Jon Stojan
Zijian Wan
Zijian Wan, a young and innovative architect, has been making his mark in the field of architectural design since 2019. From winning international competitions to exploring new building materials, his career highlights an unwavering pursuit of revolutionizing architectural design. Zijian’s story is not just a fusion of technology and creativity, but an endless exploration of the possibilities of future architecture.
At the University of Liverpool’s School of Architecture, Zijian began his architectural exploration journey. There, he learned not only the fundamentals of architecture but, more importantly, began cultivating a passion for innovative design. The same year, Zijian participated in the highly acclaimed evolo 2019 skyscraper competition and, along with his team, won third place. In this competition, they proposed a unique bio-building concept, employing a novel biomimetic membrane structure. This design demonstrated a profound understanding of architectural functionality and aesthetics. More importantly, it marked the beginning of Zijian’s exploration into the application of new technologies and materials in architectural design. The bio-building’s design, with its eco-friendliness and adaptability to future urban ecosystems, showcased his immense potential in architectural innovation.
The concept of a biomimetic inner skin
Creature Ark Biosphere Skyscraper
Continuing his pursuit of academic and practical advancement, Zijian joined University College London (UCL) in 2021 to pursue a Master’s degree in Design For Manufacture. During this period, his research focus shifted to material innovation and ecological architecture.
At UCL, Zijian collaborated with Dana, a fellow student from the Bio lab, to research the application of mycelium materials (Mycelium Brick) in construction and architectural acoustics. The Mycelium Acoustic Brick they developed not only has excellent sound absorption qualities but also possesses a micro-porous structure, making it an outstanding acoustic material. Unlike traditional chemically manufactured sound-absorbing materials that often release toxic substances when burned, this acoustic brick is entirely different. Made from all-organic materials such as straw, wheat bran, and fungi, it offers excellent fire resistance and is completely eco-friendly, showcasing an environmentally friendly innovation concept.
A Mycelium culture dish, made with grain in a 3D printed ceramic
The acoustic mycelium brick made by zijian
In addition to achievements in mycelium material research, Zijian’s other significant breakthrough in the field of architectural acoustics is the development of sound-absorbing ceramics. Utilizing the principle of Helmholtz resonators, his design aims to effectively absorb specific sound frequencies by altering the cross-sectional dimensions during ceramic extrusion. This prototype design not only demonstrates technical innovation but is also significant in addressing specific environmental noise pollution in urban spaces, such as reducing noise from trains and airplanes. This innovation proves Zijian’s expertise in applying physical acoustics principles in architectural design and showcases his innovative thinking as a young architect in solving real-world architectural environment issues.
The assembled prototype of the Acoustic Vineyard, fabricated with programming controllable ceramic extrusion system
Functional Diagram of Acoustic Vineyard, shows how the structure could reduce the specific frequency of sound
Rendering Image of the concept of Acoustic Vineyard
After graduating from UCL, Zijian returned to China, applying his overseas learning and research experience to domestic architectural projects. His latest design project demonstrates a profound understanding of the integration of traditional and modern techniques. He cleverly used 3D scanning technology to conduct detailed mapping of an old factory building. This advanced technology not only allowed him to capture every detail of the architecture but also helped him avoid damaging the original fragile structure during the design process. Subsequently, he ingeniously utilized traditional fabric installations to inject new life into the space while preserving historical traces, forming a spatial design strategy that respects history and showcases modern aesthetics.
3D Scanned digital model of the project site (the old factory), shows to analysis the original structure of the spaces
The main space of this project
The bar area of this project
Reflecting on Zijian Wan’s design career, it is clear to see his enthusiasm for new materials and emerging technologies and his sustained focus. From showcasing innovative ideas in international competitions to exploring the possibilities of mycelium materials and acoustic ceramics, and breakthroughs in domestic application, his attempts in sustainable design and research in the architectural environment not only demonstrate a deep understanding of the traditional values of architecture but also express a positive response to modern design challenges. Zijian’s thoughts on how to use innovative technologies and materials to improve and optimize architectural spaces undoubtedly show his unique vision and innovative spirit in the fields of architectural and interior design.
In the future, we can look forward to how Zijian will further apply his innovative concepts to a broader range of architectural projects. With his in-depth research on new materials and continuous exploration of architectural technologies, Zijian is poised to become a significant force in driving progress and transformation in the architectural industry. It is easy to foresee that this talented young architectural designer will bring us more astonishing and anticipated works in his future growth. His continuous exploration of new materials and in-depth research into the architectural environment suggest that he will continue to shine in the fields of architectural and interior design, leading the industry to new heights.
The open grilling kitchen of a restaurant, one of latest work design by zijian
Main space of a restaurant, one of latest work design by zijian