Leean Li Portfolio 2025

SELECTED WORKS

Annan “Leean” L i Master of Architec ture , 2023-2025

ANNAN “LEEAN” LI

2929 Walnut Street, APT 3824, Philadelphia, PA, 19104 267-252-6488 | anl320@sas.upenn.edu

Education Master of Architecture | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA

AUG, 2023 – MAY, 2026

Bachelor of Arts | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia, PA

AUG, 2019 – MAY, 2023

• • •

Major: Architecture (Intensive Design Concentration) Minor: Consumer Psychology, Design GPA 3.89, Dean’s List 2022, 2023

Work Experience Research Assistant | University of Pennsylvania | Philadelphia • • •

Collaborated with local Chinese non-profits and planning groups to develop alternative plans for the proposed 76ers arena Utilized Midjourney, Adobe Suite, and Rhino to design and present innovative solutions that balanced community needs with cultural preservation Contributed technical expertise and creative insights, enhancing team efforts to advocate for Chinatown conservation and community-centric development

Intern Architect | Zhubo Architecture | Shenzhen, China • •

•

MAR, 2021 – JUN, 2021

Produced construction drawings using Autocad and prepared analysis drawings for residential building and presentation using Adobe Suite and Microsoft Office

Intern Tour Guide | The Palace Museum at the Forbidden City | Beijing, China •

JUN, 2021 – AUG, 2021

Conducted local research under supervision regarding local needs for city park proposal including interviewing residents, government officials Facilitated in building 3D model using Sketchup, chipboard and 3D printing, became familiarized with large-scale landscape models

Intern Architect | Bowan Architecture | Shenzhen, China •

MAY, 2023 – AUG, 2023

Worked on conceptual design, produced drawings including site analysis, floor plan for a residential project competition in Yuzhugang, Guangzhou Used Sketchup, Adobe suites and Micro. Office, acquired skills in drawing construction documents using Autocad and presenting to Jury

Assistant Researcher | Shenzhen University, School of Architecture and Urban Planning | Shenzhen, China •

JAN, 2024 – MAY, 2024

JUL, 2020 – AUG, 2020

Conducted detailed analyses for individual exhibits under supervision of supervisor

Award and Activities Richard Wesley Fellowship | University of Philadelphia “Towers” Exhibition | Institute of Contemporary Art (ICA), Philadelphia Founding Member | iREAD Foundation Marketing Committee Member | TedxPenn

AUG, 2023 – PRESENT OCT, 2023 – NOV, 2023 MAR, 2008 – PRESENT SEP, 2019 – MAY, 2020

Technical Skills Adobe CC Suite, Microsoft Office, Rhino, Sketchup, Revit, Autocad, Blender, V-ray, Enscape, Lumion, Midjourney, Sketching, Painting, Photography, Print-making 3

CONTENTS

FLUID CURREN TS

I

THE EMBR ACE

II

TOWERS

III

ELE VATED VILL AGE

IV

OTHER WORK S

V

FLUID

CURRENTS

Reviving Upenn

the

2024

Flatiron

Core

Studio

The adaptive reuse of the Flatiron Building envisions dynamic public spaces that flow from the ground level to the rooftop, extending the vibrant culinary life of the adjacent streetside dining and surrounding restaurants. Inspired by the fluid formations of tuna fish, the design introduces graceful curvature and movement, echoing the arcs of the fish’s body and the interrelations within a school. These fluid lines transform the building’s interior and exterior, creating a seamless connection between spaces and drawing activity upward.

This dynamic transformation combines the Flatiron’s historic elegance with a vision of fluidity and movement, breathing new life into the structure while enhancing the connection between its spatial experiences and the public realm.

