Zhengzhou Longhu Conference Center by Fei Hu

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DI: What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?

FH : The phoenix is a mythical bird from ancient Chinese legends, revered as the king of all birds and symbolizing auspiciousness, love, and peace. Zhengzhou, an important birthplace of Chinese civilization, is also where the legend of the phoenix originated. Therefore, the interior design draws inspiration from the theme of the phoenix. The atrium space on the first, second, and third floors is vertically connected, with white curved lines extending up to 16 meters high across the walls, abstractly depicting the graceful flight of the phoenix in a modern style. This design not only aligns with the solemn and dignified nature of a conference center but also creates a pure, modern, and artistically appealing space.

DI: What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?

FH : How to express ancient culture and its positive connotations through modern techniques, especially using modern minimalism to convey Eastern culture, particularly the essence of Zen, is what I particularly aim to achieve.

DI: What are your future plans for this award winning design?

FH : Let's hope it gets built.

DI: How long did it take you to design this particular concept?

FH : about 4-5 months.

DI: Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?

FH : The owner had a vague request and I searched for the most appropriate theme to express it.

DI: What made you design this particular type of work?

FH : I've been trying to find a style that works for me. Looking for inspiration from Eastern culture is something I've been exploring lately.

DI: Where there any other designs and/or designers that helped the influence the design of your work?

FH : Tadao Ando，I am fascinated by the mood and light in his works.

DI: Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?

FH : Hand sketching, 3d modeling software, etc

DI: What is the most unique aspect of your design?

FH : Minimalist elements create rich light and shadow.

DI: Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?

FH : I have a design team of 3-4 people and I work with professionals all the time.

DI: What is the role of technology in this particular design?

FH : Technology is the foundation of implementation, the backbone, the drummer of the band.

DI: Is your design influenced by data or analytical research in any way? What kind of research did you conduct for making this design?

FH : Yes, we studied the proportions of the design, the materials, and the lighting effects at different times of the day.

DI: What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?

FH : The cost and construction process were my biggest challenges.

DI: How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?

FH : I hope to let more people see it, whether or not it ultimately gets built.

DI: What did you learn or how did you improve yourself during the designing of this work?

FH : Stick to the simplest shapes and materials to achieve the most fantastic results.