Ma Yansong is the first architect from the Mainland who won renowned international landmark designs, and one of the most influential Mainland architects. Graduated from Yale University in 2002, Ma founded MAD architects in 2004, committed to developing futuristic, organic, technologically advanced designs that embody a contemporary interpretation of the Eastern affinity with nature. With a vision for the city of the future based on residents’ spiritual and emotional needs, MAD architects endeavors to create a balance between humanity, the city, and the environment.

The firm’s culturally rich architecture designs have gained widespread attention globally. Notable works include the Harbin Opera House, the Absolute Towers in Mississauga, Canada, and the Lucas Museum of Narrative Art in Los Angeles.

Ma was named one of the “10 Most Creative People in Architecture” in 2009 and “100 Most Creative People in Business” in 2014 by Fast Company. He received the “RIBA International Fellowship” by the Royal Institute of British Architects in 2010 and was awarded “Young Global Leaders (YGL)” by the World Economic Forum in 2014.

Portrait©Greg Mei