Portfolio_Yiyu Zhou

YIYU ZHOU

Yiyu Zhou

EDUCATION

Southern California Institute of Architecture

Master of Architecture

Tamkang University

Bachelor of Architecture

HONOR & ACHIEVEMENT

SCI-Arc Thesis Scholarship

SCI-Arc Spring Show “SCI-Arc Night Live”

Projects “ENSPHERE” and “RELIEF PACKAGE” selected for exhibition

SCI-Arc Spring Show “The Land of Ahh's”

Projects “FLUIDIC ELEMANTARY SCHOOL” and “SYNTHETIC EPOCH” selected for exhibition

Tamkang University Graduation Design Exhibition “2051”

Project “PLANT FACTORY” selected for exhibition

2018 Best Design Award ( 3rd place in department )

Wang Chi-Kung Architectural Design Award, Tamkang University

EMPLOYMENT HISTORY

AECOM, Beijing | Intern

Huoying Building Complex with Transportation Junction

Participated in the development of the process model and creation of diagrams

Collaborated with the team to capture project milestones and dependencies

Participated in CD phase

Facilitated effective communication and collaboration among stakeholders

Produced renderings and related visual for the project

ATA Architectures & Planners | Intern

Guilin Resort Architectural Design

Participated in designing residential units and finishing drawings

Collaborated with team members to discuss architectural development plans

Developed site models

Tianjin Emerald Avenue Landscape Design

Participated in completing landscape design and drawings

Produced renderings and related visual for the project

SKILLS

Mandarin Chinese (Native), English (Fluent)

Rhino, Grasshopper, Zbrush, Blender, Cinema 4D, Revit, Maya

Keyshot, Twinmotion, Unreal Engine

Photoshop, Illustrator, Indesign, AutoCad, Microsoft Office Handdrawing, Laser Cutting, 3D Printing, CNC, Model Making

REFERENCES

Jenny Wu

Studio Professor, Principal of Oyler Wu Collaborative

Damjan Jovanovic

Faculty at SCI-Arc, Architect, Software designer

Kai Yan

Senior Architect, Department of Architecture, AECOM

(+1) 213-706-5094

yiyuzhou123@outlook.com

Sep 2021 - Sep 2023

LOS ANGELES, USA

Sep 2014 - Sep 2019

NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN

May 2023

LOS ANGELES, USA

Apr 2023

LOS ANGELES, USA

Apr 2022

LOS ANGELES, USA

Jun 2019

NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN

Sep 2017 - Jun 2018

NEW TAIPEI CITY, TAIWAN

TABLE OF CONTENTS

Sep 2019 - Nov 2019

BEIJING, CHINA

Jul 2017 - Sep 2017

BEIJING, CHINA

Language

3D Modeling Render

Presentation Fabrication

jenny_wu@sciarc.edu

damjan_jovanovic@sciarc.edu

kai.yan@aecom.com

HUTONG MEMORY

Year: 2017

Instructor: Chen-Cheng Chen

The DongSi district in Beijing is the chosen site for my project, known for its rich collection of hutongs—narrow alleyways that represent the city’s historical charm. Among these hutongs, Hutong One to Fourteen stands out as well-preserved examples of Beijing’s hutong culture.

As the city has undergone development, many residents have gradually moved away from the hutongs, leading to a decline in their population. This shift in demographics is noticeable.

To develop a meaningful design, I aim to capture the impressions of four elderly Beijingers who hold cherished memories of hutong living. Four key concepts—focus, shadow, track, and distance—guide my design process.

While we cannot fully recreate the past or restore the original essence of the hutongs, my goal is to use design as a medium to evoke the cherished recollections of those who once called these alleyways home. Through thoughtful design elements, I seek to reignite the wonderful memories and create a sense of nostalgia, connecting individuals with their past lives in the hutongs.

Many of the original living Spaces in hutongs have been converted. The hutongs in my memory are clean, without tra c or tourists. People like to put their furniture outside, and they like to sit in the doorway and talk to their neighbors.

