Wei Wen

I am an urban designer driven by the belief that urban design should contribute to a better society. Thoughtful design not only supports robust systems for housing, economy, infrastructure, and institutions, but also empowers individuals to realize their potential and creativity.

After completing the postgraduate Housing and Urbanism program at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London, I joined Studio Egret West, where I have worked for five years. SEW’s transdisciplinary approach — integrating architecture, urban design, and landscape — has exposed me to a diverse range of projects, enriching my skills and perspectives.

My early work focused on housing projects, such as The Rockery, which deepened my understanding of SEW’s collaborative methodology. I later contributed to the transformative £10 billion Earls Court development in West London, balancing commercial objectives, design quality, and inclusivity. Currently, I focus in life sciences, healthcare, and wellbeing, exemplified by my work on the framework for the Institute of Cancer Research and Royal Marsden Hospital in Sutton. These projects require both technical expertise and a user-centred approach to meet the needs of scientists, patients, and medical teams.

Beyond practice, I am passionate about exploring diverse cultures and researching emerging trends to keep pace with our rapidly changing world. At SEW, I have participated in international competitions, including Bratislava and the Middle East, where our innovative designs succeed on a global stage. My research has also contributed to SEW’s thought leadership, shaping initiatives such as the Future Food exhibition, addressing sustainable food production in urban settings.