Xi’an Jiaotong University Selected works 2022-2024
Applying for Architectural Design MArch ,UCL
Email: yihan__wang@outlook.com
TEL: +86 18219913142
Yihan Wang
My interest in architecture originated from my experiences as a city “wanderer” - the different architectural spaces and environments provided me with unique experiences and memories that cannot be replicated. As I delved deeper into studying architecture, the most captivating aspect for me was the wonderful connection that architecture and urban environments establish with people and society through various design strategies and methods. Therefore, in my design projects, I focus on exploring how to utilize suitable design methods to bring out the inherent qualities of space and environment, inspiring a sense of belonging in people towards architecture and the environment.
/ RECHARGED IN ROUTE, REFRESHED IN LIFE. Hikers’ pavilion design 02 / HATCH WITH COLUMNS Library design
design
01/ Recharged in Route, Refreshed in Life.
Hikers' Pavilions
Academic Studio Design
From March, 2024 to June, 2024 Rockport, US Individual Work Instructor: Dingqing Zhang
Hidden Lake Lookout is a well trafficked hike in North Cascades National Park, and the nearby Hidden Lake is a popular backcountry camping destination, making this a very busy spot for outdoor recreationalists. To reach the mountaintop and enjoy the beautiful scenery, hikers need to embark on a roughly four-hour trek. Given the significant elevation gain and lack of supply facilities along the way, the journey can be quite challenging. Therefore, this design proposes the establishment of rest stops along the route and at the mountaintop to enhance the hikers' overall travel experience.
In today’s high-pressure life, a wonderful outdoor hiking trip that involves close contact with nature can greatly alleviate stress and provide the energy needed to move forward.
A BETTER ADVENTURE
Hikers can follow the trail from the trailhead through dense vegetation and meadows filled with flowers in early summer. The hike then transitions to rocky slopes with heather, before turning south to sandy terrain with granite boulders.
The natural environment is the basis for a pleasant short trip, but the lack of necessary facilities makes it difficult to meet the needs of hikers.
In order to provide a better experience for the hikers, after considering the distance and terrain features, I added shelters for hikers to rest and adjust, as well as an observatory with panoramic views from the highest point. While meeting the needs of the crowd, it creates a friendly space for people to interact with each other and with nature.
Fig.1
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Fig.3
Along the climbing path, there are two timber shelters strategically positioned at suitable intervals, providing a peaceful and supportive environment for hikers.
The site, located on a slope surrounded by trees and vegetation, positions the shelter away from the mountain to prevent debris. It offers hikers a scenic view and promotes sight interactions. With three levels providing various functions, different desires are considered for a better rest experience.
Bottom view of the shelter
Fig.2 Section generation
Fig.3 Construction generation
Fig.4 Site plan of place A 1:1000
Fig.5 Site plan of place B 1:1000 Fig.6 General plan 1:150
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Fig.2
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Fig.4
Fig.5
A BREATHING BREAK
In the shelter, recharge effectively. You can sit by the fireplace to get cozy, gaze out the window at the path you've traveled, or take a short nap in the rest area, gaining full of energy.
Fig.6
Fig.5 Fig.1
PHASE 2: AT THE SUMMIT
The observation tower is positioned at the apex of the climbing route and provides a sweeping panorama. Located on the summit with large granite boulders on a sandy base, the site offers multiple viewing options for hikers ascending to the top. Featuring six platforms at various heights, it provides hikers with unique visual experiences and spaces for short breaks, catering to different desires during long journeys.
Fig.1 Front view of the observatory
Fig.2 Section generation
Fig.3 Construction generation
Fig.4 Site plan 1:1000
Fig.5 General plan 1:150
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Fig.4
The spiral staircase inside the observation tower serves as the central vertical connection. As you ascend the steps, you can access five platforms at varying heights, each offering unique visual experiences both indoors and outdoors.
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In the observation, the sequence of vertical spaces will guide you gradually closer to the highest point, offering a sense of ascending elevation as you climb through each level, ultimately leading to the pinnacle where breathtaking views await.
You can enjoy different views from platforms at various heights, ultimately merging into a dynamic panoramic experience.
02 /
Hatch with Columns
Library based on a philosophical grammar
Academic Studio Design
From July, 2024 to September, 2024 Xi'an, China
Individual Work
Instructor: Xianxian Dang
In his influential work "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus," philosopher Ludwig Wittgenstein posited that by clarifying language's mechanics, we can resolve all philosophical dilemmas. This involves deconstructing language into an "ideal language" built on logical symbols to eradicate ambiguity and attain absolute clarity of thought.
