Kongjian Yu, a visionary landscape architect and global advocate for sustainable urban design, pioneered the "Sponge Planet" philosophy, transforming water from a threat into a resource. His nature-based solutions harness water's flow to create resilient, eco-friendly cities. Yu's work, recognized with the Oberlander Prize, inspires worldwide adoption of innovative water management. Collaborating with Boston's Stone Living Lab, he proposed sustainable strategies for sea-level rise and wetland lo...

Kongjian Yu, a leading advocate for Sponge Cities, promotes nature-based solutions to combat climate change by integrating water management into urban design. His concept of a "sponge planet" encourages cities to absorb and manage water, rather than resist it with artificial barriers. During a recent visit to Boston, Yu shared his expertise on restoring ecological resilience through "living sea walls" and stormwater capture systems. His work, which includes award-winning projects by Turenscape, ...

Yu, a professor and founding dean of Peking University College of Architecture and Landscape and founder and design principal of Turenscape, shared his groundbreaking concept of “sponge cities” as part of the Chancellor’s Lecture Series on October 24.

This article discusses the concept of "sponge cities" as a solution to urban flooding and climate change. Highlighting the work of Kongjian Yu, a leading landscape architect, it explains how his designs integrate natural water management systems, such as permeable surfaces and green spaces, into urban environments. Yu’s approach promotes resilience by allowing cities to absorb and manage rainwater, reducing flood risks and supporting ecological balance. His vision of "ecological civilization" of...

The article "Soak It Up: How Cities Are Handling the Rise in Floodwaters" explores innovative urban strategies to mitigate the impact of rising floodwaters due to climate change. Highlighting the growing frequency and intensity of urban flooding, the article examines how cities worldwide are implementing sustainable solutions such as green infrastructure, permeable surfaces, and water-sensitive design. Notably, Kongjian Yu, a prominent landscape architect and urban planner, emphasizes the need f...

At the end of every year, Azure’s editorial team gathers to observe an annual tradition; deciding — and debating — the year’s best in design, from interiors and products to residential and commercial architecture.Benjakitti Forest Park, Bangkok, by Turenscape is on the list.

Turenscape project A Breathing Sea Wall: Haikou Jiangdong Beach Park has been highly commended Dezeen Awards 2024 landscape and urban design project of the year!