If there was ever any doubt as to the talent of up-and-coming architects and designers that reside in the Indo-Pacific in 2022, then the INDE.Awards shortlist for The Prodigy this year showcases the incredible calibre of creatives that is dominating the region. 

With an expanded group in 2022, seven exciting and inspirational rising stars of architecture and design contended for the ultimate accolade of The Prodigy and congratulations go to Sean Shen, Xuanru Chen and Yu-ying Tsai of ZJJZ based in China, winners of this coveted award.

Supporting The Prodigy, Milliken applauds the INDE.Awards winner and indeed the shortlist for their impressive talent that is making waves right around the region. With an understanding that even the best architects and designers benefit from the spotlight on a global stage, Milliken is ensuring that talent is recognised through The Prodigy, looking to the future of design, and helping to make the journey for the next design stars a little easier.

As Shaneel Deo, Managing Director, Milliken comments that Sean Shen, Xuanru Chen and Yu-ying Tsai have, “The courage to believe in themselves and forge their own destiny through establishing ZJJZ. This shows the strong character of the team and provides a wonderful platform for the practitioners to realise their vision of architecture and the connection to nature.”

Since establishment of the practice in 2017, ZJJZ has been making a huge impact not only in China but around the world. The trio of Shen, Chen and Tsai see architecture as a structure that coexists with people and nature and design their projects according to this idea as Deo reflects, “The winning entry and the future of design in the region showcases the interaction and connectivity of design and nature in harmony.

The idea of romancing and shaping architecture itself with the likelihood of people joining in activities in these spaces brings out the experiential and memorable experience that the designer wants to achieve for the occupant/user. In addition, the use of natural elements that is more prevalent in the designs within the region, signifies an environment that is more natural in manner.”

Designs by ZJJZ are in sync with the natural surroundings as sustainability is integral to the ethos of the practice. In this, Milliken is an advocate for a global sustainable environment within its business both now and looking to the future. As Deo explains, “At Milliken, our philosophy is Possibility with Purpose, because a positive and sustainable impact is what we focus on in everything we do, from design to manufacturing to how we connect with the community we work in.”

As supporter of The Prodigy, Milliken and the 2022 The Prodigy winner are like-thinkers, perfectly paired in ideas, process and result.

Congratulations to Sean Shen, Xuanru Chen and Yu-ying Tsai of ZJJZ. Your work is making an impact and creating discourse around our region and indeed the world and changing perceptions of design.

Photography courtesy of ZJJZ

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