Interviews med 00group

I studied architecture at Columbia University in New York and worked at several internationally renowned architectural firms, including BIG, Steven Holl Architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and UNStudio. In 2019, I co-founded 00GROUP in Shanghai, where we explore experimental architecture and new relationships between people, space, and nature.

I have always been interested in art, creativity, and how things are made. Architecture fascinated me because it combines artistic imagination with real-world experiences. Over time, I discovered that design is not only about creating buildings, but also about questioning conventions and imagining new possibilities.

Our three main priorities are a strong architectural concept, innovative spatial experiences, and the relationship between architecture and nature. We begin with a prototype and develop it through our “Split & Gather” method, using sketches, physical models, and computational design tools to explore unexpected possibilities.

Excitement and curiosity. My favorite moment is when an unexpected idea emerges during experimentation. I enjoy the early conceptual stages of design, when everything is still possible and imagination has no boundaries.

Living and working in different countries has shaped my perspective on architecture. My experiences in New York, Europe, and China exposed me to diverse cultures and ways of thinking. I believe this openness to different perspectives has been essential in developing my own experimental design approach.

My goal is to continue developing 00GROUP into an internationally recognized experimental architecture studio. I dream of creating projects where architecture and nature become inseparable, challenging the traditional definition of a building. I hope to explore more public spaces, cultural projects, and architectural installations around the world.

Stay curious and never stop experimenting. Don't rush to develop a signature style or follow trends. Instead, build your own way of thinking, explore different disciplines, and learn from both successes and failures. Most importantly, enjoy the creative process.

I believe the most important thing is to develop your own design philosophy rather than follow established formulas. Stay open to criticism, embrace experimentation, and don't be afraid to challenge your own ideas. A strong concept is important, but the ability to transform it into reality is equally essential.

My days are usually filled with design discussions, sketches, digital modeling, and project development. I enjoy starting with a new idea and exploring it through different iterations. The most exciting part of my day is discovering something unexpected during the design process.

I follow architecture, art, technology, and cultural developments through reading, traveling, and observing the world around me. However, I believe trends should inspire rather than define our work. I prefer exploring ideas that have lasting value instead of following temporary styles.

Good design should have a clear concept, respond intelligently to its context, and create meaningful experiences. I appreciate designs that appear simple but reveal unexpected possibilities. For me, originality is important, but it must be supported by thoughtful functionality and human experience.

A design is ready when its core concept, spatial experience, and practical requirements come together naturally. There is always room for improvement, but at some point, a design needs to move from experimentation into reality. I believe knowing when to stop is also part of being a good designer.

One of our largest and most ambitious projects is The Cosmic Creek, a mixed-use commercial and public space development in Chengdu, China. It brings together architecture, landscape, and urban life through our “Split & Gather” philosophy. The project challenges the conventional shopping mall typology by creating a continuous, nature-integrated spatial experience.

One of my favorite architects is Rem Koolhaas. I admire his ability to question architectural conventions and rethink the relationship between buildings, programs, and cities. His work reminds me that architecture is not simply about form, but also about ideas and new ways of understanding the world.

I live and work in Shanghai, a city where traditional culture and contemporary urban life constantly interact. Traveling, reading, and exploring different cultures are important parts of my life. I believe creativity comes from staying curious about the world, and many of my architectural ideas begin with observations outside architecture itself.

00GROUP is a small, collaborative, and experimental design studio. We value curiosity, independent thinking, and open discussions. Our philosophy is to challenge conventions while maintaining a strong connection between creativity and practical realization. We enjoy working with people who are passionate, open-minded, and willing to explore new possibilities together.

I believe architecture can contribute to society by creating more inclusive, accessible, and meaningful public spaces. Through our work, we aim to reconnect people with nature and improve everyday urban experiences. I also hope to contribute more to community-oriented and socially responsible design projects in the future.

The A' Design Award has been a valuable opportunity to share our work with an international audience and discover inspiring ideas from designers around the world. I appreciate the platform's recognition of creativity and innovation, and I hope it will lead to more meaningful exchanges and collaborations in the future.

I studied architecture at Columbia University in New York and later worked at BIG, Steven Holl Architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and UNStudio. In 2019, I co-founded 00GROUP in Shanghai, focusing on experimental architecture and innovative spatial experiences.

