Syracuse Sun

Linxi (Jenny) Zhang, a fifth-year bachelor of architecture degree student in the School of Architecture, has been recognized in Metropolis magazine's Future100, an elite group of architecture and interior architecture students from the United States and Canada.

In a letter addressing Zhang, Avinash Rajagopal, the editor in chief of Metropolis magazine, expressed their admiration for the quality of work submitted and the potential Zhang holds for the industry. Rajagopal stated, "We were blown away by the quality of work you and your peers submitted, and we feel that you represent a bright future for our industry—one of beautiful, thoughtful, innovative, sustainable and inclusive design."

Zhang's design portfolio showcases her interest in the relationship between spaces, sequence, and formal aesthetic. She is particularly focused on how architecture design and user experience impact people's lives. One of her notable projects, "LPC Headquarters," involved designing a building atop an existing landmark for the NYC Landmarks Preservation Commission. Zhang's design incorporated setbacks on all sides and featured a cantilevered hearing hall, open office spaces, meeting rooms, and a museum/exhibition area.

Daekwon Park, undergraduate chair and associate professor in the School of Architecture, commended Zhang's ability to consider urban context and user experience in her architectural designs. Park noted, "Among her various attributes, Jenny’s ability to construct architectural tectonics and forms from thoughtful consideration of urban context and user experience is notable."

Expressing her gratitude for the recognition, Zhang stated, "I am greatly honored to have been selected for Metropolis magazine’s Future100, knowing that my work and design concepts are recognized by the wider audience." She plans to continue dedicating herself to designing and renovating architecture to benefit communities by addressing social issues and enhancing people's quality of life.

Looking ahead, Zhang aims to gain practical experience in the architecture profession post-graduation and intends to pursue further research while considering graduate school in the future. As part of the Future100 honor, Zhang's work will be featured in a compilation of video segments by DESIGNTV by SANDOW, showcasing the talented members of the Future100 class of 2024.