Selected works 2020-2024
URBAN PLANNING ZHEJIANG UNIVERSITY
E-mail: xuhuan984@gmail.com Tel: +86 17300987078
Prologue
For me, space is not merely a container for function; it is a trigger for emotion . Every corner of a city holds the latent power to shape how people feel. Through design, I aspire to create spaces that evoke fairness, openness, and inclusivity—fostering positive emotions in those who inhabit them. Such spaces are not just about external form but about touching the heart, building meaningful connections between people and their environment, and among individuals themselves.
The power of design lies in transformation: turning anxious streets into tranquil pathways, cold plazas into warm gathering spots, and ensuring every user feels respected and embraced within the space. Positive emotions create an unspoken resonance, transforming cities from rigid structures into sanctuaries of humanity and hope.
[ Sonic Veil: Manhattan Acoustic Shield
[
Sonic Veil: Manhattan Acoustic Shield ]
A project in urban infrastructure in Manhattan, New York.
Zhejiang University, Urban Design Studio Practice of Architectural Design, 2023 Spring
Instructor: Din Xu Individual work
Manhattan faces critical urban challenges, including environmental injustice, noise pollution, and limited public spaces. Minority communities near major bridges endure unequal access to resources and diminished quality of life. This project proposes transforming infrastructure into productive, inclusive spaces to address these issues.
Step 1. Reducing Noise Pollution Through Acoustic Design
Noise pollution is a pervasive issue in Manhattan, especially near busy thoroughfares and subway lines. Strategies include sound-absorbing materials and innovative techniques to minimize vibrations, improving the urban soundscape and creating healthier environments.
Step 2. Utilizing Vertical Farms as Productive Infrastructure
With limited space in Manhattan, vertical farms turn underutilized structures into productive infrastructure. These farms promote sustainability and local food production, transforming previously unproductive spaces into contributors to the urban ecosystem.
Step 3. Enhancing Openness and Vitality Through Public Spaces
The ground level of the infrastructure hosts multifunctional public spaces, fostering social interaction and community gatherings. Prioritizing accessibility, these areas enhance cohesion and vitality in the urban fabric.
Several ways to deal with noise problem
The Design of Sonic Veil
Arial perspective of the structure
The government collaborated with several companies to build this structure around the Manhattan Bridge. It includes vertical urban farms and public activity spaces, and effectively blocks noise from the Manhattan Bridge. The government, related companies, nearby residents, and New York City citizens all benefit from this project.
Government
By partnering with companies, the government can attract private investment, revitalizing the local economy. The project may create jobs increase tax revenue and boost local business and real estate, contributing to overall city growth.
Citizens
Residents who benefit through new job opportunities, improved public spaces for recreation, more fresh organic food and better living conditions due to noise reduction.
Companies
Companies benefit by accessing new markets, enhancing their brand reputation through sustainability initiatives, increasing revenue from commercial spaces, and receiving government support for innovative projects.
Axonometric drawing
Vertical Farm Rendering
The design features sound barriers with nano-ceramic panels to reduce traffic noise and supports vertical zoning, with public spaces below and urban farming above.
[
Resource Link ]
A project in urban design in Hainan Province, China.
Zhejiang University, Urban Planning Studio City Master Plan and Design, 2023 Spring Instructor: Wang Jiwu Individual work
In the future, this small town in the Lingshui Autonomous District will become part of the Hainan Free Trade Zone. The area boasts abundant natural resources, including crystal-clear seas and protected ecological mountains. To support its development, I propose the following strategies:
Phase 1. Develop an Efficient Transportation System
Build a transportation network to reduce barriers between resources. Introduce urban light rail and public transpor t to connect natural landscapes with urban areas. Establish pedestrianfriendly routes through key scenic spots to encourage green, low-carbon travel for residents and visitors.
Phase 2. Establish Public Spaces Along Major Urban Axes
Plan a series of public spaces along the city’s main axes. These spaces will serve as venues for community activities and showcase the region’s culture and natural beauty, fostering interaction between people and the environment.
Phase 3. Enhance Connectivity Through Strategic Nodes
Place key facilities, such as ecological parks, coastal viewing platforms, and community centers, at critical points linking the city with natural resources. These nodes will create an integrated spatial structure, improve connectivity, and support balanced regional development.
On the sea, you'll find numerous floating structures known as Danjia fish rafts. The Danjia people have lived on the water for generations, residing in floating houses and relying on boats for transportation. Today, their culture has gained widespread recognition, attracting many visitors during holidays to experience their unique ethnic traditions and waterborne way of life.
This is a national-level nature reserve renowned for its efforts to protect the monkeys on the island. During holidays, it attracts numerous visitors who come to explore and enjoy its natural beauty.