Instructor: Hina Jamelle Location: Flatiron Building, New York City Individual Project, Fall 2024

FLUID CURRENTS

7

FLUID CURRENTS

Individua Motion A ( Le ft )

Renderin

( To p M i d d

Fish Scho Repre sen

( To p R i g ht

Unfolded Ele vation

( B o t to m R

The research delves into the dynamic motion of tuna fish, emphasizing the rhythmic interplay between the fin, head, and tail. This motion, characterized by a back-and-forth undulation, is meticulously analyzed, with the degree of change in each part measured and graphed. These quantified movements and curvatures directly inform the generation of forms that include architectural elements such as opening, frames, balconies, etc, as shown in the rendering samples. Additionally, the collective motion of a fish school

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is represented. The circling behavior of the fish is ed into a series of fluid, revolving bands as show unfolded black and white elevation diagram. The when interpreted in 3D, evolve into vortexing for dynamically wrap around the Flatiron Building, c the essence of the school’s swirling energy. The spaces the black bands, rendered in grey, represent resident emphasizing the integration of motion-inspired a with functional design, as shown in the unfolded ele

FLUID CURRENTS

al Fish Anal y se s

ng Sample s

dle)

ool ntation

t)

d B&W n Illustration

R i g ht )

translatwn in the ese bands, rms that capturing between tial units, aesthetics evation.

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ICA Extension

Units Ag gregation Un i t s a g g re gate a ro u n d

w ra p p i n g a ro u n d th e Fl at

Through the lens of food ines the Flatiron Buil hub where the universa transcends cultural a ies, fostering a profoun Beginning in the base try connects directly to are greeted by the entic from bustling kitchens, atmosphere that imme senses. The first floor op mal dining area, a livel from all walks of life c meals in a casual, com er up, shared commun neighbors with opportu er, exchange recipes, an

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FLUID CURRENTS

KEY 1. Test Kitchen 2. Employee Break Room 3. Changing Room 4. Experiment Kitchen 5. Test Kitchen

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6. Library 7. Classroom 8. Office 9. Storage

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10. Refrigerated Storage 11. Bathroom

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12. Round Cafe 13. Subway Exit 1

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14. Subway Exit 2 12 8

1

14

2

3

n Diagram b a n d , re v o l v i n g a n d

t i ro n .

d, the project reimaglding as a dynamic al language of cuisine and social boundarnd sense of belonging. ement, where an enthe subway, visitors cing aromas wafting , creating an inviting ediately engages the pens up into an inforly space where people can gather and share mmunal setting. Highnity kitchens provide unities to cook togethnd build connections.

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4

5

6

7

FLUID CURRENTS

Rend ( Le ft )

Unfol

( To p R

Groun

( B o t to

12

FLUID CURRENTS

ering

lded Ele vation

R i g ht )

nd Floor Plan

o m R i g ht )

KEY

1. Corner Cafe

7. Delivery Reception

2. Package Room

8. Service Elevator

3. Lobby

9. Public Bathroom

4. Mailbox

10. Food Truck Plaza

5. Storage

11. Bike Stand

6. Employee Bathroom 8

11 9

10

7

6 4 2

1

13

3

5

FLUID CURRENTS

Rend ( Le ft )

Unit P

( R i g ht

Ty pic

(Middl

Ty pic

(Middl

Ty pic

(Middl

14

FLUID CURRENTS

ering

Plan

t)

cal Studio Unit

l e 1 st )

cal 1b Unit

le 2nd)

cal 2b Unit

l e 3 rd )

15

FLUID CURRENTS

SECTION

Residential Units

Level 16

Residential Units

Level 15

Residential Units

Level 14

Residential Units

Level 13

Public Common: Cafe

Level 12

Public Common: Bar

Level 10

Public Common: Ktichen

Level 9

Public Common: Ktichen

Level 8

Residential Units

Level 7

Residential Units

Level 6

Residential Units

Level 5

Residential Units

Level 4

Public Common

Level 3

Public Common

Level 2 Public Common Level 1 Public Common: Cafe Mezzanine Food Truck Plaza Ground Level

Test Kitchen Level B1

Basement Level B2

THE

EMBRACE

UN-SHYING

THE

Upenn

Core

2023

ICA Studio

The International Contemporary Art Museum of Philadelphia is dedicated to celebrating independent artists, yet its architectural presence remains understated within the Penn community.

Inspired by the theme of minority representation, this project reimagines the building as an homage to the female body. Public areas encourage vibrant interaction and celebration, offering open, transparent zones for communal engagement and exhibitions. In contrast, more intimate, private spaces are carefully designed for reflective and personal art viewing, fostering deeper connections with the artwork. The design not only celebrates femininity but also amplifies the visibility of both the museum and the artists it champions, bringing vibrant energy and heightened exposure to their work.

