individual buildings—it involves fostering vibrant, resilient communities where social, economic, and environmental factors work together.

By focusing on inclusive public spaces, efficient resource use, and connectivity, we aim to support urban growth that is both sustainable and people-centered, helping cities thrive now and in the future.

If we could design anything without limits, we would create a self-sustaining urban eco-village that fully integrates green technology, community spaces, and natural landscapes. It would be a place where people live and connect with nature seamlessly, with zero carbon footprint and a strong emphasis on well-being and social interaction.

This project inspires us because it represents a future where architecture not only responds to environmental challenges but also fosters a deep sense of community and harmony with the planet.