FOCUS

Listening to pigeon whistles is an amazing experience. As soon as the pigeon ies, people can know where the pigeon is. The most interesting thing is that the distance a pigeon ies close and far can be judged by its sound.

Rickshaws used to be the main element in the hutong alley. Hutong alley is cascaded and complicated, and rich people used to choose rickshaws as transportation if they wanted to visit and handle a airs.

There are lots of Beijingers sitting under the big trees in the hutong to enjoy the cool. They sit together to chat and play chess. The shadows of the trees seemed to fall from the sky, covering the people below.

PIGEONRY

Combine the concepts of distance and focus

There were only public toilets in the hutongs, but people gave up their privacy and enhanced their relationship. People who raised pigeons used to build a loft on the roof. I hope to create a public loft next to the public toilet.

CLOTHES HANGER

Combine the concepts of shadow and distance

Hutong residents like to hang their clothes in front of their houses. The clothes hanging under the trees are special elements of the hutong.

BICYCLE STATION

Combine the concepts of track and shadow

People in the north of China are keen on riding bicycles to go out. The popularity of Shared bikes always leads to the phenomenon of bicycles being parked randomly in hutongs.

TEAHOUSE

Combine the concepts of focus and track

Teahouses have a special signi cance in Beijing. Before, people liked to chat and listen to operas in teahouses. I wanted a place that would remind people of life in the teahouse.

PLANT FACTORY

Year: 2019

Instructor: Yan-Wen

The Capital Steel Factory, nestled in the western district of Shijingshan in Beijing, holds tremendous significance as one of the invaluable marks on the city’s page. Over a century ago, the Beiyang government laid the foundation of this steel factory, marking a pivotal moment in its establishment. The factory experienced substantial growth during the steel industry’s rapid expansion in 1958, solidifying its role in the city’s development.

While the pursuit of novelty often dominates the discourse surrounding urban development, I hold a different perspective. I believe that an ideal city should not disregard its history and progress, but instead strive to integrate the old and the new. The marks imprinted on the city’s page bear immeasurable value, encapsulating the life and progress of the past. Unfortunately, many of these precious marks have fallen victim to acts of demolition. I find it disheartening to witness the relentless pursuit of the “newest” without proper consideration of the city’s historical fabric.

Preserving the historical legacy and development journey of a city is paramount. By embracing the coexistence of old and new, we can create a harmonious urban tapestry that honors the city’s rich heritage while embracing progress. It is within this approach that the true essence of an ideal city resides, one that cherishes its history, values its marks, and paves the way for a sustainable and inclusive future.

Plant heavy metal-absorbing vegetation

Implement parterre on the concrete and insert the stirred soil

Step_04 Distribution map of heavy metal pollutant zinc

Step_05 Distribution map of heavy metal pollutant cadmium

Turn polluting factories into plant plants

The factory was torn down, leaving its original structure

Former factory

The pillars and pits are the points and lines on the site

Shao

Step.01 Site status

Step.02 Divided into six areas according to the texture Step.03 Break existing texture

Step.04 Put the programs

Step.05 Raise the ground

Step.06 Arrange the waters Step.07 Place the path

Step.08 Bird-watching platform

Shrubs can absorb heavy metal pollutants and use bioremediation to improve the soil over a ten-year period.

After bioremediation is complete, the original shrubs can be removed and ornamental plants can be planted.

Five years later, the factory floor was filled with purified soil and planted with zinc and cadmium-absorbing shrubs. Water circulation purification is achieved by transporting water over the original factory structure for irrigation.

Ten years later, soil remediation was completed, transitioning the previously treated areas from shrubs to ornamental plants. Additionally, roads and bird-watching platforms designed for tourists have started to emerge in the vicinity.

After fifteen years, the magnificent arboretum was completed. The central square proudly houses two expansive plant greenhouses, complemented by an exquisite outdoor botanical garden brimming with a variety of stunning ornamental plants.