I am motivated by curiosity and the desire to create something unexpected. Architecture allows me to transform abstract ideas into real experiences and explore new relationships between people, space, and nature.

It was entirely my choice. I have always been fascinated by creativity and imagination, and architecture became the perfect way to combine artistic expression with the real world.

We design architecture, public spaces, and experimental installations. I would love to explore more cultural and public projects that challenge traditional building typologies and bring architecture closer to nature.

Stay curious, keep experimenting, and develop your own design philosophy. Don't focus on becoming a legend. Focus on creating meaningful work, questioning conventions, and enjoying the process of discovery.

A good designer solves problems creatively. A great designer questions the problems themselves and discovers possibilities that others haven't imagined.

A truly good design combines a strong concept, meaningful functionality, and an unexpected experience. It should not only respond to its context but also offer a new way of seeing or interacting with the world.

Good design improves everyday life, creates lasting value, and builds meaningful connections between people and their surroundings. Investing in good design is investing in better experiences and a better future.

I would love to design more small-scale experimental architecture and public installations that anyone can experience. I am particularly interested in creating playful spaces where people can reconnect with nature and rediscover curiosity in everyday life.

My dream is to create an architectural landscape where the boundaries between buildings, nature, and public space completely disappear. A place that feels less like a building and more like a new kind of natural environment.

Curiosity and experimentation. I believe the most interesting ideas often emerge when we challenge familiar rules and connect things that don't usually belong together. This is also the essence of our “Split & Gather” philosophy.

I admire architects such as Rem Koolhaas, Steven Holl, and Elizabeth Diller for their ability to challenge architectural conventions and explore new spatial possibilities. Their work has inspired me to see architecture as a field of continuous experimentation rather than a fixed set of rules.

I admire projects such as the Seattle Central Library by OMA and The High Line by Diller Scofidio + Renfro. Both challenge conventional architectural typologies and create unexpected relationships between architecture, public space, and urban life.

One of our most ambitious projects is The Cosmic Creek in Chengdu, China. It challenges the traditional shopping mall typology by transforming commercial architecture into a continuous landscape of fragmented forms, interconnected spaces, and nature. It represents our “Split & Gather” philosophy on an urban scale.

I believe the best way to improve is to stay curious and continuously explore different perspectives. Studying and working in different countries, reading, traveling, and experimenting with new ideas have all helped me develop my own approach to design.

I might have become an artist or a writer. I have always enjoyed exploring ideas, telling stories, and creating new worlds through imagination.

For me, design is about questioning what exists and imagining what could be. It is a process of discovering unexpected connections and transforming ideas into meaningful experiences.

My family, mentors, and colleagues have all played important roles in my journey. I am especially grateful to my co-founder, Gang, with whom I continuously exchange ideas, challenge assumptions, and develop our architectural vision at 00GROUP.

Curiosity, persistence, and the willingness to question conventions. Working with different architectural practices taught me to approach design from multiple perspectives, while founding 00GROUP gave me the freedom to develop my own architectural philosophy.

One of the biggest challenges was finding my own design voice while balancing creative ambition with real-world constraints. Establishing an independent studio also required learning how to transform experimental ideas into practical architectural solutions.

I believe designers should communicate the ideas behind their work, not just the final images. Sketches, diagrams, models, and stories can help people understand the design process and discover the thinking that makes a project unique.

We are continuing to develop The Cosmic Creek in Chengdu while exploring new architectural competitions, cultural projects, and experimental installations. In the future, we hope to push our “Split & Gather” philosophy further and create more architecture that goes beyond conventional buildings.

My ultimate goal is to expand the boundaries of architecture and challenge what a building can be. I hope to create spaces where architecture, nature, and human experiences become inseparable, offering new ways for people to interact with the world.

I believe people expect originality, vision, and the ability to turn creative ideas into reality. A designer should not only offer solutions but also bring fresh perspectives and unexpected possibilities.

Good design can make cities more inclusive, engaging, and connected to nature. Architecture has the power to bring people together, encourage interaction, and transform ordinary spaces into meaningful public experiences.

