I think the works I have created so far are different parts of re awaken i ng, Every city or building is like
REAWEAKENING ]
REAWEAKENING ]
XU SIYUAN'S PORTFOLIO FOR THE APPLICATION TO MARCH URBAN DESIGN, UCL
APPLICATION NUMBER: 25080515 a real and magical world. I hope that architecture and cities can gain new definitions a t some poi n t in the past, p resent, and future.
Application number: 25080515 Programme: MArch Urban Design
Wuhan University of Technology (WUT), China
Master of Design | GPA: 89.91/100 Ranking: 1/14 ---- will be awarded in 06/2025
Bachelor of Design | GPA: 89.09/100 Ranking: 8/49 ---- 06/2022
Studio Link-Arc -Intern
Participated in the design project of the Shenzhen Literature and Art Center, Took part in the design project of Shenzhen Qianhai Guiwan Nine-Year System School,concerning building façade discussion, 3D modelling making, material categorisation and determination, etc.
UCL—Intelligent Urbanism: Urban Markets in the City----12/2023-01/2024
Investigated the technical advantages and constraints of vertical farming and how these principles could be applied to the urban form of parametric city models
Adopted evolutionary algorithms to develop urban forms associated with specific conditions defined by the artificial environment Utilised machine learning to drive new paradigms in urban architecture
2024 Computational Design Symposium (hosted by Tongji University)
Focused on the forum project: Multi-Robot Collaborative Space Frame Autonomous Construction Used machine learning, programmed robotic arms to learn the logic and master the assembly trajectories, ultimately enabling them to autonomously construct an interdependent structure in a supervised-free environment
& Grasshopper
Third Prize (National Level), Interior Design Contest for College Students
Second-class Scholarship, WUT
Third Prize of NCDA National College Digital Art & Design Awards
First Prize of Art Star Design Competition for College Students
Second Prize of China Creative Packaging Design Award
Third Prize of Hong Kong Digital Art Design Competition
Outstanding Graduate, WUT
Outstanding Graduation Design and Outstanding Graduation Thesis, WUT
Second Prize of China College Student Computer Design Competition, South Central Region
Tel: +86 15623828598
E-Mail: xu_siyuan2024@163.com
Reaweakening is the process of renewal, transformation, and emergence into a new form, whether in a literal or metaphorical sense. It often involves a profound change or rediscovery, marked by leaving behind the past and embracing a fresh start or a new identity. In narratives, rebirth represents the journey from loss or hardship toward growth, symbolizing resilience, healing, and newfound purpose. It’s seen in nature as well, like the cyclical blooming of flowers after winter, or in culture through the resurgence of forgotten traditions. Reaweakening embodies hope and the potential for reimagining one’s self, world, or community.
In my four projects, 'Dark Forest' represents materiality, 'Flow' embodies spiritual reaweakening the third project talks about the reaweakening of faith, and the second project showcases the reaweakening of technology
Aspects of Reawakening
Start at the end of time —— Preface
Undersea Shelters' Morphological Translation Of Three-Body Movie Based On Mereological Algorithm
Intelligent Urban Farming and Urban Markets
Post-War Gaza Needs To Rebuild A City Of Faith 03.CITY
A Story Of Farewells, Reunions, Solitude And Continuation
05.AI Multi Robot Collaboration
Physical Key Manufacturing On The Shenzhen Seaside
Multi -Robot Collaboration Space Mesh Shell Is Self -Built 07.TAOYUAN
Wood And Stone At The Source Of Rivers
Undersea Shelters' Morphological Translation Of Three-Body Movie Based On Mereological Algorithm
Summer ， 2023
Instructor ： Meizi Li
Student: Siyuan Xu TEAM WORK
SIYUAN XU, YUTING XUE
ROLE IN TEAM:Preliminary research: 70%, conceptual design 70%, drawing expression: 80%
Based on the storyline of Liu Cixin’s “The Three-Body Problem”, we discovered that among the more civilized Trisolarans, there are some peace-loving ethnic groups who are not treated equally by their own kind. With the story background that the ground will be invaded and destroyed by the Trisolarans in the future
We envisioned a new vision of humans and the pacifist Trisolarans developing a new home on the seabed.
The basic setting of the novel involves the three-body problem in classical mechanics. It describes the three-body people living in the three-body world who are constantly evolving, and the new generation of three-body people has already surpassed the scientific level of the earth civilization by several times.
The three-body problem is a basic mechanical model in celestial mechanics. It refers to the law of movement of three celestial bodies whose masses, initial positions and initial velocities are arbitrary, which can be regarded as particle points, under the action of mutual gravitation.
