Dafeng Cai

“I view buildings as a medium to nurture the connection between humans and nature,” says Dafeng. He takes inspiration from the Taoist concept of Tian Ren He Yi, which roughly translates to “harmony between heaven and humans,” he explains. “It suggests that by aligning our actions and thoughts with the natural world, we can achieve harmony and balance in our lives.” Dafeng says serving as project architect on the Chesapeake Bay Foundation Brock Environmental Center—a Living Building Challenge-certified project—had a profound impact on his career, where his passion for sustainability “truly blossomed.” While he works to create a healthier built environment, Dafeng enjoys the occasional escape to Great Falls Park along the Potomac River in Virginia, which he appreciates for its beauty, rich history and easy access from his DC-area home.