Shrub Deciduous Coniferous

ENSPHERE

Year: 2022

Instructor: Jenny Wu

This project explores the transformative potential of geometric primitives. The project aimed to bridge the gap between the abstract and the architectural by focusing on assembly methods and spatial consequences. The initial exploration involved a primitive puzzle consisting of interlocking parts, emphasizing the narrative of disassembly and highlighting the spatial relationships between the interconnected pieces. The resulting configuration inspired the idea of utilizing the primitive puzzle as a foundation for a building.

Situated in downtown LA’s vibrant heart, near The Broad, the project envisioned a site that would transcend its current use as a parking lot. The objective was to create a building and landscape that extended the original museum space and established meaningful connections with the surrounding neighborhood. Drawing inspiration from the sphere puzzle, we deconstructed and transformed it through various moves such as scaling, rotating, and adding or removing pieces. The resulting building volumes were strategically placed on the site, with the original key elements serving as focal points that guide the flow of people. To maintain the spatial relationships from the initial puzzle, the transformed building volumes were seamlessly integrated with a newly designed topography, providing an inviting entrance for visitors. This architectural endeavor aimed to explore the possibilities offered by geometric primitives.

The building volumes are mainly divided into two halves placed on the base; they come from the process of decomposition and transformation of the sphere puzzle. The keys in the original plan still function as keys to the two large spatial assemblages in the architectural space. The two keys in the building are the main spaces for changing the flow of people. We tried to preserve the spatial relationship between the different blocks of the original plan in the process of transforming the plan into a building. The transformed building volumes are combined with the newly designed topography to create a gap for people to enter.

Physical models of this project are built in 3/32” = 1’0” and 1/16” = 1’-0” by 3D printing, to show the detail inside the section and the relationship between building and overall landscape. To showcase the materiality of the design, In terms of material selection for the physical model, becides the spraypaints, copper, nickel, and zinc are are plated on the model.

Circulation & Physical section Model

RELIEF PACKAGE

Year: 2023

Instructor: Ramiro Diaz-Granados

Partner: Wan-Yu Chen

This project focuses on addressing the issue of food scarcity in Allensworth, a community located in California’s Central Valley. The area, despite being agriculturally rich, lacks access to fresh and nutritious food, leading to it being classified as a food “desert.” To combat this problem, the project aims to establish a farm lab that serves as a hub for sustainable agriculture.

The farm lab will act as an educational and innovative space, where individuals can learn about sustainable farming practices and participate in workshops. It will also foster collaboration between farmers, farmworkers, and other stakeholders in the food sector. By creating a network that connects local farmers, suppliers, and distributors, the project seeks to promote the production, distribution, and consumption of fresh, locally sourced food.

The goal is to transform Allensworth into a vibrant community with improved access to fresh produce. By integrating architecture, agriculture, and sustainability, the project envisions a future where the farm lab becomes a center of agricultural excellence. It will empower the community to take control of their food systems and build resilience.

This project has two phases and uses a system to move different parts. It considers the local climate, farming practices, and the community’s schedule. First, the design is delivered and unpacked to create the foundation. In the first phase, accessible spaces and amenities are placed on the base. In the second phase, programs related to the school are added based on the school’s schedule.

In the second phase, educational spaces like classrooms, labs, and communal areas are added onto the foundation. These spaces prioritize an optimal learning environment through elements like natural light, ventilation, and sustainability. Movable and fixed greenhouses are integrated to facilitate planting and practical learning experiences.

The gantry system plays a crucial role in this project. We have reimagined the gantry as a beast-like character that remains present even after construction, becoming part of the ongoing assemblage. Similar to oxen pulling a cart, this beast-like gantry performs tasks by stacking and arranging program spaces, reshaping the landscape. It not only provides essential infrastructure such as elevators, stairs, and energy but also brings delight and affection as a character. To bring this concept to life, we will use AI text-to-image generators and 3D modeling techniques to transform the industrial gantry into beast-like characters. These characters not only assist in construction but also engage in seasonal performances within the assemblage. They also incorporate water storage and a greenhouse, serving as an overview point for Allensworth.