The three-body problem can be expressed mathematically by Newton's equations of motion for the vector position of three interacting objects of mass
THEORETICAL BACKGROUND ] [ STORYLINE SUMMARY KEY POINTS ]
-High IntelligenceEvery
-No BonesMore than 90% of Trisolaran's body is
-Carbon-based lifefoldable after dehydration, easy to store, flammable after dehydration.
-Think transparently -
ENCLAVE II - AQUACELESTIA LOCATION: PACIFIC TRENCH
Maris Nexus, nestled within the Pacific Northwest Basin, is the epitome of human resilience and unity. This shelter's modular design harmonizes with the fluidity of the ocean. The structures intertwine to create a sense of community, resembling coral formations. The shelter seamlessly blends the oceanic landscape with discrete architectural theory, offering adaptable living spaces and advanced research facilities. Maris Nexus celebrates the mysteries of the cosmos and fosters collaboration among residents, nurturing an environment of exploration and shared knowledge.
AquaCelestia is a beacon of human determination in the depths of the Pacific Trench. This shelter combines discreet architectural principles with advanced oceanic technology. Resembling a celestial outpost, AquaCelestia's luminous architecture integrates bioluminescence to illuminate the abyssal darkness. Its modular platforms provide a dynamic habitat for residents and researchers, while the hidden defense systems embody the concept of the "Celestial Vanguard." AquaCelestia stands as an homage to the cosmic mysteries, serving as a connection between humanity, the ocean, and the stars.
ATLANTIC REFUGE - ATLANTIA ARCANA LOCATION: MID-ATLANTIC RIDGE
Atlantia Arcana rests upon the ancient Mid-Atlantic Ridge, where the Atlantic Ocean meets hidden depths. This shelter is a tribute to the secrets that both the ocean and the universe hold. Its discrete design elements, resembling a network of interconnected vaults, provide self-contained habitats and research chambers. Atlantia Arcana's focus is on scientific exploration, unraveling the mysteries of oceanic life and cosmic connections. It mirrors the enigmatic nature of the "Three-Body Problem" narrative, encouraging residents to venture into the unknown and embrace their role in the greater cosmic order.
INDIAN SANCTUARY - SAGARIKA HAVEN LOCATION: INDIAN OCEAN ABYSSAL PLAIN
Sagarika Haven is an oasis of tranquility amidst the Indian Ocean Abyssal Plain. Its structures mimic the delicate dance of underwater organisms, providing a seamless blend of discrete architectural theory and oceanic aesthetics. Sagarika Haven embodies the principles of harmony and sustainability, boasting self-sustaining systems inspired by the ocean's ability to nurture life. This refuge not only embraces the essence of the "Three-Body Problem" novel but also fosters cultural exchange, serving as a sanctuary where residents find solace in the interconnectedness of humanity, the oceans, and the cosmos.
In all connection rules, the energy support system is connected to all modules, while the self defense system and community system are relatively independent except for the experimental module and the co built community module, all of which are linked through the energy support system. The community system supports self connection
[ DEEP SEA FORTRESS （float out）]
[Deep Sea Fortress is under construction]
This shelter is built using the principles of discrete architecture, emphasizing adaptability, sustainability, and modularity. Each shelter is constructed using modular, self-sufficient units that can be expanded or reconfigured according to residents' constantly changing needs.
These shelters are designed to withstand extreme ocean conditions while utilizing cutting-edge ocean energy sources such as hydrothermal and tidal energy, making them self-sufficient. Integrating advanced water filtration systems, hydroponics, and aquaculture can ensure long-term food security and resource sustainability.
Intelligent Urban Farming and Urban Markets
Winter ， 2023
Instructor ： Enriqueta Llabres-Valls
Student: Siyuan Xu
UCL Relational Urbanism-WORKSHOP INDIVIDUAL WORK
Food security is a problem facing cities, exacerbated by population growth and climate change . Historically, urbanization has been driven by the development of agriculture. As a result, settlements have been closely integrated with their surroundings, developing unique morphologies and metabolic infrastructures adapted to local conditions. Currently, extensive agriculture in distant regions provides food for cities around the world. This workshop aims to bridge the gap between two scales: 1. related to the urban scale, as an interconnected production unit and its relationship to urban ecology; 2. related to the technological scale described by Dickson Despommier.
This project bridges the gap between vertical farming (building scale) and urban scale, investigating how the technical advantages and constraints of vertical farming can be applied to parametric urban models of urban morphology, using evolutionary algorithms to expand urban morphology associated with artificial environments, and using machine learning to promote new models in urban architecture.