I am particularly excited about The Cosmic Creek, our ongoing mixed-use commercial and public space project in Chengdu. It explores how architecture can become a continuous landscape rather than a collection of separate buildings, bringing nature and urban life together.

The Cosmic Creek is one of the most rewarding projects for me. It has allowed us to develop our “Split & Gather” philosophy at a larger scale and explore how experimental architectural ideas can become real spaces for everyday public life.

I hope the industry becomes more open to experimentation and unconventional ideas, especially from emerging independent studios. I would also love to see greater emphasis on environmental responsibility, public experience, and long-term design value.

I believe the future of design will be increasingly interdisciplinary, combining architecture, technology, ecology, and art. The boundaries between buildings, landscapes, and interactive environments will become more fluid.

It depends on the scale and complexity of the project. An initial concept may develop within a few weeks, while a large architectural project can take several years to fully realize. I see design as an evolving process rather than a fixed timeline.

I usually begin by questioning the conventional understanding of the project. What if a building could become something entirely different? From there, we explore simple spatial prototypes and develop them through experimentation and our “Split & Gather” approach.

Stay curious, question conventions, and never stop imagining new possibilities.

I believe great design should set trends rather than follow them. Trends reflect the present, while innovative design has the potential to imagine and shape the future.

Technology is a powerful tool for exploring ideas that would otherwise be difficult to imagine or realize. Computational design and digital fabrication allow us to experiment with complex geometries, but technology should always serve the architectural concept, not define it.

We mainly use Rhino and Grasshopper for architectural modeling and computational design, alongside visualization tools, hand sketches, and physical models. We enjoy combining digital technologies with hands-on experimentation throughout the design process.

Color, materials, and atmosphere are essential in shaping how people experience a space. I see them not simply as decorative elements, but as tools to create emotions, enhance spatial relationships, and connect architecture with its surroundings.

I would love people to ask, "Why does architecture have to look like a building?" This question reflects our ambition to challenge conventional boundaries and explore new possibilities for architecture.

My first reaction is usually curiosity. I wonder how the designer arrived at such an idea and what inspired their thinking. Great design often makes me question my own assumptions and inspires me to explore further.

Absolutely. I believe the best ideas often emerge through collaboration. My ideal design partner is someone who thinks differently, challenges my assumptions, and shares a passion for experimentation. This is also how we work together at 00GROUP.

The architects and creative teams I worked with at BIG, Steven Holl Architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and UNStudio have greatly influenced my thinking. My ongoing collaboration with my co-founder, Gang, has also been essential in shaping our design philosophy.

Books such as Delirious New York and S,M,L,XL by Rem Koolhaas have influenced my understanding of architecture. I am particularly interested in books that challenge established ideas and explore unexpected relationships between architecture, culture, and urban life.

Through continuous experimentation, observation, and practice. Working in different architectural environments taught me diverse approaches to design, while running my own studio has pushed me to develop independent thinking and turn experimental ideas into reality.

I would love to have a conversation with Leonardo da Vinci. His ability to move freely between art, science, engineering, and imagination is fascinating. I would be curious to hear how he approached creativity without the boundaries of different disciplines.

I am grateful for the recognition, as it encourages us to continue exploring new ideas. However, I believe the real value of design lies in the work itself rather than fame. For me, the most rewarding achievement is seeing an idea become a meaningful experience.

My favorite color is green, my favorite places are cities where architecture and nature coexist, and my favorite season is autumn. I enjoy Sichuan food, architecture books, and beautifully crafted everyday objects. I appreciate brands that combine thoughtful design with a strong creative identity.

One funny thing about being an architect is that I can never simply enjoy a building without analyzing it. Even during vacations, I often find myself studying staircases, materials, and spatial details. Sometimes traveling feels like another form of working!

Discovering a new idea always makes my day. I find motivation in curiosity, experimentation, and the excitement of creating something that didn't exist before. Even a small breakthrough in a design can bring enormous satisfaction.

Not necessarily! But I was always curious about the world and enjoyed imagining different possibilities. Looking back, I think that curiosity was probably the beginning of my journey into design.

I imagine a future where the boundaries between nature, technology, and architecture become almost invisible. Buildings may no longer be static objects but evolving environments that adapt to people and ecosystems. Perhaps in a thousand years, architecture will look more like nature than the buildings we know today.

