Dr. Zaiyi Liao

In fast-developing China, building science expertise is in demand—and so is Zaiyi Liao. For several years, Liao has been collaborating with researchers and industry to develop a solution for monitoring and assessing the structural safety of shelters on the country’s high-speed train platforms. He also consults on other matters, including building envelopes. “In China, they have many of the same weather fluctuations and needs that we have in Canada,” he says, “which means there are many opportunities for our professionals.”

Recently, Liao took a group of fourth-year DAS students to the city of Yichang in central China. Their assignment? Design a bed and breakfast for a self-sustaining organic farm and agro-tourism attraction. Liao had his students perform site surveys and topology analysis, and he encouraged them to incorporate local architectural traditions. The owner of the farm was so thrilled with their work that he plans on constructing their design. “The project was successful because it combined local tradition with Canadian building science,” says Liao. “It was the best of both worlds.”