Chinese architect Zhu Pei has shared his philosophical approach to architecture in a comprehensive interview with Louisiana Channel, emphasizing that great architecture transcends functional problem-solving to become a form of artistic expression akin to poetry. Born in Beijing in 1962, Zhu Pei studied at Tsinghua University and UC Berkeley before founding Studio Zhu Pei in 2005, establishing himself as a leading voice in contemporary Chinese architecture.
In the interview, Zhu Pei articulates his belief that architecture should rely on openness, imagination, and the creation of new experiences. He argues that exceptional architecture generates a sense of wonder through its ability to "invent" and "create some new thing, new experience," positioning architectural practice as cultural and sensory exploration rather than purely technical production. This philosophy has guided his studio's experimental work and research, which focuses on contemporary architecture, art, and cultural projects.
Central to Zhu Pei's approach is what he calls the "Architecture of Nature," a philosophy that embraces the poetics of construction culture while responding to challenges of global climate change and the disruption of regional traditions. He emphasizes the importance of reading landscapes, local building traditions, and everyday patterns of living as sources of knowledge that reveal "something behind the thing more cultural," including climatic and geographical intelligence embedded in vernacular construction.
The architect stresses the significance of understanding what he terms the "present nature of the past," insisting that contemporary architecture cannot be meaningful or sustainable without learning from historical continuity. "My philosophy really wants people to understand, so building architecture should not only be looking to the future, looking to the technology future, but actually in the tradition, knowing they have the contemporary things behind," Zhu Pei explained. He believes that once architects make this connection between past and present, buildings become both intelligent and connected to local people and life.
Zhu Pei also offers criticism of current architectural production trends, arguing that contemporary practices often prioritize generic simplicity paired with unnecessary construction complexity, resulting in waste and a loss of cultural specificity. He advocates for architecture that maintains a dialogue with nature rather than isolating itself, integrating technology only when it reinforces ecological and cultural continuity. For him, true architectural richness emerges from simple means thoughtfully deployed.
This principle is demonstrated in his projects, which appear complex but rely on straightforward construction systems. Using his Kiln museum as an example, Zhu Pei explains: "Actually, the specialty doesn't mean we cost more. No, a lot of great architecture, actually, less effort, but you feel so rich. You feel each curvature, each vault, difference, even the single vaults, they have a different curvature, but I really use just one simple adjustable scaffolding to carry out the whole thing. It feels so complicated in general almost like a piece of art, but it's actually based on a very simple construction system."
Among Studio Zhu Pei's recent notable works are the Zijing International Conference Camp completed in 2022, the Zibo OCT Art Center from 2020, and the CUBE Art Museum at 798, also completed in 2020. These projects exemplify his philosophy of creating architecturally rich experiences through simple, thoughtful construction methods. The Yangliping Performing Arts Center, Shou County Culture and Art Center, and Minsheng Contemporary Art Museum further demonstrate his commitment to integrating cultural context with innovative design.
The Louisiana Channel interview is part of a broader series featuring prominent architects discussing their philosophies and approaches. Other recent interviews include Japanese architect Riken Yamamoto on the social role of architecture and the importance of creating spaces that foster meaningful relationships, and North American architect Jenny E. Sabin on how connections between digital, physical, and biological realms are creating paradigm shifts in architectural evolution.
Ultimately, Zhu Pei frames the future of architecture as a synthesis of tradition, environmental understanding, and technological tools, creating forms that are both locally grounded and artistically compelling. His vision calls for architecture that serves not just functional needs but also cultural and sensory ones, establishing buildings as bridges between past wisdom and future innovation.