Architecturally, Wittgenstein's theory parallels the creation of spaces through the manipulation of architectural languages. By establishing clear language boundaries, we define the scope of meaningful thought and explore the limits of architectural expression.
Analyzing the relationship between language and the world in "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus" offers insights into architectural design. By comparing classic cases, such as unconventional uses of columns to create space with intrinsic character, we see the intersection of functional needs and desires. This notion of spatial "desire" aligns with Wittgenstein's concept of the "unspeakable" boundary, emphasizing the intangible aspects of architecture that transcend mere description.
INSPIRATION
As one of the most important philosophers of the twentieth century, Ludwig Wittgenstein proposed in his seminal work "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus" that by clearly demonstrating how language functions, we can fundamentally solve all philosophical problems.
By breaking down everyday language into an "ideal language" constructed through logical symbols and basic propositions, people can eliminate all ambiguities and errors in language, thereby achieving absolute clarity of thought and resolving all philosophical issues.
From the perspective of an architect, Wittgenstein's early philosophy exhibits remarkable isomorphism with architecture — we can view a building as a product composed of propositions woven from various architectural languages. We can attempt to use this as the sole methodology and create unexpected spaces.
Furthermore, by delineating clear boundaries for what language can express, which in turn helps define the boundaries of meaningful thought that humans can engage in. This approach also helps us consider where exactly are the boundaries of what we can "say" through the language of architecture itself.
By analyzing the relationship between the world and language in "Tractatus Logico-Philosophicus," a mapping of its theory at the architectural level is derived. Through comparison and analysis, I chose several classic cases that demonstrate creative utilization of the interior space within "columns."
In conventional architecture, columns stand independently as load-bearing elements. In the chosen case, however, the column is seen as a hollow structure that not only contains space with an intrinsic character, but also serves as an important tool for the program to be extrapolated.
Among them, Kahn believed that space is the " desire " of the user for space. In real life, functional needs can be accurately described in terms of language and dimensions, but the space that supports desires cannot be described and falls into an unmeasurable category, corresponding to Wittgenstein's theory of the "unspeakable" boundary
Normal column
Serving as individual load-bearing element.
Square column with interior space Kahn transformed the corner columns, opening up the interior space, serving as transitional spaces within the building as well as hollow structure.
Square column with complex interior space Zumthor implanted many column-like entities into the overall plan, and by varying their internal forms, created architectural spaces with different functions and atmospheres.
Round column with complex interior space Toyo Ito fully utilized the internal space of columns for auxiliary functions such as vertical circulation. By distributing loads among various large columns, he created new spatial configurations.
Fig.1 Fig.2
Can Lis House, Jørn Oberg Utzon
Trenton Bath House, Louis Kahn
Thermal Vals, Peter Zumthor
Sendai Mediatheque, Toyo Ito
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Fig.3 Fig.4
Fig.5
Fig.1 Cover of the book
Fig.2 Methodology
Fig.3 Photo of normal columns
Fig.4 Concept of space made up of "columns"
Fig.5 Reflection on theory
Fig.6 Case analysis
Drawing insights from classic cases, the ideal architectural grammar table was crafted. Selecting the ubiquitous square and circular "columns" as the foundational elements, six manipulation techniques – Cut, Punch, Nest, Lengthen, Scale, and array – were introduced to sculpt the "columns". This process led to the amalgamation of the resulting small space types (Atomic facts) to form intricate spatial compositions (Facts).
Integrating the functional requirements of the library, multiple attempts are made to combine the "Facts" section of the Table of Ideal Architectural Grammar. Based on the dimensional relationships and closure of the plan, suitable units are assembled and nested, resulting in the final plan texture.
Fig.2
Fig.1 Table of Idea architectural grammar Fig.2 Concept of generation
Nestled in Xi'an, renowned as one of the oldest ancient capitals in China, exuding a profound cultural aura. The site's surroundings boast a tapestry of complexity, adorned with historical gems like the Temple of Heaven,
Based on research on library spaces, I attempted to use ideal architectural grammar for orderly spatial design. By assigning different functions to different “Facts” of the space, I created a clearly hierarchical overall layout. However, this design does not mean being closed off to the public. On the contrary, through fixed walls and columns for clear hierarchical divisions, each part’s functionality can be maximized, allowing each type of user to find their place.
The designed "fact" is assembled according to the type of function and the accessibility of each unit is taken into account to arrive at the whole.
Stairs and restrooms are located in the corners for ease of use and transportation. The entrance is located on the south side, where the area is more open, while the north side is dominated by a more private reading area, providing an environment more conducive to reading.