Assist in interpreting site relationships through multi-level information processing about the site
Given the unique environmental and infrastructure challenges posed by such a site, particularly in terms of integrating agricultural systems with surrounding research and transportation facilities, the Wool algorithm simulates nature’s aggregation and flow behaviors to help plan the most efficient movement and logistics paths.
Additionally, by mimicking nature’s collective decision-making processes , it helps subdivide available land into functional and adaptable plots that maximize resource utilization while ensuring easy access for researchers and market operators. This optimization ensures seamless operations, efficient space utilization, and sustainability, which is critical to the site’s multifaceted goals.
Generate phased records based on optimized path of wool algorithm
(include the conversion value of pedestrian flow, vehicle flow, access convenience, and main functional purpose)
Generate phased records based on optimized path of wool algorithm
Optimized path generation seed based on wool algorithm
10 solutions selected from 3000 solutions
Based on the maximum utilization of site resources and the maximum spatial efficiency of the design form, as well as the optimization results of the paths within the site in the early stage, 3000 samples were obtained under unsupervised machine learning. The above is the result generated under the proportion of the influence of ten different parameters selected.
Vertical Farming Research Center Brochure
Ecological Base E
Vertical function distribution
Solar Panel Array
Rainwater Collection System
Through my exploration of algorithms, I have witnessed the ability of algorithms to help architects analyze the complexity of city and I believe this could achieve great future potential for architectural and urban design and makes me eager to explore digital technologies in the future.
+Functional allocation based on plot area
The site is located in an industrial park in Waigaoqiao District, Shanghai. It is surrounded by factories, freight docks, and residential buildings, and the traffic flow is very complex. In such a complex environment, hope to use the power of computer algorithms to assist me in analysis, help me better understand the complexity of the site, and allow my design to better integrate into the existing urban system.
Logistics & Distribution Crop Maintenance
Observation Deck
Exhibition Hall
Water recycling unit
Nutrient recovery room
Composting station
Aeroponic room
Experimental crop room
Climate control center
Hydroponic area
Lighting system
Irrigation control room
Plant health laboratory
Loading & unloading
Storage room
Packaging & processing
The path to a modern vertical farming system
For the design of vertical layout , as shown in the figure above: use a multi-layer structure to maximize space efficiency. At the same time, effectively use hydroponics or aeroponics choose water-saving planting methods according to crop and site conditions. Combined with automated planting, harvesting and nutrient delivery systems to improve efficiency. Of course, the maximum utilization of solar and wind energy is also an indispensable part of the system. Energy is not only used in cultivation, but also in corresponding supervision and monitoring of fully automatic equipment.
The basic unit of vertical farming system
Hydroponic Layer:
Plants grow in water channels that deliver nutrient-rich water directly to the plant’s roots. The water circulates continuously, providing nutrients to the plants and conserving water using a closed-loop system.
Aeroponic Layer:
Plants are suspended in the air and their roots are periodically sprayed with a nutrient solution. This spraying uses less water and increases oxygen supply to the roots, which promotes faster growth.
Water Circulation:
Any unused water drains to a recovery unit where it is filtered and reused in the hydroponic and aeroponic layers, keeping the system sustainable.
Air Flow:
Fans circulate air to provide oxygen to the roots, especially in the aeroponic layer, and help control temperature and humidity.
Automation and Monitoring: Sensors track nutrient levels, pH, and humidity, adjusting conditions to maintain an optimal environment.
After the internal space is reasonably allocated, the site also needs to be fully utilized. I set up a lot of greenery on the open space around the building, and there are also some plantations, such as persimmon trees, orange trees and other plantations, and there are special staff to take care of them. After the variety experiment of the plantation is successful, the seeds and genes will be transferred to the laboratory in the building. The
of leafy greens and herbs thrive in the nutrient-rich canals. Automatic pumps recycle the water, and it uses modular tanks and LED lights to grow basic vegetables like spinach and lettuce, providing a steady source of food for the affected communities.
The multi-layered aeroponic tower grows strawberries and leafy green vegetables, with their roots suspended in the air and sprayed with nutrient solution.
The stacked vertical agricultural production base stands like a cape on the coast of the East China Sea. The cargo port in the distance continuously exports and imports crops to be developed and samples that have been successfully researched. Freight trucks and helicopters travel back and forth between the city center and the base to ensure that fresh fruits and vegetables are delivered to the target location as quickly as possible.
