Portfolio.
YANLIN CHEN 20192025
Architecture
InspiredbySpaces: DesigningwiththeSoulofArchitecture
InspirationfromNature: DesigningwiththeEssenceoftheEarth
Hi!IamYANLIN(Renee)
I am an architectural designer passionate about sustainability and creating thoughtful and environmentally responsible spaces. My background spans architecture, interior design, and graphic design, providing me with a multidisciplinary approach to problem-solving. I have worked on architectural projects across various cities in China, explored interior design in Toronto, and ventured into creative media, all of which have shaped my perspective on design and its impact.
I specialize in sustainable design strategies, architectural planning, and conceptual development, using tools such as Revit, Rhino, Enscape, Adobe Suite and AutoCAD to bring ideas to life. I hold a Bachelor of Arts, double majoring in Architectural Design and History, and have completed postgraduate studies in Design Management and Creative Industry. I am constantly seeking ways to merge creativity with sustainability.
For me, good design goes beyond aesthetics it’s about creating a positive impact on society and the planet I am passionate about how spaces can connect people, enhance experiences, and contribute to a more sustainable future.
Toronto. CA
https://www.linkedin.com/in/-yanlinchen/
Contact Info:
YANLIN CHEN | Toronto fly199737@gmail com
647-210-9201
Skill Set:
Technical:
Revit Rhino Sketchup Pro
Enscape · Vray
AutoCAD
PKPM
Photoshop Illustrator InDesign
Microsoft Office
Model Making · Laser Cut
Sketching
Designing:
Conceptual Innovation
Research & Context analysis
Architectural Drawing
Landscape Design
Strategic urban planning
Personal Interest:
Key Achievements:
Design Excellence Awards (BIAD)
Client Satisfaction Improvement
Social Media Content Creator (Sharing posts and reviews on architecture, culture, art, earning over 100k likes )
Passion:
Architectural Traveler (Architecture tour of North America, China, Europe, and Japan over the past 10 years Few Projects Visited: Chichu, Teshima, Aomori Museum of Art, Miho Museum, Benesse House, Musée d'Orsay, Louvre, Dalí House Museum, Casa Batlló, Barcelona Pavilion, Joan Miró Foundation, Bourse de Commerce, Frank Lloyd Wright studio, M+ Museum, Art institute of Chicago etc )
Music (20+ years piano experience)
Architecture Photography
Sports (Hiking, Swimming, Ski, Yoga)
Movie & Books
Certificate:
Mass Timber Engineering
Canadian Consulting Engineer
Certificate of Psychology
Yale University
Piano Amateur Gr 10 Certification
Central Conservatory of Music
Languages:
Mandarin - Native
English - Fluent
Professional Experience:
Architectural Designer | 2019-2023
BIAD- Beijing Institute of Architectural Design | Beijing, China
At BIAD, I contributed to over 20 architectural projects across residential, commercial, office, laboratory, education, urban planning, and renovation sectors My role involved conceptual design, planning, and technical coordination, with a strong focus on integrating sustainability strategies and spatial innovation throughout all phases, from pre-design to construction administration I collaborated with cross-disciplinary teams to refine designs, ensuring feasibility and a balance between aesthetics and functionality
Interior Designer | 2019
Artwell | Toronto, Canada
At Artwell, I completed five commercial interior design projects in Toronto, consistently delivering them on schedule My role involved coordinating with various stakeholders for each project to ensure adherence to design specifications and regulatory standards. I gained experience throughout the entire process, from the concept design stage to project completion
Architectural Designer | 2020 (As request by BIAD - colleboration project)
Crossboundaries | Beijing, China
At Crossboundaries, I contributed to projects in high school, landscape, and installation design, focusing on sustainable solutions. My role involved participation from the concept design stage through to the final presentation
Architectural Designer | (Summer work term)
CADG - China Architecture Design & Research Group | 2016
BIAD- Beijing Institute of Architectural Design | 2017 & 2018
At CADG and BIAD, I contributed to differnt commercial project competition as part of a team of 10, and assisting with concept design and prepared final presentation documents Our team achieved a top-three placement in the competition.