Fig.3
Fig.1 Second floor plan
Fig.2 Third floor plan Fig.3 Analysis of the assembly of "Facts" Fig.4 View of the individual study area
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A CULTURAL
SPACE FILLED WITH WARMTH
This library is not simply a commercial venue where books are sold. It serves as a vital and welcoming cultural space. For every individual, a cozy reading experience within its walls has the potential to create a lasting sense of warmth, offering a refreshing respite from the fast-paced atmosphere of modern society.
In this library, the value goes beyond transactions; it lies in the nurturing of minds and hearts, providing a sanctuary for intellectual growth and emotional enrichment. It stands as a beacon of knowledge and comfort, inviting all to explore, learn, and find solace in the pages of its books.
1. Dark grey elastic exterior paint
2. 6mm Anti-crack mortar composite alkali
3. Fiberglass mesh sheet
4. 80mm Polystyrene insulation board
5. 5mm Polyurethane waterproof coat
6. 15mm Cement mortar
7. Concrete hollow brickwork wall
8. Plaster
9. Birch lightweight board
10. Ground floor gravel tiles
11. 5mm Epoxy self leveling mortar
12. Epoxy dilute daub
13. 50mm C30 Fine aggregate cement
14. 1mm Polyurethane waterproof coat
15. 20mm 1:3 Cement mortar screed coat
16. 100mm C20 concrete base
17. 10mm Lime mortar segragation
18. 4mm Polyurea DPM
19. 60mm C15 concrete base
20. 150mm 3:7 lime soil-base
21. Compacted soil
Fig.1 Detail of the wall & shelf 1:20
Fig.2 View of atrium with staircase
Fig.3 View of reference area
Fig.2
Vacant-land Madrigal
Design for Mental Health in High Density
Sprawl
Honorable Mention
in UIA-HYP Cup 2023 International Student Competition
China’s rural-urban transformation has happened very fast. The population living in cities has more or less tripled in the space of 40 years. Of the 30+megacities of over 10 million residents in the world, almost half are located in China. One particular outcome of China’s rapid urbanization is the occurrence of speculatively constructed and relatively slow to be occupied areas that are sometimes called ‘ghost towns’. It should be noted that from the point of view of urban planning this qualification is
premature, as well as defeatist. We would like to describe such developments without preconceived judgement as ‘high-density sprawl’.
Without jumping to any conclusions about cause and effect, it is safe to say that there is a correlation between urban growth and the growth of various human health-related problems. Growth spurts are naturally experienced as painful. Worldwide, mental health problems occupy a large slice on the spectrum
of disorders and diseases. The adaptation to a new urban life is challenging for the planet, its nations, communities and individuals alike.
As designers, we would like to do something creative when it comes to improving health, in particular mental health, in high-density sprawl situations.
HIGH DENSITY SPRAWL, BUT VACANT LAND.
In China, the emergence of vacant land in rapidly expanding large cities is often attributed to factors like inadequate investment and land speculation. This issue is prevalent in high-density urban sprawl areas, symbolizing the inefficient use of urban spatial resources. How to efficiently utilize this temporarily vacant land is an issue that needs to be considered.
Due to being undeveloped, urban vacant land harbor a wealth of native plants, making them highly valuable in dense city environments.
Fig.1 Causes of vacant land
Fig.2 Distribution of vacant land
Fig.3 Character of vacant land
Fig.4 Topographic features of vacant land
Fig.5 Photo of vacant land
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Dot Density of Vacant Land /km 2
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NOMADIC LIFE FOR MENTAL
HEALTH
The incremental low-income mobile population plays a crucial role in the urban communities. Addressing their psychological well-being is of utmost importance.
Historically, traditional nomads migrated in search of essential resources like water and grazing lands, while modern-day nomads seek better opportunities as they move between cities. In response to economic pressures, a growing number of "urban nomads" are congregating in the old city. The presence of urban vacant lands in high-density areas presents a promising opportunity to expand their living options.
Our aim is to establish a sustainable settlement solution for these individuals by creating a nomadic community that integrates seamlessly into the urban landscape and offers essential services.
Mobile population
AROUND THE TREES
Residential units are organized around central tree holes, expanding in various directions based on demand. Small residential clusters surround larger tree holes, creating a network of public spaces and vertical transportation connections.
This layout fosters a cohesive community environment, offering a shared public space for residents to interact and customize their living preferences.
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COMPOSITION OF THE COLLECTIVE LIVING
The innovative design features a mobile sunshade system using tree-hole blocks and functional partitions that can be adjusted based on user needs.
Residential modules are integrated around existing trees and shrubs, offering flexibility to expand or contract according to occupants' requirements. The layout of small modular frameworks aligns with the site's original trees and shrubs, divided by varying heights.
