Dr John Zhang

Dr John Zhang


As an educator, I lead the experimental 3rd year BA Architecture studio in conjunction with CAFA in China. Ima also the 3rd year design module leader for the BSc Architecture and Environmental Design Programme. As a researcher, I have a strong research interest and have published on the topics of contemporary Chinese architecture and housing. I am the co-convenor of the Making and Practice Research Group at the School of Architecture and Cities. As an Architect, I am the founder of London-based architecture practice Studio JZ. Prior to this I was an associate at award winning practice DSDHA. I studied architecture at Cambridge University and the Royal College of Art, winning the Conran Foundation Design Award and the Will Alsop Award for Urbanism for his Master’s design thesis. I completed my PhD, also at the RCA, on the topic of contemporary Chinese architecture practice, funded by an AEDAS Scholarship. 


I have a strong research interest in three particular areas: housing under a globally comparative perspective, the conditions of contemporary Chinese architectural practice, and representation as practice to address the climate crisis.

I welcome PHD applications from students who have overlapping interests in the above.


  • Design Practices