Xu Tiantian in conversation with Martha Thorne

Xu Tiantian is an internationally recognized architect and the founder of DnA Design and Architecture. She has been extensively involved in the process of rural revitalization in China. Her innovative “Architectural Acupuncture” is a holistic approach to heritage and the social and economic revitalization of rural China. UN-Habitat has selected this work as the 'Inspiring Practice' case study on urban-rural linkages. Its social design approach is aimed at maximizing benefits for both the location and its people. The traditional building culture in rural areas differs significantly from that of urban areas. By integrating communities with their environment and considering the cultural and economic context, architecture becomes a fundamental tool for improving agrarian village life.

Born in Fujian China, she received her Bachelor of Architecture degree from Tsinghua University in Beijing and her Master of Architecture degree in Urban Design from Harvard University - GSD. She has received numerous awards, including the WA China Architecture Award in 2006 and 2008, the Emerging Architects Award from the Architectural League of New York in 2008, the Design Vanguard Award in 2009 from Architecture Record, the Moira Gemmill Award for Emerging Women Architects in 2019, and the Global Award for Sustainable Architecture in 2023, among others. In 2020, she was named an Honorary Fellow of the American Institute of Architects.

Tiantian will discuss his work with Martha Thorne, urban planner and senior advisor to the international cutting-edge award for people and planet, the OBEL Award; she was executive director of the Pritzker Architecture Prize. The event will be presented by Nuria Canivell, dean of the Official College of Architects of Seville.