At 00GROUP, we believe architecture is not just about buildings, but about imagining new ways of living and experiencing the world. Through our “Split & Gather” philosophy, we hope to create unexpected connections between people, space, and nature. Above all, we want our work to inspire curiosity and remind people that architecture can always be something more.

I studied architecture at Columbia University in New York and later worked at several international architectural firms, including BIG, Steven Holl Architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and UNStudio.

In 2019, I co-founded 00GROUP in Shanghai. I have always been interested in art and design, especially how architecture can challenge conventional ideas and create new relationships between people, space, and nature.

00GROUP is an experimental architecture and design studio founded in Shanghai in 2019.

Our design philosophy is rooted in **“Split & Gather”** — a process of breaking apart conventional architectural forms and reassembling them to create unexpected spatial relationships. Through fragmentation, transformation, and reconnection, we blur the boundaries between architecture, landscape, and public space.

We aim to create **architecture beyond buildings**, where nature, people, and space become part of one continuous experience.

For me, design is about questioning what already exists and imagining what could be. It is not simply about creating forms, but about discovering unexpected possibilities between people, space, and nature. Good design should inspire curiosity, encourage interaction, and bring a little surprise into everyday life.

I enjoy designing projects that challenge conventional architectural typologies, especially public spaces, cultural buildings, and architecture integrated with nature. I am particularly drawn to projects that allow us to experiment with spatial relationships and create unexpected experiences, where architecture becomes more than just a building.

One of my favorite projects is The Cosmic Creek, a mixed-use commercial and public space project in Chengdu, China.

The project explores our “Split & Gather” philosophy by transforming conventional commercial architecture into a flowing landscape of fragmented forms, interconnected spaces, and nature.

What excites me most is how architecture becomes part of the landscape, allowing people to explore, interact, and discover unexpected experiences beyond traditional buildings.

The first project I worked on professionally was a school design during my undergraduate studies. It was an exciting experience that introduced me to the process of turning architectural ideas into real-world design solutions.

I am particularly interested in computational design and digital fabrication technologies, as they allow us to explore complex geometries and unconventional spatial possibilities. In terms of materials, I enjoy combining natural materials such as wood and stone with contemporary materials like steel and glass, creating an interesting dialogue between nature and technology.

I feel most creative after traveling or reading a good book. Experiencing different cultures, places, and ideas often gives me fresh perspectives and inspires unexpected design possibilities.

I focus most on the architectural prototype — the fundamental idea or spatial concept behind a design. I enjoy exploring how a simple prototype can be transformed, fragmented, and reassembled to create unexpected forms and spatial experiences.

Excitement! I love the process of exploring new ideas and discovering unexpected possibilities. For me, design is always an exciting journey of experimentation and imagination.

A sense of excitement and fulfillment. Seeing an abstract idea become a real space is incredibly rewarding, especially when people begin to interact with it in ways we never imagined.

A successful design goes beyond aesthetics and functionality. It creates meaningful experiences, inspires curiosity, and brings unexpected possibilities into everyday life. Most importantly, it establishes a lasting connection between people, space, and nature.

I first look at the originality of the concept and the quality of the spatial experience. A good design should have a clear idea, challenge conventions, and create something meaningful rather than simply being visually attractive.

I believe designers have a responsibility to create a better relationship between people, architecture, and nature. Design should not only solve practical problems but also contribute positively to public life and the environment.

I believe design is becoming more interdisciplinary, with technology, nature, and human experience increasingly connected. The future of design will be less about creating isolated objects and more about developing adaptive, interactive, and sustainable environments.

We are currently focusing on architectural projects and experimental design research. In the future, we hope to organize an exhibition that explores our “Split & Gather” philosophy through architectural models, installations, and spatial experiments.

My inspiration comes from traveling, reading, art, nature, and everyday observations. I enjoy discovering unexpected connections between seemingly unrelated ideas and transforming them into architectural concepts.

Our design approach is defined by “Split & Gather.” We break apart conventional architectural forms and reconnect them to create new spatial possibilities. Rather than following a fixed visual style, we focus on experimentation, fragmentation, and the integration of architecture with nature. Our goal is to create architecture that goes beyond buildings.