Education:
Design Management - Postgraduate Certificate | 2025
George Brown College | Toronto, Canada
Creative Industries Management - Postgraduate Certificate | 2024 Sheridan College | Toronto, Canada
Double Major in Architectural Design & History
Bachelor's Degree of Arts | 2015-2019
University of Toronto| Toronto, Canada
Volunteer:
Movie Festival Volunteer| 2024
Tiff | Toronto, Canada
Art curator| 2023
China Literature and Art Foundation| Beijing, China
Graphic Designer| 2015-2017
University of Toronto UTFUN Org. | Toronto, Canada
Healthcare Event Organizer| 2017-now
HaiXin Healthcare community centre| Beijing, China
2
O N T E N T S T A B L E O F
1 CNPCHainan SustainableHeadquarters
January 2023
Bidding Proposal (First place in the competition, unbuilt project )
Concept Design (Work for BIAD)
Headquarters Architecture
Hainan, China
ProjectOverview
The CNPC Hainan Headquarters, located in the Jiangdong New Area of Haikou City, aligns with China’s Hainan Free Trade Port strategy and supports CNPC's regional business growth The design merges modern office spaces with advanced sustainability features, creating a landmark that embodies CNPC’s identity as a leading state-owned enterprise while emphasizing environmental responsibility
This project is more than just an office building it is a forward-thinking example of sustainable design, integrating energy efficiency, eco-friendly materials, and natural elements to showcase CNPC’s commitment to progress and sustainability
MyContributions
Proposed the Overall Conceptual Design
Site Planning & Floor Layout
Initial Models & Visualizations
Physical Model Supervision
Proposal Video & Final Presentation
Collaboration with Engineers
ProjectHightlights
Sustainability
Innovative Sites Integration(Combine two sites as one)
Efficient Layout
Green Technologies
Iconic Architecture
DesignStrategy
The design maximizes the site's potential with a high plot coverage layout, creating a spacious central courtyard that extends the urban green axis from the southern park to the northern coastline Adapting to Haikou’s climate, lush greenery enhances the space, forming a natural oxygen hub. Public areas, including lobbies and cafés, are seamlessly integrated into the courtyard, fostering a garden-like work environment. The roof gently rises from north to south, creating multi-level sea-view terraces that provide diverse spaces for relaxation and scenic enjoyment.
By analyzing the skyline of adjacent coastal buildings, we capitalize on the site’s advantages by treating the two plots as a unified entity rather than separate spaces The architectural form reinforces cohesion, turning constraints into strengths Our goal is to maximize the building’s viewing surfaces and observation platforms while ensuring a distinctive, iconic presence from the sea, setting it apart from the surrounding structures.
LayoutAnalysis
The north side opens to sea views, extending into multi-level green terraces that blend seamlessly with the architecture, creating an ecological space The vertical layout integrates service, office, and public functions, with the ground floor accessible to the public Two main volumes at the ground level are connected by a corridor, while a floating second-level platform links the spaces, forming a cohesive urban interface
North Aerial View
SustainableDesign
Given Haikou's abundant rainfall, the building is surrounded by a circular water basin that serves both as a landscape feature and a system for rainwater reuse The structure incorporates a renewable steel framework and a modular curtain wall system, significantly reducing construction time while embodying ecological sustainability Additionally, the smart building control system integrates lighting, shading, HVAC, and security, enabling real-time energy consumption monitoring to maintain an optimal balance between efficiency and performance
This section shows how the building uses natural ventilation and an elevated atrium to enhance sustainability
Green Building Analysis
1：200 Physical Model
1：800 Physical Model
2
MEIYUAN Eco-Tourism CulturalRevitalization
2022
Commissioned Project (Under construction)
Pre-design to Construction administration (Work for BIAD)
Cultural Heritage Revitalization (Urban Park）
Hebei, China
ProjectOverview
Our design for the MEI YUAN project in Chengde, Hebei, transforms an abandoned industrial site into a year-round ecotourism and cultural hub Initially constrained by small building footprints and vast outdoor spaces, the site has been reimagined to seamlessly integrate nature, culture, and commercial functionality
Inspired by the plum blossom a symbol of resilience the design blends Eastern and Western cultural elements. Key features include the Plum Blossom Museum, Wedding Chapel, Equestrian Center, workshops, commercial street, ecodining areas, and a castle These spaces provide a diverse mix of cultural and leisure experiences while maintaining a strong connection to the natural environment.
