VB: So it is the focus on space that you take from traditional Chinese architecture to your contemporary work right?

LX:Absolutely. You can see that the form did not change in traditional Chinese architecture for hundreds of years. Just like Lao-Tzu said what is important is what is contained not the container. Again forms were never important here. It is more about identifying original conditions than inventing original forms.

Throughout its history Chinese society was largely agricultural for which you need a collective mindset. For example Confucius talked about the importance of hierarchy to ensure political stability. Our society was not about the individual but about how we could work and progress together. Otherwise there is chaos. Creativity needs individuality but individuality was never an important issue in Chinese society historically. Collectiveness was more important than expressing individuality.