2026 Ones to Watch - Rising Stars: Hengyue Wang , VIVO Architecture

“Hengyue Wang is a rising architectural designer focused on lab planning and science-driven environments. His work centers on research facilities and laboratories, where precision, safety, and adaptability are essential. By integrating complex building systems with human-centered design, he creates efficient and flexible spaces that support scientific innovation and advance high-performance laboratory design.”

What accomplishment or project so far in your career are you most proud of? One project I am especially proud of was the renovation and fit-out of a multi-story laboratory building. I contributed to transforming the building into a modern research environment that balanced complex technical requirements with day-to-day functionality for its users. What made the project meaningful was the need to coordinate design, building systems, and user needs across multiple floors. It showed me how thoughtful architectural work can improve performance, support scientific work, and create a better experience for the people inside.

What trends or opportunities do you see shaping the future of your industry? I see the future of architecture being shaped by flexibility, sustainability, and smarter integration of technology. Workplaces, labs, and institutional spaces now need to adapt more quickly to changing needs, which creates opportunities for more resilient and user-centered design. I also see growing value in combining technical performance with human experience, especially in science, healthcare, and workplace projects where design can support well-being, efficiency, and long-term organizational goals.