Sustainability is a core priority, with energy-efficient systems, renewable materials, and green design strategies minimizing environmental impact and ensuring year-round operation. The project strikes a balance between cultural preservation and modern development, creating a dynamic, eco-friendly destination for all ages
MyContributions
Design Development
Collaboration
Sustainability
Cross-Department Coordination
Documentation (3D moderling, 2D drawings,
Rendering, Presentation)
ProjectHightlights
Site Transformation
Plum Blossom Theme
Cultural & Functional Spaces
Sustainability
Cultural Fusion
DesignStrategy
Set against a mountainous backdrop with significant elevation changes, the project site is semi-developed with scattered existing buildings that disrupt spatial continuity. The design preserves these structures while introducing new functions, optimizing the road network, and integrating railway elements. Key challenges include managing elevation differences, reorganizing circulation, and ensuring architectural harmony with the surroundings The proposal addresses these by redefining site functions, stabilizing slopes, refining road layouts, and enhancing landscape integration to create a cohesive and functional environment.
Site Aerial View Aerial
The Chengde Plum Garden project spans 220,000 ㎡ and is divided into three thematic zones:
Literary & Arts
East-West Fusion
Folk Culture
It repurposes existing buildings, including a castle, chapel, horseriding facilities, and a train station, blending cultural heritage with modern revitalization.
Culture & Arts
Pulm Landscape
Tea House
Transportation (Train Station)
Train Tracks
Stable
TeaHouse
Phaseone-East-WestFusion (CommercialStreet+Castle)
Through studying the towns of Hallstatt and Annecy, we identified a design direction inspired by their harmony with nature, cultural integration, and historical charm This vision seeks to create a visually captivating and emotionally resonant space that balances tradition with modern functionality
Before
As an eco-themed destination, the project features a variety of photogenic spots, inviting visitors to capture every moment The castle, as the iconic landmark, stands out with its exquisite façade, making it a must-visit attraction for photography
The design concept for this section blends seasonal landscapes with art, offering visitors a unique experience year-round. The primary functions focus on weddings and seasonal sightseeing The design fosters an ecofriendly, romantic atmosphere, with distinct settings for each season. To enhance the winter experience, advanced technologies such as sound, light, and projections are seamlessly incorporated
This section serves as the town's cultural hub, rich in artistic ambiance In addition to functioning as a sketching base for artists, it hosts exhibitions of renowned artworks and offers painting experiences. The space also provides cultural activities such as flower arrangement, winemaking, and tea ceremonies, attracting visitors from the cultural community to engage and participate
3 NingDe CommercialComplexPlaza
2020
Bidding Proposal (First place in the competition, unbuilt project)
Concept Design (Work for BIAD)
Mixed-Use Architecture
Fujian, China
ProjectOverview
Located on Ningde’s eastern waterfront, this 158,000-square-meter development integrates a hotel, office towers, a shopping center, and an express inn, shaping a smart and eco-friendly CBD
Drawing inspiration from the Taiji philosophy, the design balances "Yin" and "Yang" with office towers along the waterfront maximizing sea views, while commercial spaces create a dynamic urban hub A central green plaza serves as a vibrant gathering space, enhancing community interaction
Sustainability is a key focus, with energy-efficient systems, green materials, and rooftop gardens improving the microclimate The supertall towers feature a stepped form, symbolizing growth, while the panoramic rooftop hall offers stunning sea views, reinforcing Ningde’s identity as a forward-thinking city.