Post-war Gaza needs to rebuild a city of faith
SUMMER ， 2024
Instructor ： Lifeng Lin
Student: Siyuan Xu TEAM WORK
SIYUAN XU , YUTING XUE , YUDI WU
ROLE IN TEAM:Preliminary research: 60%, conceptual design 70%, drawing expression: 80%
What can urbanism do when Gaza has been blasted into ruins by war?
The project addresses the complex challenge of establishing harmonious coexistence of faith communities in a highly competitive urban environment.
By connecting five different faith cities, each dedicated to a specific religious or cultural concept, the project seeks to promote peace, mutual understanding and cultural exchange. It addresses the problem of fragmented urban development in conflict-prone areas by introducing a cohesive, layered urban structure that integrates religious activities, temporary settlements and public life.
1- The
has been reduced to rubble after the ravages of war.
Therefore, reconstruction of the entire region is no longer possible.
O
Based on the study of urban typology, the design aims not only to rebuild the physical space of the community but also to preserve historical memory and promote the concept of peace through modern architecture and landscape planning. We hope that when the dust of war settles and people return to Gaza, this city will evoke deep memories of their past lives while deeply remembering the trauma of war and cherishing the value of peace.
This
guidebook
The City of Memory is a vibrant urban center dedicated to preserving, commemorating and passing on the lived experiences, labor and teachings of Gazans. More than a place of remembrance, the city is a living, vibrant community where people’s daily lives, traditions and spiritual practices are intertwined with the city’s layout and function. Here, memory is a living element that guides how people work, learn and connect across generations.
It is a monument to the rebirth of everyday life, where daily labor, teachings, and celebrations connect people to the past and empower the future. Through a layout that merges work, worship, and memory, the city embodies the spirit of Gaza and provides a cohesive place for its people to maintain and renew their collective identity.
The city is a symbol of pilgrimage, a place of preparation and reflection for those embarking on a sacred pilgrimage. The layout is designed to mimic the stages of a pilgrimage, guiding visitors on a spiritual journey within the city limits, with major landmarks representing important pilgrimage rituals.
It is a holy place, centered around the spiritual journey of Hajj, designed as a symbolic and ritual space to honor the significance of the pilgrimage. The city is both a place of learning and a rehearsal for Hajj, where people from all backgrounds can learn, train, and participate in rituals related to the core of the Islamic faith. By experiencing the foundational stages of Hajj, the city provides an environment where spiritual growth, community connection, and ritual preparation are intertwined. It is also a public place of intense spiritual concentration where people can fully engage with the teachings and practices of Hajj. By integrating reflective spaces, ritual stages, and educational opportunities, it provides a place for preparation, contemplation, and exchange, celebrating the significance of one of Islam’s most sacred journeys.
A Story Of Farewells, Reunions, Solitude And Continuation
SPRING ， 2023
Instructor ： Lifeng Lin
Student: Siyuan Xu INDIVIDUAL WORK
After watching the movie Elegy for the Swan , I was moved by the inner activities and emotional changes of human nature and artificial intelligence described in it. I hope to complete the project through the application of typology and the design of emotional space
The project is located in an open space on the shore of Pitt Lake in Canada, surrounded by surrounding mountains, forests, and lakes, and the distance from the city also has a proper sense of alienation. The source of the site selection is the filming location of the movie Swan Elegy. There are swans, starry sky, forests, snow-capped mountains, lakes, wetlands, rivers, and one of the few tidal lakes in the world.
Movie Shot Emotion Analysis Clipboard
Location: Shanghai, China Time: 8.24.2024
Movie Shot Emotion Analysis
Movie Shot Emotion Analysis Clipboard
Location: Shanghai, China Time: 8.24.2024
ClipboardLocation: Shanghai, ChinaTime: 8.24.2024
Every frame in the movie is a carrier of emotions. The fusion of space and emotions expressed in the movie shots is more intuitive. Through the preliminary study of the lens language, the four main emotions expressed in the movie can be extracted.
Every frame in the movie is a carrier of emotions. The fusion of space and emotions expressed in the movie shots is more intuitive. Through the preliminary study of the lens language, the four main emotions expressed in the movie can be extracted.
Every frame in the movie is a carrier oemotions. The fusion of space and emotions expressed in the movie shotsis more intuitive. Through the preliminary study of the lens language, thefour main emotions expressed in themovie can be extracted.
As one of the world’s few tidal lakes, Pitt Lake has a dynamic shoreline that transforms with the rhythm of the Pacific tides.Looking outward from the lake’s edge, the fjords of the Coastal Mountains rise steeply, and beyond them, snowy peaks form a dramatic, layered backdrop.
Extruding spatial boundaries from the film’s frame and the natural scenery of Pitt Lake
Continuation: ancestry of love, flow of life, continuous inheritance.