I live and work in Shanghai, China. Chinese cultural heritage, particularly the relationship between architecture and nature in traditional gardens, has influenced my thinking. Living in China also offers exciting opportunities to explore architecture at different scales, although rapid development can sometimes create challenges for experimental design.

We approach every project as a creative collaboration. We work closely with our clients to understand their needs while exploring unexpected design possibilities. We believe the best results come from balancing practical requirements with bold architectural ideas.

I believe companies should look beyond a designer's portfolio and understand their way of thinking. A good designer should not only solve problems but also bring unexpected ideas and new perspectives. Mutual trust and creative freedom are essential for successful collaboration.

We usually begin with a simple idea or architectural prototype. Through our “Split & Gather” approach, we experiment with breaking, transforming, and reconnecting forms to discover new spatial possibilities. Physical models and digital experiments play an important role in this process.

My favorite design objects include a well-designed reading lamp, a comfortable chair, a collection of architecture books, a handmade ceramic vase, and a small sculptural object. I appreciate objects that balance simplicity, functionality, and personality.

My day usually begins with coffee and reading. Most of my time is spent sketching, developing architectural concepts, experimenting with models, and discussing ideas with our team. In the evening, I enjoy reading, exploring new ideas, or simply taking a walk.

Stay curious, question conventions, and don't be afraid to experiment. Develop your own way of thinking rather than following trends. Most importantly, enjoy the process of discovery — sometimes the most interesting ideas come from unexpected mistakes.

The greatest joy is being able to turn imagination into reality and continuously explore new possibilities. The challenge is balancing creative ambition with practical constraints, especially in architecture, where ideas often take years to become reality.

Never take conventional boundaries for granted. Break them, question them, and reconnect things in unexpected ways. Design is about discovering possibilities that didn't seem to exist before.

Curiosity, creativity, critical thinking, and the ability to communicate ideas. Technical skills are important, but I believe the most valuable ability is to see possibilities where others see limitations.

Our toolbox includes Rhino, Grasshopper, digital visualization tools, physical models, and hand sketches. We enjoy moving between digital and physical experimentation, using different tools to explore architectural forms and spatial relationships.

I try to focus on the most important design questions first. Establishing a strong concept early helps guide later decisions and makes the process more efficient. I also believe in allowing some freedom for experimentation, as creativity doesn't always follow a strict schedule.

It depends on the scale and complexity of the project. A small design object might take a few weeks, while an architectural project can take several years. For me, the most important part is not how long it takes, but how the original idea evolves throughout the process.

People often ask me, “Where do your unusual architectural forms come from?” My answer is that they are not simply about creating interesting shapes, but about exploring new relationships between people, space, and nature.

Working at internationally renowned firms such as BIG, Steven Holl Architects, Diller Scofidio + Renfro, and UNStudio has been incredibly valuable. These experiences taught me different ways of thinking about architecture and gave me the confidence to develop my own design philosophy.

Our clients include property developers, cultural organizations, and institutions seeking innovative architectural solutions. We enjoy collaborating with clients who are open to experimentation and new ideas.

I particularly enjoy experimental architecture and public spaces, where we can challenge conventional typologies and explore unexpected spatial experiences. I love projects that encourage curiosity, interaction, and a closer relationship with nature.

We hope to continue developing 00GROUP's “Split & Gather” philosophy through architecture, installations, and experimental design. Our goal is to bring our ideas to a broader international audience and explore new possibilities beyond conventional architecture.

Design is a collaborative process at 00GROUP. I work closely with my co-founder, Gang, and our team. We exchange ideas, challenge each other's thinking, and develop concepts together through continuous experimentation.

We are currently working on The Cosmic Creek, a large-scale mixed-use commercial and public space project in Chengdu, China. The project explores how architecture can merge with landscape and nature, creating a new kind of urban experience through our “Split & Gather” design approach.

People can reach us through our official website and social media platforms. We are always open to creative collaborations, new projects, and conversations about architecture and design.

At 00GROUP, we believe architecture should not be limited to buildings. Through our “Split & Gather” philosophy, we hope to challenge conventional boundaries and create new connections between people, nature, and space. We believe the future of architecture lies in continuously questioning what architecture can be.

