First Place Winner
Healing Bubblescape
Design by
Xuefeng Li
Simple material and form with bold cut of openings to invite light to become the main player in the space. The exterior rendering is very interesting. The light has different roles in this architecture.
-Yimeng Teng
Xuefeng Li
I am a passionate architect with years of professional experience. Graduating from the University of Pennsylvania with a Master's in Architecture, I have had the privilege of practicing my craft and honing my skills in the field.
Celebrating Creativity & Vision
Winner’s Spotlight: An Exclusive Interview
Discover the story behind the victory — from concept to creation.
Design Overview:
● Could you provide a brief description of your winning design? What were the key elements and concepts you incorporated? How did you prioritize and integrate sunlight into your design to create a transformative architectural space?
I firmly believe that architecture possesses the remarkable ability to positively impact our world, particularly in its capacity to provide intangible healing experiences. Currently, there are over 75,000,000 individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD) worldwide, as reported by the CDC. Shockingly, 1 in every 100 children is diagnosed with this condition. Unfortunately, their needs are often overlooked, and it becomes crucial for us to raise awareness and extend our support to them. In response to this pressing issue, I have designed a small single-family house in upstate New York specifically tailored to accommodate a family with a child who has ASD. The primary objective of this design is to utilize sunlight as a transformative and therapeutic element.
The inspiration behind the design stems from the joyful and enchanting experience of blowing bubbles, which encapsulates the essence of wonder and delight in childhood. Incorporating this concept, the design features curved voids reminiscent of the shape of bubbles. These voids serve as light-capturing elements, allowing sunlight to penetrate the interior spaces and casting unique and captivating shadows.
By harnessing the power of sunlight, the design creates an environment that not only stimulates the senses but also provides a serene and calming atmosphere for individuals with ASD. The interplay of light and shadow throughout the house creates a dynamic and visually engaging experience, fostering a sense of tranquility and promoting emotional well-being.
Importance of Sunlight:
● How do you perceive the importance of sunlight in architectural design? What benefits does it bring to occupants and the overall atmosphere of a space? Did you encounter any challenges in maximizing the utilization of sunlight in your design, and how did you address them?
Louis Kahn beautifully captured the essence of sunlight in architecture with his quote, "I sense Light as the giver of all presences, and material as spent Light. What is made by Light casts a shadow, and the shadow belongs to Light." I firmly believe that sunlight breathes life into architectural spaces. It has the ability to create moments, evoke joy, excitement, and unexpectedness as it dynamically moves and interacts with the built environment. Understanding sunlight and harnessing its potential as a design element can be challenging. It requires a deep understanding of how sunlight impacts people's activities and experiences within a space. To address this, I took the initiative to visit a local ASD center and conducted interviews with workers there. This allowed me to gain valuable insights into the specific needs and sensitivities of individuals with Autism Spectrum Disorder (ASD). By incorporating this knowledge, I was able to design spaces that not only optimize sunlight but also create a nurturing and inclusive environment for all occupants.
User Experience:
● How did you prioritize the well-being and comfort of the occupants in your design through the effective use of sunlight? Can you describe any specific spatial or experiential qualities created by the presence of natural light in your design?
Large windows flood the interior spaces with natural light, providing the child with ample sunlight exposure. Sunlight exposure has been shown to have a positive impact on children with ASD, improving mood, behaviour, and cognitive function. The natural light and shadow created by the unique shapes of the interior spaces is undefinable and constantly changing, adding a layer of interest and excitement to the environment for the child.
The design features a special game room that serves as a space for the child to engage in therapeutic activities. Research has shown that sensory-rich experiences can benefit children with ASD. The openings on the wall with stained glass can turn sunlight into interesting reflections and sensory colors throughout the day, creating an engaging and stimulating environment.
The design includes several other features to create a healing and inspiring environment for the child. For example, the materials used throughout the interior are selected for their calming and soothing properties, and the color palette is carefully chosen to create a sense of serenity and tranquility. The layout of the spaces provides clear circulation paths and areas designated for specific functions, such as relaxation, play, and therapy.
Inspiration and Research:
● Were there any architectural precedents or research studies that influenced your design process?
One particular architectural masterpiece that left a lasting impression on me was Ronchamp by Le Corbusier. I had the opportunity to visit this iconic structure, and its impact on my design thinking was profound.
The unique qualities of Ronchamp resonated deeply with me. The sculptural form of the building, the strategic placement of punctuations, the deliberate use of small openings, and the thoughtful application of painted colors on the interior walls all contributed to its remarkable presence. Witnessing these design elements firsthand sparked my imagination and fueled my creativity.
Future of Sunlight in Architecture:
● Based on your experience and insights, how do you envision the role of sunlight in architecture evolving in the future?
Indeed, sunlight will always remain a fundamental element in architecture as long as we have the sun. It is crucial for modern architects to embrace and cherish the natural gift of sunlight. In the midst of technological advancements and evolving design trends, it is essential to maintain a deep appreciation for the inherent benefits and beauty that sunlight brings to architectural spaces.
Personal Reflection:
● How has participating in this competition and winning affected your perspective on the importance of sunlight in architectural design?
It has affirmed that sunlight is not merely an aesthetic consideration but a vital element that significantly influences the overall experience and functionality of a space.
Through the process of conceptualizing and implementing my design, I delved deeper into understanding the profound impact of sunlight on human well-being, visual comfort, and energy efficiency. The competition allowed me to explore innovative strategies for maximizing the utilization of sunlight as a design device, while also considering the specific needs and sensitivities of the occupants.
Advice for Aspiring Architects:
● What advice would you give to aspiring architects or designers who are interested in exploring the integration of sunlight in their designs? Based on your experience, what are the key elements that make a design stand out in a competition of this nature?
For aspiring architects and designers interested in integrating sunlight into their designs, my advice is to cultivate an observant mindset, understand the societal context, embrace problem-solving, and learn from daily life. By paying attention to the interplay of light and shadow, considering the specific needs of the community, finding innovative solutions, and drawing inspiration from the smallest details, they can create designs that harness the transformative power of sunlight.
In a competition, a design stands out by clearly articulating its conceptual framework, showcasing innovation and creativity, paying attention to detail, emphasizing sustainability, and effectively communicating the design intent. By demonstrating a deep understanding of how sunlight enhances the spatial experience, pushing boundaries, considering technical aspects, prioritizing sustainability, and effectively presenting the design, they can make a lasting impression on the judges and viewers.
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