Revitalizing Tsinghua EE: A Fusion of Technology and Humanistic Care

Yao Lu and Team's Award-Winning Renovation at Tsinghua University

At the prestigious Tsinghua University, the Department of Electronic Engineering's building stands as a testament to innovation and academic excellence. Designed by Yao Lu, Zhou Yun, and Zhou Xu, the building's recent renovation has not only refreshed its appearance but also reinvigorated the spirit of the department. The renovation, commemorating the department's 70th anniversary, aimed to reflect the culture and educational ethos that Tsinghua University embodies.

Unique in its approach, the renovation project centered around the concept of "energy transmission," drawing from the department's rich history and achievements. The designers strategically opened up previously closed spaces, integrating "E cubes" to serve various functions, from exhibitions to seminars, without altering the existing spatial structures. This delicate balance of preservation and innovation is a hallmark of the project's success.

Realization of this vision was achieved through the use of modern materials and technology. The entrance lobby was transformed with blue glass boxes, serving multiple purposes and enhancing the building's technological aura. Aluminum plates and strategic lighting further contributed to the futuristic ambiance. The renovation extended to the 6th floor, where interactive installations and a reimagined layout foster narratives of the department's storied past and its ongoing quest for scientific breakthroughs.

The technical specifications of the project were meticulously planned. The L-shaped layout of each floor was retained, with the renovation focusing on the public spaces to facilitate identity display, communication, and exhibitions. The total area revamped spanned 1,767 square meters, ensuring that the building's new design catered to a variety of functions while honoring its original architecture.

The design team's efforts have not gone unnoticed. Their work has been recognized with a Silver A' Interior Space, Retail and Exhibition Design Award in 2024, a testament to their creative and professional excellence. This accolade underscores the project's success in showcasing a remarkable level of expertise and innovation, capturing the essence of Tsinghua's spirit in a space designed for the future.

Despite challenges such as the need to maintain normal department operations during renovations and the constraints imposed by the COVID-19 pandemic, the project was completed between November 2020 and July 2022. The result is a space that not only facilitates the department's activities but also serves as an interactive platform for students and faculty to engage with the legacy and future of electronic engineering at Tsinghua University.

In conclusion, the Tsinghua Electronic Engineering Building renovation stands as a beacon of design excellence, where technology and humanistic care converge. It is a space that embodies the department's inclusive philosophy and pioneering spirit, offering an environment that fosters innovation and collaboration. The project serves as a blueprint for how educational spaces can evolve to meet the changing needs of academia while preserving their historical significance.