William Hailiang Chen
Great Britain
William Hailiang Chen has transferred himself from an artist to a professional qualified architect, graduated from the Architectural Association School with awarded Alvin Boyarsky Scholarship and Nicholas Boas Travel Award. He went on working for UK famous practices such as Wilkinson Eyre Architect, Populous and Foster and Partners on several prestigious projects, including winning the competition of 440m tower of Guangzhou International Finance Centre, the design of London Olympic 2012 Stadium from inception to completion and Apple Campus 2. Despite the success in UK, as Principal Architect he took on the challenge back to China leading the team on managing Wanda Group’s overseas projects including Wanda One Nine Elmes, Wanda Sydney One, Paris Europacity and Wanda Vista Tower project in Chicago. Alongside the big projects, as founder of Creative Prototyping Unit he is leading a research team on digital fabrication of various small experimental projects. William teaches part time at the Southeast University in Nanjing and is setting up an urban regeneration research program in relation to sports sector. Access William Hailiang Chen Newsroom
Featured Designs
William Hailiang Chen
Karaoke Entertainment Venue
The karaoke club design draws inspiration from the ancient Chinese philosophy of Wu Xing, or the five elements, symbolizing fundamental phases in the universe's perpetual evolution: Fire, Water, Wood, Metal and Earth. This philosophical foundation informs the conceptual design, weaving the essence of each element into distinct themes reflecting the interconnection of nature and humanity. Situated in central London, the venue serves as a sanctuary, each meticulously crafted room encapsulates the essence of one element, providing a unique, immersive experience resonating with Chinese wisdom.
A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award - Bronze (2024) - Access William Hailiang Chen Karaoke Entertainment Venue Press Kit
William Hailiang Chen
Fireplace for Dong Ethnicity
As the first commission project of Huotang series for the Dong ethnicity in Guangnan county, Guangxi of China, Moonlight Huotang is particularly for the group of villagers who carry on the Pipa music culture. The unique convex shape of the ceiling enhances the sense of gathering in response to a better acoustic environment while the entry chamber provides a multifunction space as a changing room, food preparation room and confession room. It is part of a culture-led rural regeneration which intends to revive the economy of a county whose young generations have moved to larger urban areas.
A' Cultural Heritage and Culture Industry Design Award - Bronze (2021) - Access William Hailiang Chen Fireplace for Dong Ethnicity Press Kit