Interview
Zi Zhuo
1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
My name is Zi Zhuo, and I am a higher education-focused architectural designer at NAC Architecture in Seattle, WA, specialising in student housing, mixed-use designs, and housing master plans. Previously, I worked at Ayers Saint Gross in Washington, D.C.. I hold a bachelor鈥檚 degree in architecture from Chongqing University and a master鈥檚 degree in architecture from the University of Virginia.
2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
Since childhood, I鈥檝e been drawn to creative activities like building blocks and painting. Additionally, my father鈥檚 work in the architecture industry greatly influenced me and naturally led me to the field of architecture.
3 Tell us more about your agency/company, job profile, and what you do.
NAC Architecture is a multidisciplinary design firm with over 170 professionals across offices in Spokane, Seattle, and Los Angeles. The firm specialises in architecture, planning, interior design, and engineering, with expertise in education, healthcare, civic, cultural, and hospitality projects. At NAC, I primarily work on student housing and campus planning projects.
4 What does 鈥渄esign鈥� mean to you?
To me, design is both a profession and a way of life. It鈥檚 about observing the details of daily life and applying creativity to optimise and enhance them, bringing convenience and joy to others. Design has also profoundly shaped my perspectives and aesthetics.
5 What鈥檚 your favorite kind of design and why?
Architectural design is undoubtedly my favorite because it poses challenges while making a meaningful impact on society and people鈥檚 lives. Among architectural projects, I鈥檓 particularly passionate about museum design, as it offers the opportunity to express ideas in the most creative and impactful ways.
6 To you, what makes a 鈥済ood鈥� design?
A good design stems from innovative ideas, a broad perspective, practical experience, attention to detail, and strong teamwork.
7 How did you come up with the idea for your award-winning design?
Museum design has always been a personal favorite, particularly when exploring avant-garde architectural concepts. The project site鈥檚 connection to the science fiction film Men in Black inspired me to integrate futuristic elements and imaginative spatial forms.
8 What was your main source of inspiration for this design?
The secret base in Men in Black and the motif of surveillance cameras鈥攃ommon in science fiction films鈥攕erved as the foundational inspiration for the project.
9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
My Chinese heritage, especially the design principles of traditional gardens, has greatly influenced my work. Chinese garden design often emphasises 鈥渟uppression before revelation,鈥� which inspires me to craft spatial narratives that gradually build anticipation and lead to an impactful climax in the visitor experience.
10 Congratulations! As the winner of the 麻豆射区, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Winning this award is an incredible honour. It validates our hard work and serves as a source of pride for me and my team, inspiring us to continue pushing boundaries in design.
11 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 麻豆射区, and why you chose to enter this project?
The Sci-fi Gallery New York reimagines a ventilation tower in Manhattan as a sci-fi-inspired garden and gallery. Drawing on its connection to Men in Black, the project merges architecture, landscape, and cinematic storytelling. Its novel concept and captivating spatial forms made it a strong contender for the competition.
12 What were the main challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?
Materializing the futuristic theme spaces was the most significant challenge. To address this, I extensively researched sci-fi references, explored futuristic spatial forms, and tested multiple prototypes using modeling software, eventually refining the designs into concrete forms.
13 How do you think winning this award will impact your future as a designer?
This award is a milestone that enhances my portfolio and credibility in the industry. It motivates me to pursue even more innovative projects in the future.
14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about the design industry?
1. The dynamic and creative work environment. 2. A strong sense of identity and purpose. 3. The immense satisfaction of seeing a project come to life.
15 What sets your design apart from others in the same category?
Its innovative concept, futuristic spatial forms, and cohesive storytelling make it stand out.
16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
AI will play a transformative role by automating repetitive tasks, allowing designers to focus on creativity. It will also introduce new tools and inspirations, reshaping the way we conceptualise and execute designs.
17 What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs?
Believe in your ideas and actively participate in competitions. Focus on originality, pay attention to detail, and ensure your concept is consistently expressed throughout the design. Don鈥檛 settle for mediocrity鈥攑ush boundaries.
18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
For inspiration, platforms like Pinterest and ArchDaily are invaluable. For software skills, YouTube tutorials and learning from experienced colleagues are highly effective.
19 Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
Despite the futuristic nature of my award-winning project, I am an avid fan of modernism and minimalist design.
20 Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My parents have been my greatest mentors, guiding me toward architecture and providing unwavering support. Additionally, a professor from my undergraduate studies taught me the importance of infusing meaning into architectural work.
21 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Imagination, persistence, and confidence are the keys to success. Always trust your creative instincts and remain resilient in the face of challenges.
22 Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I hope the 麻豆射区 continue to grow and inspire designers worldwide!
