Hong Wei

Hometown: Suzhou, China
Education Background: Bachelor of Architecture 24’ from Rhode Island School of Design, US

How did you get interested in your field?
I became interested in the environmental building design during an undergraduate studio that explored how architecture can respond to climate changes. This experience made me realize that buildings should do more than just look aesthetically pleasing—they also need to perform efficiently in terms of energy use, lighting, water consumption and so on. As climate challenges become more urgent, I am eager to explore bioclimatic strategies and how design can contribute to sustainable and resilient built environments.

What was your background prior to coming to Penn?
I joined Penn’s MEBD program immediately after my bachelor's studies. During my undergraduate years, I had the opportunity to explore urban ecology and resilience, and I interned in both architectural and interior design.

Why did you choose Penn?
I chose Penn because it is one of the few universities with a long-established Environmental Building Design program. One of the most widely used Grasshopper plugins (Ladybug Tools) for environmental design and building performance simulation was developed by a student (Mostapha Sadeghipour Roudsari) in Penn’s MEBD program. This strong foundation in computational design and sustainability convinced me that my studies at Penn would be highly rewarding.

What has been your favorite class so far?
My favorite class is Building Performance Simulation because it taught me how to make design decisions based on solid simulation results,  for example, optimizing energy efficiency and improving lighting conditions in buildings.

What are you learning right now that will help you in the future?
I'm studying bioclimatic design theories alongside a studio course that applies these strategies in practice. Additionally, simulation courses—such as CFD, lighting, and energy simulations—help me evaluate the effectiveness of my design decisions.

What do you like best about Philadelphia?
Philadelphia offers a rich blend of history, culture, and urban energy. What I appreciate most is its walkability, diverse architecture, and green spaces like the Schuylkill River Trail, which make the city vibrant and enjoyable to explore.

What kinds of activities and/or organizations are you involved in?
I'm currently a member of Penn’s Kendo Club, where I usually practice twice a week. It’s a great way to stay active, build discipline, and connect with others who share an interest in martial arts.

What are your career ambitions?
I want to become an environmental building consultant, working with various buildings and people to promote sustainable designs.