We were lucky to catch up with Xudong Zhu recently and have shared our conversation below.
Xudong, so excited to have you with us today. So much we can chat about, but one of the questions we are most interested in is how you have managed to keep your creativity alive.
Creativity, to me, thrives at the intersection of diverse experiences, multidisciplinary thinking, and constant engagement with the world around me. My journey in architecture and urban design has been shaped by a commitment to exploring new ideas and adapting to diverse scales, contexts, and cultures.
My academic and professional background spans architecture, urban design, and planning, enabling me to view challenges from multiple perspectives. This multidisciplinary foundation was built during my studies at Tongji University in Shanghai, Politecnico di Milano, and Harvard GSD. At each institution, I engaged with unique approaches to design: the technical rigor of Shanghai, the artistic sensibility of Milan, and the critical thinking culture of Boston. These experiences taught me that creativity lies in bridging different fields—combining technical precision with bold artistic vision, and balancing ecological sustainability with urban functionality.
Working and living in cities like Shanghai, Amsterdam, Milan, and Boston has further enriched my perspective. Each city exposed me to distinct urban textures, cultural nuances, and architectural traditions. For instance, in Amsterdam, I learned the importance of contextual design while working on large-scale urban projects at UNStudio. In Shanghai, I explored rapid urban transformations and how design can adapt to such dynamics. Milan’s deep respect for historical continuity taught me to balance heritage with innovation, and Boston offered a platform for academic research and collaborative design processes.
Creativity also thrives in variety. Over the years, I’ve worked on projects ranging from campus master plans, such as the University of Rhode Island, to cultural infrastructure like the Longwang Mountain project in Anji. These endeavors span scales and contexts—from rethinking public spaces in dense urban areas to designing ecological hubs in rural settings. Each project presents a new set of constraints, opportunities, and narratives. Transitioning between scales—from detailed architectural elements to regional planning—keeps my thinking flexible and my ideas fresh.
Ultimately, I see creativity as a process of synthesis: merging experiences, learning from challenges, and constantly reimagining the possibilities of design. Through collaboration, exploration, and an openness to learning, I ensure that my creativity remains dynamic and resilient, no matter the context.
Thanks for sharing that. So, before we get any further into our conversation, can you tell our readers a bit about yourself and what you’re working on?
At T.E.N Studio, where I serve as Co-founder and Design Leader, we are passionate about redefining spaces and pushing the boundaries of design. Founded in 2022 in Shanghai and Hangzhou, T.E.N combines multidisciplinary expertise with a bold vision to create innovative and impactful projects. Our philosophy, rooted in Technology, Economy, and Nature, drives us to explore new typologies that bridge the real and virtual worlds.
One of our standout projects, Urban Irrigation, exemplifies this vision. By reimagining an abandoned industrial water tower in Tangshan, we transformed a neglected space into a concept for a vibrant public realm that celebrates both historical legacy and modern functionality. This project, recognized with international awards, highlights our ability to merge sustainability, storytelling, and innovation.
At T.E.N, we continue to focus on rural revitalization, urban renewal, and public spaces, using cutting-edge technology and sustainable practices. As we grow, our commitment remains steadfast: to design spaces that enhance lives and harmonize with the natural world. We’re excited to keep shaping meaningful, future-forward environments for all.
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: adaptability, collaboration, and a commitment to lifelong learning.
Adaptability: Studying and working across Shanghai, Milan, Amsterdam, and Boston exposed me to diverse cultural and professional contexts. Learning to navigate different design philosophies and practices was essential in broadening my perspective.
Collaboration: Design is rarely an individual endeavor. Working with multidisciplinary teams at T.E.N Studio and global firms like UNStudio and Sasaki taught me the value of collective creativity. Engaging with diverse expertise elevates the quality of any project.
Lifelong Learning: Staying curious and open to new tools, trends, and knowledge has been critical. From mastering parametric design tools to exploring ecological sustainability, continuous growth keeps creativity alive.
For those early in their journey, my advice is to embrace challenges as opportunities, seek diverse experiences, and never stop learning. Building strong relationships and finding mentors can also accelerate your growth, offering invaluable guidance along the way.
How would you describe your ideal client?
Our ideal client is someone who values collaboration, innovation, and sustainability. At T.E.N Studio, we thrive when working with clients who are open to exploring bold ideas and reimagining the possibilities of design. An ideal client appreciates the integration of technology, economy, and nature in shaping spaces that are not only functional but also forward-thinking and environmentally conscious.
We particularly connect with clients who have a strong vision yet remain flexible and receptive to new perspectives. Whether it’s a rural revitalization initiative, an urban renewal project, or a transformative public space, we seek partners who share our passion for creating meaningful, context-sensitive designs that leave a lasting impact.
Ultimately, an ideal client is one who sees design as a collaborative journey—someone who is as invested in the process as they are in the outcome, and who values innovation as a pathway to shaping a better built environment.
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.tenstudio.net/
- Instagram: zhu_xudong_
- Linkedin: Xudong Zhu
Image Credits
Xudong Zhu
so if you or someone you know deserves recognition please let us know here.
