An Interview With Architect Yang Fei Of Field Object Lab - The Jury of Tree House 2024 Architecture Competition

YF- Some of my favorite projects are adaptive reuse projects that breathe new life into existing structures while addressing contemporary social needs. One notable project is Symbiosis, which recontextualizes Kenzo Tange’s Kagawa Prefecture Gymnasium to address Japan’s aging society. The most exciting part was transforming the brutalist structure into an intergenerational living space. Adding a ring-shaped senior housing and integrating a senior center and daycare within the gymnasium fostered socialization and improved mental health for both the elderly and children. The terraced playground and translucent canopy created inviting spaces, balancing the original aesthetics with modern community needs.

Another favorite is A Field of the Ordinary at the Muséum national d’Histoire naturelle in Paris. The project’s unique appeal was in challenging traditional perceptions of "Exoticism" by introducing a "field" of native French trees amidst exotic collections. This created a contemplative and healing experience, mirroring the recovery from historical colonial impacts. Seeing visitors engage with the space in unexpected ways and fostering a deeper connection to the site's history was incredibly rewarding.

These projects showcase how adaptive reuse can preserve historical value while addressing contemporary challenges, creating spaces that deeply resonate with their communities.

YF- One of my most challenging projects was Maison Sedimentation in Montreal. This renovation of a historic townhouse involved overcoming several significant obstacles.

The topography of the sloping plot required careful design to ensure structural stability and accessibility while preserving the building’s historical integrity. Montreal's extreme weather conditions also posed challenges, necessitating advanced insulation and climate control solutions for year-round comfort and energy efficiency.

The structure itself needed reinforcement to meet modern safety standards without compromising its historical character. Working within these constraints while respecting the building’s heritage was a delicate balance.

YF- My advice to young architects is to embrace and leverage the power of technology, for example AIGC. I believe AI has immense potential for design exploration, allowing quick experimentation and refinement of ideas. However, it's essential to bind this technology with your unique design sensibilities. Use it as an ally to enhance your vision and streamline processes, not as a replacement for your creativity.

YF- For Tree House 2024, I expect proposals that emphasize the profound relationship between people and nature, creating spaces that are both inspiring and refreshing. I would love to see designs that integrate seamlessly with the natural environment, promoting sustainability while capturing a sense of freedom and adventure. The spatial experience could be immersive, blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors to nurture and heal occupants. The goal is to craft sanctuaries that inspire wonder, rejuvenate the mind, body, and soul, and provide a harmonious blend of functionality and beauty.

YF- Often, structural elements are overlooked in favor of aesthetics, but it’s crucial to create a design that is both functional and harmonious with its natural surroundings. The key challenge I found is developing a structure that is lightweight, seamlessly integrated into the environment, and preserves the health and integrity of the woods. This requires innovative thinking and careful selection of materials and construction techniques.

YF- My approach would incorporate modular and kinetic elements, allowing the structure to adapt to various needs and functions, whether as a retreat, workspace, or social hub. The design would prioritize natural light, sustainable materials, and thoughtful spatial layouts to promote well-being and a deep connection to the environment.