In summary, the gantry system is transformed into beast-like characters that contribute to the ongoing assemblage. They perform construction tasks, entertain through seasonal performances, and provide essential functionalities like water storage and a greenhouse.

FLUIDIC ELEMENTARY SCHOOL

Year: 2021

Instructor: Jeremy Karmal Hartley

Partner: Hanna Park

The design studio focuses on the evolving role of the classroom in the midst of a profound global pandemic. At this critical juncture, the world is grappling with profound questions about the significance of the classroom and the varying levels of access that different institutions, cities, and countries possess. Millions of students are experiencing a fundamentally different model of education, one that is relentlessly challenged by a myriad of constraints, including social, technological, physical, and ethical considerations.

Embracing the concept of fluidity, our project seeks to inform the functions, forms, spaces, and furnishings of our design. Every element, from the chairs to the classrooms, the building envelope, and the broader landscape, is deeply influenced by fluidic movement and form. Our concept envisions a future where students have increased agency in choosing how they engage with their classes and utilize the spaces in which learning takes place.

Recognizing the paramount importance of student safety, we advocate for the integration of puffy furniture within the design. By combining functionality with an engaging and playful aesthetic, puffy furniture not only evokes a sense of joy and creativity but also emphasizes the safety and well-being of students. Building upon this concept, we have utilized Cinema 4D to design a puffy chair, which subsequently serves as the foundation for developing the texture, pattern, and overall aesthetics of the classroom and the entire school.

For clusters, fluidity is embodied through melting. Where the classroom units merge, there are jelly-like playgrounds on which students can climb, with fabric floors and chairs to protect them from injury. For landscape, fluidity is embodied through change. There is a ripple-shaped landscape around each building, as well as Thom’s building. These elevated walkways are fluid movement and access to different elevations. Therefore, children can get access to important view lines on the site. All elements of the school will be a play tool for children. Therefore, this fluidic school can be a big playground itself.

MYCOLOGY LAB

Year: 2022

Instructor: Herwig Baumgartner

Partner: Xinyuan Yue

The studio is undertaking the design of a 150,000-square-foot BIO-TECH building in El Segundo, Los Angeles County. This project entails considering the interests of various stakeholders in this evolving building type.

Aligned with the goal of achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, Company Bio, founded by the United Nations, seeks to replicate fungi’s efficient carbon absorption behavior. Clean energy can be generated by collecting and processing excess carbon from the environment, particularly greenhouse gases. Research shows that fungi in the soil facilitate carbon transportation through plant root systems. Drawing inspiration from this research, the building aims to create an interconnected research office environment, promoting efficiency and collaboration. Interconnectivity serves as a guiding principle in spatial organization.

To visually convey the concept of carbon absorption and conversion into oxygen, inspired by fungi, we utilize a Generative Adversarial Network to train images that merge fungi and laboratory interiors. This forms the basis for designing a suspended robotic machine, representing the building’s key mechanism. The machine symbolizes the integration of natureinspired processes and advanced technology.

Our design approach utilizes the concept of “chunk interaction” to foster seamless integration between different functional areas, bridging the gap between human and non-human spaces. The building is divided into two equal parts: solid and void spaces, each comprising 50% of the overall volume. The solid spaces house laboratories, research centers, and exhibition halls, while the void spaces serve as large meeting areas and main discussion zones. At the research center, scientists follow the lead of biomimetic machines to explore the transformation process. Fungal biomimetics replicate the mechanism by which fungi collect carbon in a zero-gravity laboratory, storing it as energy capsules to develop new clean energy sources and plant nutrients. In the bio lab, researchers investigate how fungi utilize ecological networks to connect plants and transport carbon as nutrients.