Influx of High-Level Talent:
The free trade zone policies attract highly skilled professionals, driving industrial development while increasing demands for quality education, healthcare, transportation, and cultural facilities Local governments need to improve infrastructure to support their work and living needs.
Development of a Tourism Demonstration Zone:
A high-quality tourism demonstration zone is crucial to attract global visitors. However, poor connectivity and operational inefficiencies due to surrounding resource barriers limit its potential. Optimizing land use and enhancing infrastructure connectivity are essential to address these issues. This is the transformed landscape of Dacun Village in Lian Town, Lingshui Li Autonomous County, Hainan, following its overall relocation. Despite a high population density the rigid layout of the buildings and the overly centralized residential functions have led to a noticeable shortage of essential, high-quality living infrastructure.
Lingshui, with its superior natural conditions, is a key national base for aquatic breeding. The aquaculture breeding base covers an area of approximately 829 acres, integrating research, breeding, farming, and processing. These ponds serve as the breeding grounds.
The nodes are well-connected through public spaces, with buildings organized around them. This process transforms the site into a dynamic and cohesive urban landscape, prioritizing connectivity, functionality, and sustainability while addressing the needs of its residents and visitors.
Classification of Building Types
The project organizes a series of axial open spaces and transportation corridors, weaving them into a matrix system to shape the urban form.
View from the light rail
View of
[ Harmonious Heaven ]
A project in residential complex in Lyon, French.
Zhejiang University, Architecture Design Studio Architecture Design (B) , 2022 Spring Instructor: Gao Jun Individual work
This project exemplifies the power of collaboration between schools, government, and private enterprises in addressing the critical shortage of student housing in Lyon. By pooling resources and expertise, the partnership delivers a solution that goes beyond just providing shelter, aiming to foster inclusivity, social equity, and community engagement.
The design features a layered spatial hierarchy: the ground floor serves as a vibrant public space, seamlessly connecting the building to the city and encouraging urban interaction. The middle levels offer co-working and transitional spaces, providing students with opportunities to prepare for their professional careers. At the top, private single-occupancy apartments ensure students have a quiet and comfortable living environment.
This innovative approach not only meets immediate housing needs but also creates a platform for diverse cultural exchange and integration. It reflects a shared commitment to building a sustainable and equitable urban future for students of all backgrounds.
The cost of student housing in France is high compared to other regions, with private accommodations posing a particularly heavy financial burden. Additionally, rising inflation and living costs in France are further exacerbating the housing pressures faced by students.
The project seamlessly integrates into the urban fabric by respecting the surrounding architectural scale and maintaining a coherent street alignment. The compact form of the building harmonizes with the dense block structure of the neighborhood, while its facade design introduces a contemporary aesthetic that complements the historical context. Additionally, the open ground floor fosters interaction with the streetscape, enhancing the connection between the building and its urban environment.
This project tackles the student housing challenge in Lyon by integrating functional, semi-private, and public spaces. The design enhances urban vitality, fosters interaction, and provides a sustainable living environment, balancing openness and privacy to meet both current needs and future demands
The first floor plan demonstrates a clear spatial organization, balancing functionality and openness. The design integrates multi-functional spaces, providing areas for interaction and circulation. The use of open areas ensures flexibility while maintaining accessibility from the surrounding urban context. Landscaping elements, including strategically placed trees, enhance the environment and create a connection between the building and its external surroundings. The layout promotes a seamless transition between indoor and outdoor spaces, emphasizing connectivity and usability.
Terrace level floor plan
First floor plan
Analysis of the Residential complex
University of Lyon
University of Lumiere Lyon2
Inseec Bachelor Lyon University Jean Moulin Lyon
School Bellecour Confluence-Orangerie
Lyon Catholic University
The facade design reflects the building's multifunctional spaces, with each level catering to different activities.
Elevation Drawing
Section Drawing
[ Pleated Phantasm ]
Multi-dimensional Fold Theory Urban Design for the Western Block of Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center
Zhejiang University, Urban Design Studio Urban Design, 2024 Spring
Instructor: Cao Kang
Collaborator: Li Jingwei
My work: Research, Strategy and Concept, Master plan and some Architectural Design, all drawings in this work sample
Won the Popularity Award and Nomination Award in the competition.
Amid the rapid advancement of VR, AR, and MR technologies, this project proposes the innovative concept of “Pleated Phantasm” on a site along the Qiantang River. Strategically located as a gateway to Binjiang New City and near the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center, the design redefines urban living and industrial development in a fast-changing era.
Design Principles and Objectives
Grounded in Deleuze’s Fold Theory, which perceives the world as an interconnected network of evolving folds, the design draws inspiration from the cultural essence of Jiangnan and the Qiantang River. With a soft and graceful design language, it focuses on two key objectives:
Folded Space: Creating architectural and landscape folds to introduce spatial dynamism.
