On May 20, 2026, as Tongji University celebrated its 119th anniversary and launched a series of events leading up to its 120th anniversary, the College of Architecture and Urban Planning (CAUP) held a ceremony to appoint renowned architect Liu Yichun as Honorary Chair of the Department of Architecture.

The appointment ceremony took place at CAUP and was attended by distinguished university leaders, including Tongji University President Yang Jinlong, Academician Chang Qing, and Vice President Li Xiangning. The appointment certificate was jointly presented to Liu by Wang Zhendong, Party Secretary of CAUP, and Philip F. Yuan, Dean of CAUP, marking a new chapter in the development of the Department of Architecture.

Liu Yichun is one of China’s most influential contemporary architects and the founding principal of Atelier Deshaus. A graduate of Tongji University, he has long maintained close ties with his alma mater and has made significant contributions to architectural education and professional practice. His appointment reflects the College’s commitment to strengthening the connection between academic education, architectural research, and professional innovation.

Speaking at the ceremony, university and college leaders highlighted Liu’s achievements in architectural design, education, and cultural discourse. They expressed confidence that his guidance and vision would further enhance the Department’s academic development, international influence, and talent cultivation. Liu thanked Tongji University for its trust and support, recalling his formative years at the university and expressing his commitment to contributing to the future growth of the College and its academic programs.

The appointment coincided with the opening of Reconstructing Continuity: Reweaving Time, an exhibition featuring selected works by Atelier Deshaus. The exhibition showcases projects that engage with industrial heritage, historic sites, and existing urban structures, reflecting Liu’s long-standing exploration of architecture as a dialogue between past and present.

A public forum was also held in conjunction with the exhibition. Liu delivered the inaugural lecture of the CAUP Horizon Lecture Series, sharing reflections on his architectural practice and design philosophy. Scholars, architects, editors, and educators from leading universities and institutions across China participated in panel discussions on architectural theory, education, and professional practice.

The appointment of Liu Yichun as Honorary Chair represents not only a recognition of his distinguished career, but also an important step in advancing Tongji Architecture’s mission of integrating education, research, and practice. As the University approaches its 120th anniversary, the appointment underscores CAUP’s continuing efforts to cultivate academic excellence and inspire future generations of architects.