DOC. MYCOLOGY LAB

Year: 2022

Instructor: Zach Burns, Herwig Baumgartner

Partner: Xinyuan Yue, Hanna Park, Jenny Cook, Jila Mendoza, Jiangyao Shen, Meng-Jung Ho, Sijia Li, Wei-Chieh Wang

The design development phase of our project builds upon the foundation of our earlier design concept, incorporating critical considerations such as technology, materials, systems integration, and architectural analysis. This course provides a comprehensive exploration of these elements, delving into construction methods, building codes, structural and mechanical systems, environmental systems, building service systems, and the development and integration of building materials and components.

Through this course, our objective is to cultivate a holistic understanding of how architects effectively communicate complex building systems within the context of the built environment. Moreover, we aim to demonstrate our ability to document a comprehensive architectural project while emphasizing the importance of environmental stewardship.

To enhance our learning experience, we will examine a series of real-world case studies presented by our instructors and guest professionals who are at the forefront of exploring innovative project delivery methods. These case studies will be extensively analyzed, showcasing construction photographs, 3D renderings, technical drawings, and intricate details.

REVIT FOLLY-VERDURA TOWER

Year: 2023

Instructor: Andrea Cadioli

With Veras (AI-powered visualization add-in for Revit) as our guide, we embarked on a quest to seamlessly blend the urban and natural realms, envisioning a future where buildings harmoniously coexist with lush green spaces.

This course explores Autodesk Revit software, focusing on digital design, collaboration, and a creative approach. Students learn Building Information Modeling (BIM) principles through hands-on exercises in 3D modeling, data design, and procedural workflows. Utilizing Autodesk BIM360, the course simulates a dynamic office environment to foster teamwork.

Individual design choices impact the studio’s overall composition, driving an iterative and self-organizing system. Working in teams, students define segments of a collective design, including a tower with diverse ground conditions, elevations, and roof spaces. The course culminates in a digital exhibition showcasing their work through images and animations.

Through real-world challenges and advanced software tools, students develop practical skills in digital design and collaboration. The interactive and creative nature of the course encourages exploration of BIM’s potential, demonstrating proficiency in Autodesk Revit.

Partner: Hanna Park, Raksha Shetty, Jenny Cook, Luise Kaut, Salma Lopez

Our project consists of four residential floors located in the central section of the tower. The primary program is housing, and we have carefully integrated eight robust columns into the design to provide structural support. These columns not only serve a functional purpose but also contribute to the aesthetic appeal of the interiors. Moreover, our design incorporates several garden spaces within the tower, striking a balance between solid and void volumes, and creating a living environment that seamlessly blends nature with the built form.

LAYER UPON LAYER

Year: 2021

Instructor: Randy Jefferson, Dwayne Oyler

Partner: Sizhe Lu, Wanyu-Chen, Arjun Bharat

Tectonics, known as “the science and art of construction,” serves as the foundation for our study in this project. Our aim is to explore the integration of two distinct façade systems through thorough research, analysis, and transformation of precedents. We seek not only to incorporate an exterior façade system inspired by our research but also to introduce captivating enhancements to our previous design.

In the process of deforming our façade, we placed emphasis on augmenting the plain glass overlap with additional materials that provide both cohesiveness and an enhanced shading system. Our precedent study drew inspiration from Solar Carve, which features a fully overlapped double-glazed glass façade. This geometric composition comprises a repeated module consisting of a folded arrangement of five glass panels. Internally recessed mulleins provide structural support for the glass panels.

By integrating additional materials into the existing plain glass overlap, we aim to create a dynamic façade that not only adds visual interest but also improves the performance of the shading system. This approach not only aligns with the principles of tectonics but also enhances the overall aesthetic and functionality of the building.

Through our exploration of tectonics and the incorporation of innovative façade design, we aspire to create a building that demonstrates the fusion of architectural craftsmanship and artistic expression. Our goal is to achieve a harmonious balance between form and function while pushing the boundaries of traditional façade systems to create an engaging and visually compelling architectural statement.

Prefabricated Unit & Concrete Slab Conjunction

DGU Glazing

Aluminum Pant Pro le

Black Structural Silicon

Hot Dip Galvanized Steel Bracket

Rockwool Insulation

DGU Glazing

Aluminum Pant Pro le

Black Structural Silicon

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