In this exclusive interview, we sit down with Yu Qiang, the founder and lead designer of YuQiang & Partners. This design studio has been at the forefront of innovative interior design since its founding in 1999. Specializing in interior design for exceptional designers, YuQiang & Partners fosters creativity under the guidance of versatile leaders, blending global perspectives with local expertise. With over 20 years of experience, the studio has grown into a dynamic team of 150 professionals, offering a comprehensive project execution and management system that ensures timely and cost-effective delivery.
YuQiang & Partners’ recent triumph at the LIV Hospitality Design Awards, where they were honored with the “Interior Design of the Year – Living Space” award for the Nanjing Back To Yaxi Manor Resort, highlights their dedication to creating spaces that harmonize with their environment. This award-winning project beautifully embodies their philosophy of ecological sustainability, cultural preservation, and the harmonious integration of nature into design. Join us as Yu Qiang shares the journey behind this remarkable resort, the challenges faced, and what lies ahead for the studio.
Can you tell us a bit about yourself and the story behind YuQiang & Partners?
Founded in 1999, YuQiang & Partners embraces “infinite creativity” as its core value. It aims to be a design platform where outstanding interior architects collaborate, fostering the continuous advancement of design concepts through information exchange and interaction. The firm consistently maintains innovation and vibrancy in design, striving to create designs that contribute to the progress of life. Through a diversified business model and the integration of superior resources, it has established a comprehensive service system across the entire industry chain.
What was the influence behind the The Nanjing Back To Yaxi Manor Resort? Can you walk us through the design process, from the initial conversation to the result?
The design inspiration is most prominently reflected in the name “归来兮” (Gui Lai Xi). These three characters embody a traditional humanistic spirit, originating from Tao Yuanming’s poem “Ah, Homeward Bound I Go!”, a renowned work in ancient Chinese literature. This poem conveys the deep longing of the Chinese people for both worldly engagement and pastoral retreat.
The owner, a successful entrepreneur, envisioned this ideal haven as he approached retirement, driven by a yearning for a tranquil rural life. Thus, The Nanjing Back to Yaxi Manor Resort came into being—not only as the beginning of a new chapter in his life but also as a sanctuary for every traveler in search of peace. This reflects a traditional Chinese philosophy that embraces both engagement with the world and the serenity of retreat.
Did some specific local characteristics of Nanjing influence the design?
Design is both universal and deeply rooted in place. Therefore, before designing a new project in a different country or city, we conduct thorough research on the regional characteristics, key aspects, and cultural context of the project. Based on this understanding, we maintain effective communication with the client.
The most distinctive and competitive aspect of Nanjing Back to Yaxi Manor Resort lies in its deep integration with local culture. It is uniquely situated within the unparalleled National 4A-rated tourist attraction—Gaochun Slow City, Yaxi Town, surrounded by Nanjing’s largest pristine bamboo forest, Qianshan Zhuhai, offering a serene and picturesque landscape. We believe that in such a setting, architecture should have a sense of belonging. This belonging is not merely expressed through symbolic elements but rather through the connection between the building, its environment, and human activity.
Guided by the laws of nature, the character of the landscape, and the essence of local culture, we create spaces that are in harmony with their surroundings. Every material is carefully selected to complement the natural environment, ensuring that architecture, interior design, and daily life are seamlessly integrated—creating a place where people can truly connect with nature and experience a sense of home.
Can you expand on your choice of materials? Why did you choose more natural-looking ones, and what was your favourite to work with?
We adhere to three core principles: ecological sustainability, regional adaptability, and cultural symbolism. Our primary consideration is the material’s natural properties and renewability. For instance, we prioritize fast-growing plant fibers such as bamboo, which not only boast excellent physical performance but also carry strong regional symbolism.
Nanjing’s abundant bamboo forests provide a rich local resource, which, through modern craftsmanship, can be transformed into materials with woven bamboo textures. This approach not only aligns with low-carbon and eco-friendly objectives but also preserves the traditional Jiangnan aesthetic of “bamboo shadows dancing on window screens.”
What was the biggest challenge you faced in this project? How did you solve it?
One of the biggest challenges in this project is integrating ecological sustainability with artistic expression—a core principle that has guided our design from the very beginning. To achieve this harmony, we have drawn inspiration from the surrounding natural environment. For instance, we have incorporated an infinity pool within the rice fields, creating a seamless connection between architecture and nature. This design not only enhances the aesthetic experience but also encourages people to reflect on environmental conservation and the importance of sustainable development. Through this space, we hope visitors can truly appreciate the harmony between nature and human creativity, experiencing both the beauty of life and the presence of art.
Congratulations on winning the “Interior Design of the Year – Living Space” category at the LIV Awards! What does this recognition mean to you and your team?
This honor recognizes and encourages every member of the YuQiang & Partners team. We extend our heartfelt gratitude to our clients for their trust and to our partners for their technical support. Without the close collaboration of our interdisciplinary team, this project would not have come to fruition.
Receiving this award also validates our approach to cultural heritage. In an era of globalization, we firmly believe that true design innovation must be rooted in a profound understanding of local culture. We hope this recognition will inspire more professionals to focus on cultural preservation and sustainable design, leading the industry toward solutions with true spiritual significance.
Can you tell us about what’s in the cards for your studio? Are there any upcoming projects that you can tell us about?
We remain committed to deep exploration within the design field, and in the future, we aim to create more competitive and groundbreaking works in the realms of office spaces, residential projects, luxury homes, and innovative commercial ventures. Currently, several key international and domestic projects are in the implementation phase, and we are grateful for the ongoing support and attention from all sectors.