MyContributions
Design & Layout
Architectural Modeling
Collaboration
Presentation & Documentation
Public Space Design
ProjectHightlights
Cultural Design
Prime Location
Sustainability
Iconic Architecture
Public Spaces
DesignStrategy
From our design perspective, the Ningde Commercial Complex Plaza seamlessly blends functionality, culture, and sustainability. Inspired by Taiji philosophy, we positioned office towers (Yin) and commercial spaces (Yang) around a central green plaza, creating a vibrant, 24/7 hub The design honors cultural heritage through modern forms, with the "rising steps" towers symbolizing growth Eco-friendly features, such as sponge city technologies and natural ventilation, ensure the project’s resilience More than just a landmark, this project embodies Ningde’s future by balancing tradition, innovation, and community
Site
The design concept for the supertall towers is inspired by the theme of "rising steps," symbolizing continuous growth and progress The towers taper gradually at refuge levels, creating a stepped silhouette that evokes the idea of "blooming sesame," while vertical lines accentuate their sleek, iconic presence The architecture is minimalist, employing modern techniques to create a timeless design. At the top, the Four Seasons Hall offers a panoramic leisure space with stunning sea views during the day and transforms into a glowing beacon at night, visible from both the sea and the city, solidifying its role as a defining landmark in Ningde’s skyline
Southwest Aerial view
TheSuper-TallTowerDesign
Inspired by the theme of continuous growth, the tower adopts a tiered form, stepping up at refuge levels to symbolize prosperity Vertical lines enhance its sleek, iconic presence, while modern design elements ensure timeless appeal. By day, it offers a panoramic sea-view retreat, and by night, it transforms into a luminous beacon an iconic addition to both the skyline and the waterfront.
FlexibilityofOfficeSpacesforRent
The commercial office complex consists of three towers, designed to offer maximum flexibility for tenants of varying sizes and needs.
Whole-floor: 1,263 sqm open-plan spaces
Modular units: 30–110 sqm for smaller businesses
Custom layouts: Tailored to tenant needs
This flexible leasing strategy ensures the complex can accommodate a diverse range of businesses, from growing startups to established enterprises, making it a dynamic hub for Ningde’s business community.
Idea Sketch
Northeast Aerial view
West Elevation
Section A-A
Section B-B
Section
SustainabilityStrategy
Drawing inspiration from the surrounding environment, the design seamlessly integrates the natural beauty of East Moon Lake with the architectural form of the building podium, creating a dynamic ecological interaction This fusion of nature and architecture establishes a distinctive landscape identity for the site.
The project prioritizes a green architectural approach, integrating industrial cultural, and environmental eco By incorporating sustainable tech d considering the building's enti from construction to operation o set a new standa con n development a e rk commercial hub
Central Public- Spaces Rendering
Pleasantthree-dimensionalgreening
The project integrates multi-level greenery underground courtyards, ground-level gardens, interior plants, platform landscaping, and rooftop gardens to create a healthy, eco-friendly environment This system not only beautifies the space but also improves air quality, regulates humidity, and reduces harmful substances like formaldehyde and bacteria As indoor oxygen levels rise, the body benefits from a better oxygen supply, enhancing energy and productivity. The greenery offers both aesthetic enjoyment and functional benefits, contributing to a sustainable, vibrant atmosphere.
Three Dimentional Greening
Beijing TianYiUrbanRenewal
2021
Commissioned Project (Under Construction)
Concept Design
Renovation of Office building (Work for BIAD)
Beijing, China
ProjectOverview
The Tianyi Headquarters Urban Renewal Project transforms an abandoned commercial area into a modern office complex in the heart of the city The goal is to create a business district that not only offers efficient office spaces but also enhances the urban environment and stimulates economic growth through thoughtfully designed public spaces.
The project preserves the existing building while introducing modern, flexible workspaces Sustainability is a key focus, with green spaces and energy-efficient systems integrated throughout, ensuring the development serves both the work environment and the community This project sets a new standard for urban renewal
MyContributions
Conceptualization
Architectural Design
Collaboration
Sustainability
Client Presentations
ProjectHightlights
Three Proposals
Cultural and Modern Fusion
Public Integration
Sustainability
Urban Revitalization
DesignStrategy
The design strategy simplifies and reclads the complex facade of the existing building, creating a modern, unified aesthetic By integrating the building and Tianheng as a single entity, we aim to enhance the urban frontage and elevate the city’s image The entrance will be highlighted between the two buildings, establishing a clear and inviting focal point Additionally, the rear commercial space will be reimagined as flexible office areas, combining functionality with visual appeal
ThreeConcept
Scheme 1: The design integrates 259 and Tianheng, creating a unified urban facade. The entrance is highlighted between two buildings.
