Zhang Jinqiu

Zhang Jinqiu is a Chinese architect and professor at Tsinghua University. She was titled "Construction Master" and "Academician of China" (1994) by the Chinese government. She was appointed Chief Architect for China's Capital Construction Design Group in 1987 and has remained in this position until now. Zhang was also among the first round of winners of the Xi'an Science and Technology Award for Outstanding Contributions in 2005. By 2011, she was elected as a member of the prestigious Chinese Academy of Engineering.

Early life and education Zhang was born in Chengdu, Sichuan province, into a family that values education. Her aunt, Zhang Yuquan, is one of China's first generation of women architects. Her parents raised her "to have ambitions, to stand on my own two feet in society and not to rely on others." She was one year old when the Second Sino-Japanese War started and the Japanese invaded China. Her family was evacuated to a remote countryside known as Xipu. Beyond revitalising the ancient city and its history, Zhang's designs present architectural features of the past in the modern context. This approach, often referred as the "Neo-Tang Style," gained popularity through her works. "The Tang style that I practice is a way of exploring diversified creations. I like different architectural designs as long as they suit the time, place, and theme at that time."

Zhang designed several contemporary landmark buildings in Xi'an, including the Shaanxi History Museum, Tang Lotus Garden and Famen Temple. She also participated in the design of the Beijing Revolutionary History Museum and the Chairman Mao Memorial Hall. Ms. Zhang and two Chinese female architects who have won the honorary title of "Architectural Master."

Zhang also insists on leaving historical traces and cultural charm in architectural design and treats historical and cultural heritage with heart and affection. "Modern and uncoordinated buildings cannot be built in old cities and protected areas, and in development areas, not all buildings should be built in the Zhou, Qin, Han and Tang styles." Zhang Jinqiu gave an example, "Today's high-tech zones and economic development zones can be built according to the functions of the new zones. To develop and construct high-rise buildings and modern glass curtain walls, but there must be restrictions next to the Big Wild Goose Pagoda and within the city walls."

Projects

The Huaqing Palace

Xi'an's Bell Tower and Drum Tower

Shaanxi History Museum

The Tang Lotus Garden

Main Hall of the Huandi Mausoleum

Famen Temple

Yan'an Revolutionary Memorial Hall

Beijing Revolution History Museum

Memorial Hall of Chairman Mao

Awards 1994 awarded title of Academician of China.

2001 Liang Sicheng Architecture Award.

2005 Xian Science and Technology for Outstanding Contributions.

2010 Science and Technology Achievement Award.