We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Jiafeng Li a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.
Jiafeng, we’re thrilled to have you sharing your thoughts and lessons with our community. So, for folks who are at a stage in their life or career where they are trying to be more resilient, can you share where you get your resilience from?
My resilience comes from the very nature of architecture itself—it is a discipline that constantly tests patience, problem-solving, and adaptability. Every project is a long journey, often spanning years, with each stage bringing new and unforeseen challenges. As architects, we are continuously confronted with design complexities, construction constraints, and site-specific issues that demand both technical expertise and a constructive mindset to resolve.
Beyond design, architecture is also shaped by external forces—geographical conditions, political influences, budget limitations—all of which require us to navigate uncertainty and find the best possible solutions within given constraints. The ability to embrace these challenges, rather than be discouraged by them, is where my resilience lies.
At the core of this endurance is my passion for design. The belief that architecture has the power to shape human experiences, foster connections, and respond to societal needs keeps me motivated. No matter how difficult the process, the opportunity to create meaningful spaces that resonate with people makes every challenge worth overcoming.
Appreciate the insights and wisdom. Before we dig deeper and ask you about the skills that matter and more, maybe you can tell our readers about yourself?
I am an architect with a strong focus on designing spaces that foster human connection, cultural dialogue, and social impact. My journey in architecture has been shaped by my academic background at Columbia University and the China Academy of Art, where I developed a deep understanding of both Western and Eastern design philosophies. Studying and working under Pritzker Prize-winning architects Wang Shu and Arata Isozaki further influenced my critical approach to architecture, emphasizing the importance of place, history, and human experience in design.
What excites me most about architecture is its ability to shape experiences and leave a lasting imprint on both individuals and communities. My work spans cultural institutions, public spaces, and humanitarian projects, all driven by the belief that architecture is more than just a physical structure—it is a medium for storytelling and social engagement. One of my most significant projects was the renovation of The Met Cloisters, where I challenged the conventional role of museums by integrating artist residencies and community engagement programs. This project reinterpreted the historical space in a way that fosters inclusivity and contemporary relevance, earning recognition such as the 2024 MUSE Design Award (Silver Winner) and an Honorable Mention in the 2024 Architecture MasterPrize.
Beyond cultural projects, I am also deeply invested in socially driven architecture. One of the most meaningful experiences in my career was designing a maternity center in Senegal as part of the KAIRA LOORO competition, where my project was selected as a finalist. This initiative addressed the urgent need for safer birthing conditions in remote areas, using sustainable materials and local construction techniques to create an accessible and culturally integrated healthcare space. Earlier in my career, I also led the design of an interactive installation for visually impaired children at a school in Zhejiang, China, which won the 2016 VELUX International Architecture Award (Global Champion) and was presented at the World Architecture Festival in Berlin.
Looking ahead, I am eager to further explore how architecture can bridge the gap between design and social responsibility. Whether through experimental museum spaces, public installations, or humanitarian projects, I aim to continue pushing the boundaries of what architecture can achieve—not just as a form of artistic expression but as a catalyst for meaningful change.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
Looking back, three key qualities have been most impactful in my journey as an architect designer: resilience, critical thinking, and interdisciplinary curiosity.
1. Resilience: Embracing Challenges as Part of the Process
Architecture is a long and iterative journey. From concept development to construction, every project presents unexpected obstacles—whether it’s navigating site constraints, budget limitations, or balancing the needs of multiple stakeholders. The ability to persist through these challenges with a positive mindset is essential. For those early in their journey, I’d advise embracing setbacks as learning opportunities. Every challenge forces you to refine your approach and strengthens your ability to adapt. Cultivating resilience means staying open-minded, solution-oriented, and patient with the process.
2. Critical Thinking: Questioning Norms and Redefining Spaces
Great architecture is not just about aesthetics—it’s about purpose, context, and impact. One of the most valuable skills I developed, especially during my studies at Columbia University and the China Academy of Art, was the ability to question existing frameworks and think beyond conventional design approaches. I encourage young studnets to always ask “why” before defining “what” and “how.” Why should a museum only be a place for exhibitions? Why should a hospital feel sterile and intimidating? By challenging assumptions, you can create more meaningful and responsive designs. To develop this skill, engage with architecture beyond its physical form—study philosophy, sociology, and art history to build a broader critical perspective.
3. Interdisciplinary Curiosity: Expanding Beyond Architecture
Architecture does not exist in isolation; it intersects with many fields—technology, anthropology, sustainability, and even politics. Some of my most impactful projects, like designing a maternity center in Senegal or a museum renovation at The Met Cloisters, required me to understand not just architecture but also healthcare infrastructure, historical narratives, and community needs. I encourage architecture students to step outside the discipline—attend lectures on urban planning, explore material science, collaborate with artists, or work on social impact projects. The more you understand the world beyond architecture, the more innovative and grounded your designs will become.
Final Advice
For those starting their journey, my biggest advice is to stay curious and embrace discomfort. Architecture is demanding, but it is also one of the most rewarding fields because it allows you to shape the world around you. Don’t rush to find “your style” too early—explore different perspectives, challenge
We’ve all got limited resources, time, energy, focus etc – so if you had to choose between going all in on your strengths or working on areas where you aren’t as strong, what would you choose?
I believe it’s important to leverage your strengths while also being open to collaboration with specialists in other fields. Architecture is a highly interdisciplinary practice, with areas like landscape design, structural engineering, and interior design all contributing to a successful project. By focusing on your core expertise, you can become exceptional in that area, but understanding other disciplines is equally valuable. A balance of deep expertise and cross-disciplinary collaboration leads to the most impactful outcomes in architecture.
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Image Credits
The renovation of The Met Cloisters, Interior Render, copyright Jiafeng Li
The renovation of The Met Cloisters, Interior Render, copyright Jiafeng Li
Maternity Centre Design, Exterior Render, copyright Jiafeng Li, Xuanyu Wei
Maternity Centre Design, Exterior Render, copyright Jiafeng Li, Xuanyu Wei
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