Archinect
Yuhang Tao

Yuhang Tao

Philadelphia, PA, US

 
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About 

I am a new graduate looking for a full-time entry-level architectural designer position. With a Master's degree in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania and a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from The University of Nottingham Ningbo, China, I am eager to bring my blend of academic excellence, practical experience, and a deep passion for creating human-centric and sustainable environments to my new career.

On top of my education, I have completed six architectural internship experiences and during my last two practices at B+H Architects and KGD Architecture, I honed my skills in Revit, Rhino, AutoCAD, and SketchUp, among others, to effectively contribute to projects such as the Shenzhen Natural History Museum and the renovation of “Red Lion” mixed-use residence. These experiences, combined with my proficiency in parametric modeling and enthusiasm for leveraging advanced technologies like robotic arms and AI in design processes, underscore my capability to contribute meaningfully from day one.

My design philosophy is centered around crafting spaces that enhance human experiences while respecting environmental and social contexts. This approach is evident in my contributions to projects like the Dishuihu Restaurant and Qinghu East Road School with Atelier Z+, where I prioritized functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. Additionally, my work has been recognized in competitions (HOK, 24H) and publications (Pressing Matters), highlighting my commitment to excellence and innovation in architecture.

Elsewhere:

Employment 

B+H Architects, Shenzhen, CN, Architectural Intern

Utilized Rhino and custom Grasshopper scripts to adjust models of Shenzhen Natural History Museum, an urban iconic cultural building known for its dynamic and parametric facade. This includes modeling the intricate architectural spirals, the landscaped terraces that followed the building's curvature, and the interiors
that serve multiple functional spaces such as education, cinema and restaurant, ensuring they were feasible and aligned with the client's feedbacks.

Conducted Revit coordination for the Shenzhen Natural History Museum, ensuring that architectural models aligned with MEP systems. This role involved rigorous model checking and clash detection sessions, enhancing project efficiency and reducing on-site errors.

Update ZTE Shenzhen Bay Super Headquarter open floor plan to encourage collaboration and flexibility, aligning with the dynamic work style. Additionally, spearheaded the design of meeting rooms that could serve various functions, from individual workspace to collaborative meeting areas.

May 2023 - Aug 2023
 

KGD Architecture, Wangshangton DC, Architectural Intern

Assisted in the Design Development phase of project "Red Lion", a renovation of a hotel into a mixed-use residence project, using Revit to create 3D models and technical drawings that facilitated client discussions and early design approvals. In addition, develop visual aids, diagrams and Revit models that clearly conveyed
design concepts and progress, enhancing client engagement and feedback.

Collaborated with project architects to update the project's Revit and Sketchup model, integrating feedback from consultants and the design team to refine spatial arrangements and material specifications. My role was also integral in designing the layout of floor plan units, the design of the open deck on the façade and the selection of materials for the “Red Lion”.

May 2022 - Aug 2022
 

Atelier Z+, Shanghai, CN, Architectural Intern

Involved in the Dishuihu Restaurant and Qinghu East Road school projects (have been built), using AutoCAD and Sketchup to create technical 2D drawings and 3D models, effectively enhancing presentations, which results in positive feedback and client satisfaction.

Mainly participated in the whole competition for Temporary Pavilion, preparing site analysis reports that included potential constraints, and feasibility studies to ensure adherence to guidelines.

Mar 2021 - Jun 2021
 

JZFZ Architectural Design Co., Ltd, Hefei, CN, Architectural Intern

Involved in the design of a 20-story multi-family residential high-rise. My role focused on optimizing interior space for functionality and comfort and integrating flexible design elements to accommodate various lifestyle needs by utilizing AutoCAD for precise technical drawings and Rhino for complex surface modeling.

Sep 2020 - Dec 2020
 

Shanghai Xframe Studio, Shanghai, CN, Architectural Intern

Highly Contributed to the winning entry for the Shanghai Printemps commercial center project competition, supporting lead architects with the creation of analysis diagrams, architectural drawings, design sketches, digital modeling and renderings.

May 2019 - Sep 2019
 

Education 

University of Pennsylvania, Philadelphia, PA, US, MArch, Master of Architecture

GPA: 3.75

Aug 2021 - May 2024
 

The University of Nottingham Ningbo China, Ningbo, CN, BArch, Architecture

GPA: 3.65

Sep 2016 - Jul 2020
 

Awards 

3rd place of HOK architecture competition, 3rd Place

HOK’s Philadelphia studio held the sixth edition of its HOK Futures Design Challenge. More than 40 teams entered this year’s competition, representing students from University of Pennsylvania, Drexel University, Jefferson University, Temple University, Penn State, Harcum College and Moore College of Art & Design.

This year’s competition asked students to create design concepts for a proposed winery and incubator space on Venice Island, a former manufacturing and industrial hub located along the Schuylkill River in the Manayunk neighborhood of Philadelphia. Students were challenged to design a concept that celebrates the history of Venice Island and its rebirth as a recreational and residential hub. Designs also needed to account for the occasional flooding of Venice Island during storm events.

“The submissions we received were incredible,” said Caitlin Youngster, an architect in HOK’s Philadelphia studio and one of the competition’s organizers. “In just two weeks, students developed thoughtful and in-depth responses that impressed both our jurors and the entire HOK Philadelphia staff.”

2022
 

29th 24H Architecture Competition, Honorable Mention

What will cities be like in the future?

Ultramodern buildings cut by cars and buses that fly, robots that perform the domestic tasks, water 100% reused.

Will we live like this in 30 years?

Several breakthroughs for a distant future are already being tested in several cities, which function as laboratories of good ideas to replicate. A set of technologies developed by large multinationals has helped cities to become smarter, with efficient and less polluting transportation, green buildings and renewable energy. Half the population of the planet, which has just reached the mark of 7.6 billion people, lives in urban areas. It is estimated that by 2050 about 70% of the population will live in cities, which represents an increase of 1.4 million people per week.

“This growth will cause a huge shift in cities and the expectation of citizens about the quality of services such as health, transportation, education, and emergency management,” said Guruduth Banavar, IBM vice president and chief technology officer for the public sector.

The impact on the environment is already enormous.

The 3.5 billion urban inhabitants consume 75% of available energy and concentrate 80% of greenhouse gas emissions.

Megacities are responsible for much of consumption and pose significant challenges to governments and their inhabitants.

At the same time that they attract business and millionaires, big cities demand attention to climate change, urban mobility and rising levels of social inequality.

Mega-Cities with more than 10 million inhabitants are growing in number.

Sustainable urbanization is the key to successful development.

2019
 

Areas of Specialization 

Skills