Yinzhu Yao is a dynamic architectural designer whose expertise is shaped by a broad and diverse background, spanning multiple countries and disciplines. With both a BArch and MArch degree, Yinzhu's design philosophy centers on creating spaces that are innovative, sustainable, and deeply connected to their cultural and environmental contexts. Professionally, Yinzhu has honed their craft at some of the most prestigious architectural firms around the globe. As a Technical Designer at Gensler in Washington, D.C., Yinzhu played a crucial role in high-stakes projects that demanded both creative ingenuity and technical precision. Their experiences at Sou Fujimoto Atelier in Tokyo and Kengo Kuma & Associates provided unique insights into innovative design philosophies, reinforcing Yinzhu's belief in the power of architecture to harmonize functionality with aesthetic beauty.

In many ways, architects are the ones who shape the concept of "home." Yinzhu's understanding of nostalgia is that one has a home but cannot return to it, and yet is forced to embark on a journey. Having been away from home for many years, Yinzhu came to the United States for academic and career growth. From this perspective, Yinzhu deeply resonates with architectural designs that evoke feelings of nostalgia. A home represents a safe haven for everyone, while the journey away from it symbolizes freedom, exploration, and progress. It is both alluring and thrilling, yet filled with unknown risks. Many individuals, in the moment of departure, may not fully grasp the significance of separation, as they are often driven by ambition and the opportunities of the present. Nostalgia, as a sentiment, tends to manifest later, slowly revealing its emotional weight over time.