Immersed in the world of design from a young age, Qi Fan’s passion for urban spatial design drove him to establish Vari Design. He discusses the importance of approaching large-scale projects from a human scale and asserts the importance of designing with people at the centre.

What drove your initial interest in spatial design?

QI FAN: Both of my parents work in the construction industry, which ignited my passion for urbanism and spatial planning. Observing how the neighbourhoods from my childhood have evolved over time was an inspiration to me, which was solidified while pursuing my architecture studies in China. I conducted a comprehensive and systematic examination of spatial design and urban planning, acquiring a more profound understanding of these domains. As a graduate student at the University of Pennsylvania, I had the privilege of immersing myself in a foreign culture, which broadened my insights and knowledge of spatial design and urban planning. After returning to China, I opted to specialize in architectural design and continued to concentrate on the revitalization of urban areas.

My co-founder Dingliang Yang and I discovered a shared interest in the urban development and renewal of China's ongoing urbanization process. As a result, we established Vari Design, a research centre focused on addressing the challenges and opportunities encountered during the urban construction and renewal process, through cross-scale practices and innovative strategies.

Qi Fan.

You’ve designed projects in China and the USA. How did either experience help inform the other? 

The diverse project experiences we have gained in China and abroad are invaluable to our design practice, as they provide us with insights into global design trends. The exposure to different social contexts and client lifestyles and needs has expanded our vision and understanding. By reflecting on and summarizing our experiences across various projects, we can continuously improve our design concepts and practical abilities. This process of organic growth is fundamental to our development as designers.

Your practice is commissioned for urban projects ranging in scale – from shops and restaurants to urban planning and development. In what ways does your approach to the seemingly very different typologies vary?

Urban spaces can vary greatly in function, aesthetics and sustainability, depending on their scale. However, regardless of scale, the key to successful urban design lies in understanding the essence of cities, buildings and spaces, which is peoples’ perception of and needs from that particular space. For instance, our designs for Xinshan Bookstore and Anaago, two urban spaces of different scales, were informed by extensive research and analysis of the local environment and the community’s living needs. By selecting appropriate materials and spatial layouts, we were able to create spaces that catered to the needs of users. Our approach to urban spatial design is not limited to any specific category or style, as we believe people should be at the core of designing our cities.

Located in Chongqing’s old town district, Anaago Bistro’s semi-outdoor entrance mediates the interaction of the district, street and the space itself.

Urban planning and development are large-scale projects that frame small-scale interactions. What role do micro spaces play in creating community and is it important to consider them when designing on a larger scale?

It’s very necessary. Micro-spaces play a crucial role in urban development, serving as the capillaries of the city by providing essential services and facilities for residents. They are carriers of urban culture, community and lifestyle. When designing urban spaces of different scales, we can achieve mutual guidance and empowerment through scale conversion. 

Conversely, interior designers should consider the fabric of urban developments when designing such spaces. It’s important for designers to have a keen perception and insight to understand the direction and needs of urban development. The space must be considered holistically within the context of the city and should provide an experience that links outwards. Designers need to think from the perspective of pedestrians, consider the boundaries of micro spaces, and how they can be organically linked with other urban spaces of different scales. Take the Anaago Bistro as an example, which is a representative micro-space project located in the centre of a new urban block. Organic interaction was the focus of our thinking, and we sought to create multiple scattered village scenes with different functions within a limited space. The subtle details and proportion balance in the space, as well as the use of local cultural materials and design elements.

 The Xinshan Bookstore seeks to incorporate Linqiong’s 2,300 years of history, taking design cues from traditional Chinese architecture while serving the current community’s needs as a social gathering space.

What are the most important factors driving the state of urban design and development in China right now?

In my opinion, people are the driving force behind the development of every city, despite the impact of factors such as rapid urbanization, economic growth and birth rate. As designers, it's crucial to observe and understand people's needs, psychology and behavioural habits in order to create spaces that serve them. To achieve this, we need to stay updated with international standards and learn from the world's advanced urban planning and design concepts and technologies. By broadening our horizons and enhancing our capabilities with an international perspective, we can combine our knowledge and innovation capabilities to create spatial scenarios that cater to people's needs at different scales.

Cover image: Large windows connect the interior of the Jii Chan hospitality space in Jiefangbei, Chongqing, with the surrounding city. Inside, intimate nooks and a nature-inspired design transform the space into an urban retreat.