Farewell: separation from the real world, sentimentality and regret.
Solitude: isolation, contemplation, anti-self.
Reunion: new beginning, reconnection, happiness and hope.
Refining and transforming theoretical models into mirror references for spatial generation
当地石材：户外空间/半户外空间/部分空间的分割
当地石材，spf，混凝土
The design concept was born from the idea of translating the emotional arc of the film into spatial form - each emotion relating to a specific part of the site. The vastness of the landscape allowed one to emphasize both the separation and continuity of spaces, while the natural surroundings inspired a design rooted in materiality and sensory experience. part1.
Drawing on Lacan’s psychoanalytic theories, Freud’s exploration of the unconscious, and Pallasma’s sensory architecture, the design uses local materials such as wood, stone, and concrete to connect the space to its natural surroundings while evoking specific emotions.
SWAN SONG
The building design uses strategic lensing and framing to create a strong connection with its natural surroundings. By positioning openings to capture views of Pitt Lake, nearby forests, and distant mountains, the architecture directs attention to the landscape's key features. Each framed view is intended to evoke specific emotions from *Swan Song*—farewell, reunion, continuation, and loneliness—integrating the building seamlessly with its environment and enhancing the emotional experience of the space.
Analyze the landscape corresponding to the emotions and orientation of each part of the space
I believe I have successfully translated an emotional narrative into a spatial experience and integrated the architecture with its surroundings.
This project was motivated by a deep interest in exploring the intersection of architecture and emotion, specifically how space can evoke and reflect complex emotional experiences. Inspired by the film Swan Song, which explores themes of human nature, artificial intelligence, and emotional transformation, I chose this project to try to translate cinematic emotions into tangible architectural form. The film’s depiction of farewell, reunion, continuity, and loneliness inspired my desire to explore how these emotions can be embodied in spatial design, especially in a natural, isolated environment like Lake Pitt.
Previous research findings were translated into specific design strategies, such as creating a spatial sequence that reflects the emotional flow of the film. For example, the emotion of “farewell” is represented by a secluded space facing the mountains, while “reunion” is symbolized by an open, light-filled area facing the swan habitat.
Different theories converge into the background thought of architecture
This building, clad in black fir panels The simplicity of the black fir facade, treated to withstand the elements, mirrors the natural textures of the forest and hillsides, grounding the building as a natural part of its environment. The building’s form and material choice harmonize with the landscape, offering a serene, immersive experience while subtly enhancing the natural beauty of the Pitt Lake region.
The sections of 16 cutting lines are recorded, corresponding to four emotional spaces.
The analysis chart shows a day for the owner of the studio. It records the emotional arc, timeline and traffic flow of the day, which can intuitively show the time and trajectory of people in different spaces, as well as the emotional space atmosphere they correspond to.
Continuation: Flowing space design with audio-visual continuity
This space can be associated with the endless search for “authenticity”. Continuity is evoked through materials and textures that age gracefully over time, emphasizing the passage of time and the continuity of existence. The interplay of light and shadow may create a sense of permanence.
Farewell: Towards the Endless Forest
Enhance the sensory experience of a farewell by using materials that evoke a sense of touch, such as cold, hard surfaces that feel distant and solid, and use shadows and dim lighting to create a melancholy atmosphere. Soft firelight and heavy materials can emphasize the emotional weight of a parting.
计算性设计：人工智能赋能的建筑学转型 2024 中国建筑学会计算性设计学术论坛工作营成果展
Example: Creative Machine Learning Model(s) For Design
Multi-Robot Collaborative Autonomous Construction of Reciprocal Shells
Multi-Robot Collaborative Autonomous Construction of Reciprocal Shells
Three robots have certain tasks at different time periods. After machine learning, robot number 3 is responsible for supervision and monitoring, while the other two robots repeat the grasping and docking actions they have learned
August 22-24
to the client. Formal handover of the completed structure.
Design Progress & Onsite Construction Process
Tears of the Ocean is a captivating art installation located on the scenic seaside of Shenzhen, crafted from a steel structure that evokes the raw power and tranquility of the ocean. The installation draws inspiration from the emotional depth and fluidity of water, symbolizing the ocean’s ability to contain both beauty and melancholy.
August. 202 Handover
Final inspection and provision of documentation to the client. Formal handover of the completed structure.
This project is inspired by the towering trees and stones in Taoyuan, based on the theory of discretization and the splicing method of Lego toys, exploring how to combine modular components and wood structures in physical construction. The modular assembly model can also achieve an unlimited expansion model, implying the continuity of Taozhou from generation to generation.