Functional Integration: Clustering innovative enterprises at different stages and blending multiple functions to foster urban vitality and adaptability.
Implementation and Vision
In Hangzhou’s Binjiang District core development area, the project harmonizes virtual and physical elements to promote industrial concentration and development. By establishing an international high-tech industrial zone, the design combines cultural preservation, human-centered spaces, and talent-friendly living environments. It envisions a future homeland where “space flows and time extends,” blending technological innovation with cultural care.
The site benefits from excellent accessibility, a strong high-tech industrial base, vibrant riverside spaces, diverse amenities, and proximity to the Hangzhou Olympic Sports Center. Key challenges include balancing urban density with open spaces and addressing infrastructure demands for a diverse and growing community.
Optimistic Bold Spirit
Hangzhou's cultural history highlights resilience and creativity, exemplified by Su Shi and Wen Tianxiang's enduring works.
reclaimed from the sea, Qiantang has transformed into a fertile and thriving region.
fostered scientific innovation, with figures like
Sheng and Shen Kuo shaping Chinese science. Poetic and Aesthetic Pursuit Spirit of Land Reclamation Spirit of Innovation
Yue State Era Kuaiji Era Lin’an Era
Podium buildings combine diverse functions within unified spaces, with open courtyards enabling interaction and exchange.
Vertical and horizontal scales intersect—formal structures serve financial/ office needs, while podiums adopt a humancentered design for site adaptability.
galsses information
MR devices create immersive virtual cities parallel to reality, enriching urban experiences.
In Central Park’s sunken district, MR transforms ads, navigation, and daily life, seamlessly blending virtual and real.
MR expands urban space into four dimensions, unlocking endless possibilities for future cities.
vision virtual spacetime
Fold Space
The Puzzle Space creates unique urban streetscape and a number of pocket spaces which may make people stay.
Module Combination
With a random combination of office and research cubes, an efficient working space is created, maximizing spatial utilization and functionality.
Cracks within Folds
Designed as a bridge between humanity and nature, this park blurs boundaries, offers quality services, and promotes harmonious coexistence.
Section Diagram
Central Park
[ Redefining power ]
A project in urban public space in Tripoli, Libya.
Zhejiang University, Architecture Design Studio Architecture Design (A) , 2021 Fall Instructor: Mao Lianpin Individual work
Tripoli, a city shaped by successive regimes, bears the deep imprint of power on its land. This power has contributed to its cultural and architectural diversity while leaving scars of historical trauma and spatial division. My design seeks to redefine these spaces of power through the interaction between centralized and dispersed power.
Site A. Centralized Power: The Water Tower
The water tower, a remnant of the Italian colonial period, stands as the city’s tallest structure and a vital source of water. I reimagined it as an Islamic-inspired minaret, reinforcing its role as a symbol of centralized power. At the same time, underground spaces for worship and public activities integrate community life into the site, fostering openness and shared authority.
Site B. Dispersed Power: The Market Adjacent to the Mosque
The old city’s market square and mosque, in contrast, showcase the coexistence of centralized and dispersed power. By optimizing the square's functionality and introducing a circular structure, the boundary between religious practices and daily life becomes blurred. The mosque’s symbolic presence shifts to a more implicit role, while market and community activities take center stage, infusing the space with vitality. Through this dynamic balance, my design transforms these spaces of power into inclusive, interactive public places that bridge history and modernity.
The Definition of Power Power in Tripoli, Libya
Types of Power
Michel Foucault
“Power is not an institution, and not a structure; neither is it a certain strength we are endowed with; it is the name that one attributes to a complex strategical situation in a particular society.”
Power must be analyzed as something which circulates, or rather as something which only functions in the form of a chain. It is never localized here or there, never in anybody’s hands, never appropriated as a commodity or piece of wealth. Power is employed and exercised through a net-like organization.
“Power needs a space of appearance to come into being, and this space is the public realm.”
Hannah Arendt believed that power is generated through people's collective actions and collaboration, and comes from people's dialogue and consensus in the public sphere. Power is not an extension of violence, but the ability to build on cooperation and shared goals. She emphasized that power requires an open public space to manifest and maintain, and once the public sphere disappears, power will decline and be replaced by violence or coercion.
Centralized power encompasses systems such as theocracy and monarchy , characterized by the concentration of authority in the hands of a select few. The spatial design in these systems typically emphasizes symbolism hierarchy, and control
Dispersed power arises from grassroots communities and collective actions, characterized by the decentralization of authority and shared decision-making. The spatial design in these systems often prioritizes flexibility, inclusivity, and adaptability
Centralized power shapes space via mosques, monuments, and government buildings, integrating spontaneous activities, while decentralized power blurs authority through daily interactions and reshapes it during rallies or protests.