Analyzing the height differences in urban vacant land informs the design of traffic corridors, creating a dynamic spatial experience.
By incorporating mobile nomadic frames around common trees and shrubs, the design emphasizes convenience and replicability.
Our approach preserves the natural arrangement of trees and shrubs in urban spaces, determining the scale of large frameworks based on site analysis and tree diameters.
LIVING & GROWING
Fig.1 View of community activity center
Fig.2 View of courtyard of living unit
Fig.3 Section scene display 1:150
Fig.4 Plan of the settlement 1:300
The design harmoniously blends natural and social interactions, forming a circular and aesthetically pleasing community. Stairs seamlessly connect the ground corridor to the living floors, allowing residents to navigate through the urban open space and wooded corridors, fostering
a serene and oxygen-rich environment.
Living spaces surround plantings on the living floor, enabling residents to customize their homes based on individual needs, with shared service spaces like kitchens and bathrooms
serving as communal hubs.
The division of space creates semi-public areas that encourage social interactions and conversations among residents.
Fig.1&2
Fig.3
SUSTAINABLE NOMADIC HOME
Our design transforms urban vacant land into nomadic homes for urban nomads, offering a flexible living solution that can be easily relocated.
To improve construction efficiency and reduce environmental impact, we chose lightweight components as the primary building materials. These lightweight components not only make the settlement easy to assemble and dismantle quickly but also contribute to achieving sustainable goals through reuse. Additionally, we utilized translucent waterproof membranes as the top layer of cover to ensure ample natural lighting inside the building, effectively waterproof the structure, and enhance its durability and sustainability.
These settlements are designed to offer residents ample access to natural sunlight, lush green spaces provided by the exsiting trees on the site, and opportunities for social interactions, all of which contribute to alleviating psychological stress and promoting overall well-being. By creating a sense of community, we aim to help urban nomads establish a sustainable relationship with the urban environment for improved living conditions.
Fig.1 View of home theater
Fig.2 View of bedroom
Fig.3 View of semi-public space
Fig.4 View of communication centre
Fig.5 View of shared reading space
Fig.6 View of shared kitchen
Fig.7 Membrane for the sunshade
Fig.8 Lightweight support rod
Fig.9 Lightweight flexible wall
Fig.10 Construction life cycle
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Fig.8 Fig.10
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04/ A Moment of Tranquility Hotel in
Mafang Village
Academic Studio Design
From October, 2022 to December 2022
Individual Work
Yan'an, Shaanxi
Instructor: Dian Zhou
In the current rapid urbanization development, cities are crowded and restless. Under the inescapable pressure of daily life, we may need a place that can shield us from the outside noise, interact with traditional culture, and enjoy moments of tranquility in nature. Located in Ma Fang Village, one of China's important spiritual birthplaces, the hotel is designed for this purpose. Serving as a hotel that embodies rural revitalization and a new type of accommodation experience, it awaits the arrival of various groups of people.
MODULARITY BENEFITS
Given the ever-changing society, new rural hotels like ours in Ma Fang Village, Yan'an, need to consider diverse interests. Our strategy focuses on cultural tourism, leveraging the area's rich history and environment to offer sustainable leisure and eco-labor experiences.
Based on the ontological perspective of the building type “hotel”, the guest room is taken as the “primitive” module, and the other functional spaces and the primitive module search for the mathematical combination relationship to get the modularized architectural space with rich order.
Step 2
Grouping
Step 3
Connecting each section with porches and inserting courtyards.
Fig.1 Benefits analysis
Fig.2
The building on the north side of the site is primarily used for public services, offering dining, leisure, meeting, and other multifunctional spaces. The south side area, with better scenery, is dedicated to three main guest room buildings.
Based on the characteristics of traditional Yan'an dwellings - cave dwellings and courtyard-style buildings, the hotel's design has been
completed. Visitors can experience cave-style rooms and natural courtyards enclosed by architectural blocks, continuing the traditional residential living experience.
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Fig.5 Fig.6
THE POTENTIAL FOR GROWTH
The beautiful natural scenery, the memorable historical and cultural heritage, and the tranquil living atmosphere are all attractions that the hotel possesses. Maximizing these advantages in the design is the starting point for the designers.
Utilizing the layout of the buildings to create courtyards to introduce more natural landscapes, ensuring that each room has a perfect view, providing platforms for communication, and setting up public spaces for multifunctional activities, all of these elements will offer visitors a new life experience and support the hotel's sustainable operations. In this new rural development experiment, the potential impact that a hotel can bring is still being continuously discovered.