Scheme 3: The overhanging platform integrates the 259 residential building and the base, creating an open public space
glass facade forms a minimalist, crystal-clear box, contrasting with the surrounding buildings
Scheme 2: The building features a simple, pure design that contrasts with its surroundings Vertical lines emphasize height, while the glass curtain wall ensures ample light and scenic views
Scheme1-DynamicMountainViews
The architectural concept draws inspiration from the classical landscape ideas of " 可望，可游，可居 " (viewable, explorative, and habitable) and "横看成岭侧
成峰" (ridges from one angle, peaks from another) The design reflects the northern landscape's blend of towering peaks and flowing water, where rugged mountains rise in the foreground, with homes nestled within, creating a dynamic and varied view
Aerial View Rendering
Open Block: Entrance Atrium
The open site boundary creates an urban living room, seamlessly blending landscape and public space to encourage community interaction. A central axis and water feature unify the area, forming the heart of the development
Scheme2-TheGatetotheUrbanGarden
Scheme 2’s design concept divides the space by function, with the city-facing side separated by a green valley that highlights sustainability and the garden office concept
Before After
Scheme3-UrbanFusion
The design concept emphasizes urban integration, seamlessly blending contemporary architecture with the surrounding environment to establish a strong connection between the city and the building, enhancing both functionality and aesthetic appeal
Aerial View Rendering
5 Beijing FengShengHighSchool
2023
Commissioned Project (Under construction)
Concept Design
Education Architecture (Work for BIAD) Beijing, China
ProjectOverview
ProjectOverview
Fengsheng High School, located in the heart of Beijing, seamlessly blends modern educational concepts with sustainable design. The school features a vertical layout to maximize limited urban space, enhancing connectivity and spatial flow. Drawing inspiration from Beijing’s architectural heritage, elements such as grey brick are integrated with contemporary sustainable strategies, striking a balance between tradition and modernity Sunken courtyards and rooftop greenery provide open, interactive learning spaces while optimizing natural resources for a healthier educational environment.
The school’s learning spaces are highly adaptable, supporting diverse teaching methods through smart classrooms and flexible furniture Sustainability is a core focus, incorporating the "Sponge City" concept with rainwater gardens, energyefficient systems, and green infrastructure to minimize environmental impact and foster environmental awareness among students.
MyContributions
Conceptual Design
Key Facilities Design
Sustainability Integration
Cultural & Aesthetic Design
Team Coordination
Presentations
ProjectHightlights
Vertical Design
Cultural Integration
Sustainability
Flexible Spaces
Outdoor Integration
SiteAnalysis
and building height
Through site analysis, the design considers the project's proximity to Xicheng Jinghua Community on the west and Zhuanta Hutong residences on the north. To minimize mutual impact, the layout strategically addresses sunlight exposure and shading for nearby housing. Additionally, the southern and western façades are optimized to enhance the project's urban presence and visual appeal
Aerial View Rendering
Sunlight
analysis
Skyline analysis
DesignStrategy
The design seamlessly integrates education with nature while balancing urban presence and residential harmony By mitigating shading impact on nearby housing, it ensures ample sunlight and minimizes disruption The campus fosters openness, connectivity, and diverse activity spaces, creating an interactive and adaptable learning environment that enhances both functionality and the cityscape.
By integrating three ground-level design strategies, the project establishes a seamless connection between the basement, ground floor, and second floor The interplay of spaces, combined with a vertical circulation system, creates a dynamic and porous architectural form, offering a multidimensional and exploratory experience.
Vertical Sc
BlendingTraditionwithModernity
The façade design and spatial layout of the project aim to seamlessly blend with the surrounding historical context while introducing modern elements. The use of grey bricks as the primary material, enhanced by strategically placed vibrant accents, creates a harmonious balance between tradition and innovation The design incorporates two sunken courtyards, integrating classic features with contemporary simplicity The overall aesthetic emphasizes clean lines and an open, inviting atmosphere, merging functionality with visual appeal The spatial organization follows a "3+1" layout, optimizing space efficiency while fostering a dynamic and engaging environment for users
South View Rendering
6 InteriorDesignPractices
2019 - 2023
Interior Design Work cases (Under Construction)
Residencial Building (Work for BIAD) Beijing, China
