Yan Zhou

Background

About Yan Zhou

My research interests range from traditional Chinese architectural heritage to the cultural significance represented in the Chinese diasporic heritage practices in the built environment. My academic background includes architectural design, architectural history, art history, historic building conservation, and participatory heritage management. I obtained my master’s degree at Tsinghua University, with a research focus on the architectural massing typologies in the Song Dynasty, including chronological and appraisal assessments, and parametric modelling based on iconographical evidence. I conducted field research about overseas Chinese remittance houses in my hometown, Zhongshan, Guangdong, China. Currently I am a PhD researcher at the Delft University of Technology, where my research project,'Picturing a Common Homeland: Identifying Diasporic Heritage Through Community Participation,' explores the intersection of diasporic heritage and community involvement through AI and qualitative methods. My work seeks to contribute to a better understanding of how diasporic heritage can be managed and preserved for future generations. I’m also passionate about travelling, swimming and painting. Having travelled to 25+ countries, I bring a global perspective and appreciation for diverse cultures to my research and work.