Hannah Arendt
Centralized power
Dispersed power
Centralized power in space is reflected through the centripetality, symmetry, monumentality, and dominance of architectural forms, emphasizing control and authority in the built
The existing water tower, a remnant of the Italian colonial period, remains a vital city structure.
As one of the city's tallest landmarks, it dominates the skyline, making it an ideal focal point for reinforcing centralized power. By integrating Islamic-inspired elements, the tower will transform into a cultural and religious symbol, serving as a minaret for prayer. To address the region’s hot climate, underground spaces for worship and community activities will be created, offering a cool refuge for gatherings. This design emphasizes authority and unity while reflecting on the impact of political transitions, giving the structure deeper historical and cultural meaning.
This open-air market square, surrounded by a renowned mosque, reflects how religious authority has gradually merged into everyday life, with market activities and community interactions creating a more inclusive and flexible space.After years of conflict, people long for open, safe public spaces, and the government aims to revitalize the area through tourism.
My design features a circular structure that blurs the boundaries between religious and public activities, reinforces the dispearsed power enabling greater possibilities for daily and nighttime use Rooftop spaces enhance functional diversity and foster shared engagement, transforming the square into a vibrant community hub.
Aerial rendering
Aerial rendering
Cross Section
Cross Section
Centralized power Dispersed power
Section.B
Plan.B
The View from the Plaza Plaza and Circular Structure
Market under the Structure
Space under the Plaza
Standing at the entrance of the square, you can feel the majesty of the minaret.
At the center is a multifunctional square, designed for open gatherings, cultural events, and community activities.
The structure's shading allows the market to remain bustling even during the hot daytime.
The unique underground lighting design creates a sacred atmosphere, making it ideal for prayer.
Other work I
[ Characteristics and Mechanisms
of Urban Heat Island Intensity
In Typical Cities of the Yangtze River Delta Based on LCZ Fine-Grained Analysis
Zhejiang University, Urban Planning Theory and Technology Studio Student Research Training Program, 2023.3 - 2024.3
Instructor: Wang Weiwu
Collaborator: Mao Luyin, Wu Yue
My work: Data acquisition, partial chart creation, LCZ classification, TDI intensity calculation, and the production of two localized climate zone maps.
Using four typical cities in the Yangtze River Delta as examples, this study utilized the Google Earth Engine (GEE) platform, Landsat 8, and other multi-source data to construct an LCZ classification index system based on building morphology, land cover, surface materials, and human activities. Combining human perception experiments and SAGA GIS supervised machine learning, detailed LCZ maps were generated.
The study further analyzed diurnal and seasonal urban heat island intensity in Hangzhou, Nanjing, Hefei, and Shanghai using the TDI index and identified key factors influencing the relationship between LCZ and heat island intensity through geographic detection.
]
Methodology Flowchart
Urbanization in the Yangtze River Delta has intensified the urban heat island (UHI) effect, leading to higher t emperatures in urban areas and associated environmental challenges like reduced thermal comf ort and health risks. Traditional urban-rural analyses are insufficient to capture the complexity of urban thermal environments.
The Local Climate Zone (LCZ) framework offers a more de tailed approach, categorizing urban and natural surfaces based on morphology and thermal properties. Focusing on four key cities—Hangzhou, Nanjing, Hefei, and Shanghai—this study leverages LCZ analysis to understand UHI intensity and its drivers, providing insights for sustainable urban planning.
"The factor interaction analysis highlights the pivotal role of vegetation coverage and water surface indices in mitigating urban heat island effects, emphasizing the importance of integrating natural elements like trees and water bodies into urban cores to manage heat intensities and enhance sustainability."
Local Climate Zone Maps of Urban Core Areas in Hangzhou, Nanjing, Hefei, and Shanghai
Location Map of Yangtze River Delta Capital Cities
LCZ
[ Traversing Through Mist and Stream ]
A project in landscape design in Zhejiang University, China.
Zhejiang University, Landscape Design Studio Landscape Plan and Design, 2023 Fall
Instructor: Li Yonghua
Collaborator: Li Jingwei
My work: Research, Site Analysis, Strategy and Concept, Landscape Design, all drawings in this work sample
Won the third prize in the competition.
Based on the insights into the need for mental relaxation among surrounding students and teachers, a series of thoughtfully designed spaces, such as meditation areas and bird-watching spots, were created to address these needs. These spaces not only offer a peaceful retreat for stress relief and introspection but also integrate seamlessly with the environment to preserve and protect the natural ecology. By blending elements of nature with intentional design, they provide opportunities for immersive and enriching spiritual experiences, fostering a deeper connection between individuals and their surroundings while promoting mental well-being and ecological awareness.
Camphor Tree Goldenrain Tree
Bald Cypress
Redwood Soapberry Rowan Reed Zelkova Tree