The L-shaped water channel serves as the project's primary spatial organizer rather than merely a landscape feature. Inspired by Chengdu's long-standing relationship with water systems, the channel weaves through the site and connects different commercial zones, public plazas, and green spaces into a continuous experiential sequence.Physically, it guides circulation and establishes visual orientation across the development. Socially, it creates gathering points, resting areas, and opportunities for spontaneous interaction. Instead of treating commerce and public space as separate entities, the water channel allows them to coexist within a shared ecological and social framework.

The Ginkgo Leaf Units emerged from our desire to create an architectural language rooted in nature while addressing practical urban needs. The ginkgo tree is deeply associated with Chengdu and carries strong cultural resonance.These units function simultaneously as shading devices, spatial markers, landscape elements, and environmental infrastructure. Through parametric studies and digital fabrication methods, we refined their geometry to maximize performance while maintaining a coherent visual identity. Their form creates a recognizable spatial experience that links architecture, landscape, and ecological systems into a unified whole.

The site's complex topography required a highly coordinated digital design process. Through parametric design and digital coordination, we continuously evaluated the relationships between terrain, circulation, public space, and commercial functions.This approach allowed us to precisely control elevations, accessibility, and storefront visibility across the site, transforming topographical complexity into a layered and engaging spatial experience while maintaining the efficiency and usability of the commercial environment.

The geometric ring was conceived as a contemporary interpretation of the traditional urban gathering space. Rather than functioning solely as an iconic object, it acts as a spatial device that frames views, creates identity, and organizes public activities.The ring establishes a visual anchor within the development while encouraging movement between different levels and destinations. It symbolizes connection—between architecture and landscape, commerce and culture, visitors and the city—and helps redefine the commercial center as an urban public realm rather than a purely retail environment.

The project integrates a diverse range of planting environments, public green spaces, water landscapes, and shaded gathering areas to establish a layered ecological framework throughout the site. These elements work together to improve environmental quality, enrich biodiversity, and create more comfortable public spaces.For us, sustainability is not only about performance metrics; it is also about fostering meaningful relationships between people, nature, and the urban environment. The ecological network therefore becomes an integral part of both the spatial identity and everyday experience of the project.

Chengdu's cultural identity is inseparable from water. From the Dujiangyan irrigation system to the city's historic waterways, water has long shaped both urban development and daily life.Our design draws inspiration from these traditions by using water as an organizing principle rather than a decorative feature. The project's flowing spatial sequences, interconnected public spaces, and ecological strategies all reflect the idea that water can structure human activities while fostering harmony between the built and natural environment.

Maintaining human scale across a 100,000-square-meter development was one of the project's central challenges. Instead of creating a singular monumental complex, we divided the program into a series of interconnected neighborhoods, courtyards, terraces, and public rooms.This strategy allows visitors to experience the project at multiple scales. Large urban gestures establish identity and connectivity, while smaller spaces encourage exploration, social interaction, and a sense of intimacy. We believe successful public environments must feel both memorable and approachable.

The cascading waterfalls are designed to engage visitors through multiple senses. Beyond their visual presence, they introduce movement, sound, humidity, and changing reflections that enrich the environment throughout the day and across seasons.These elements help transform the commercial district into a destination rather than simply a place for consumption. By encouraging people to linger, gather, and explore, the waterfalls contribute to longer visitor engagement and support a more vibrant public life.

We hope Cosmic Creek demonstrates that future commercial developments can function as ecological infrastructure and civic space simultaneously. Urban projects should no longer prioritize commercial efficiency alone; they should also contribute to environmental resilience, public well-being, and cultural identity.As cities continue to densify, we believe integrated systems of landscape, water, architecture, and public life will become increasingly important. Cosmic Creek represents one possible model for this future.

The terraced organization was informed by both the site's natural topography and our ambition to create a three-dimensional public realm. Rather than concentrating activity on a single ground plane, we distributed social spaces across multiple elevations.Circulation routes were designed as experiential journeys that continuously reveal new views, landscapes, and destinations. By layering movement and public activities vertically, the project encourages exploration and creates opportunities for interaction between different user groups throughout the development.