Instructor: Laia Mogas-Soldevila Location: ICA, Philadelphia, PA Individual Project, Fall 2023

THE EMBRACE

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THE EMBRACE

The building’s design emphasiz separation of spaces, reflecting ture of the female body—bot intimate. The exterior of the b its transparent, flowing surface ically “unshys” the body. Draw fluidity and openness of water, of light and translucency celeb ty, projecting a sense of empow vibrancy to the surrounding co

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zes a dynamic the dual nath open and building, with es, unapologetwing from the the interplay brates visibiliwerment and ommunity. As

THE EMBRACE

6

1

5

2

1’=1/16”

1. Art Corridor 2. Exhibition Space 3. Office 4. Meditation 2nd Floor 5. Sculpture Garden

3

6. Outdoor Resting Area 7. Bookstore 4 7

4

3

2

1’=1/16”

1. Interactive Classroom 2. Art Corridor 3. Sculpture Garden 4. Outdoor Resting Area

1

shown in the plans, the addition also introduces vibrant public commons that enhance the museum’s publicness, including a theater for performances and screenings, a bookshop for art and cultural exploration, and a café as a social gathering space. These elements foster a sense of community, interaction, and cultural engagement, transforming the museum into a lively hub of activity and at the same time, un-shying it.

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THE EMBRACE

The fluid, curvilinear walls withi the museum create private spa es for intimate art viewing. The soft, undulating forms and warm nuanced colors evoke a sense closeness and protection, invitin visitors into a deeply personal e gagement with the artwork. The private areas, resembling the com forting embrace of a mother’s wom offer a sanctuary for reflection an introspection.

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THE EMBRACE

in aceir m, of ng enese mmb, nd

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T

O

W

To w e r s Upenn

E

R

S

Exhibitions 2023

Core

Studio

This form, rooted in an inward-looking approach, embodies humility and introspection through its architecture. The design draws on the theme of a lighthouse, reimagining it with a focus on complexity and layered meaning. Lights, fabric, and strings are utilized to conceptualize the tower as a composition of “ frames,” “ fabric,” and “ joints.”

Detachable frames envelop the tower, housing various fabrics, including athletic mesh, poly mesh, and poly chiffon. Inside, a network of strings forms intricate connections, engaging with the exterior through dynamic lighting effects that imbue the structure with a renewed material presence. The interplay of textures from these diverse elements redefines the lighthouse, presenting not just an outward glow but also a profound internal depth.

Instructor: Laia Mogas-Soldevila Location: ICA, Philadelphia, PA Team: Johnathan Bonezzi, Leean Li, Lisa Liu, Jiapeng Sun Role in Team: Drawings, Rendering

TOWERS

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TOWERS

26

TOWERS

27

TOWERS

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TOWERS

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E L E VAT E D

VILLAGE

To w e r s

Exhibitions

Upenn 2023 Core 4 010 Studio This project proposes a vibrant urban village in Germantown, integrating public and private spaces through a perforated plinth. Utilizing two sites at Germantown Avenue and Coulter Street, the design features mixed-use spaces, blending residential and commercial zones. Inspired by surrounding architectural language, the project reinterprets rowhouse forms with slanted roofs and varied materials, fostering a cohesive identity. Clustered residential units create village-like courtyards, while commercial areas activate street life. The perforated platform bridges realms, promoting community interaction. With diverse housing options and dynamic public spaces, the project aims to enrich Germantown’s social fabric and architectural legacy.

Instructor: Rashida Ng, Brian Szymanik Location: St. Luke’s Episcopal Church, Philadelphia, PA Team: Sarah Borders, Natalie Kung, Leean Li Role in Team: Plan and Section Drawings

ELEVATED VILAGE

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ELEVATED VILLAGE

Level 1

Church Campus Site

Level 2

Church Campus Site

Level 1

Germantown Ave. Site

The residential plans emphasize a village-like arrangement of clustered units, fostering community interaction through shared courtyards. Organized across a perforated plinth, the plans differentiate public and private realms while encouraging connectiv includes diverse unit types—studio lofts, 1BR, 2BR, and 3BR apartments—tailored for various household sizes. Outdoor spaces, and courtyards, enhance natural light and resident well-being. The design prioritizes density, proximity, and vibrant commun Germantown’s urban fabric.

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32/ Left

ELEVATED VILLAGE

Level 2

Germantown Ave. Site

Level 3

Germantown Ave. Site

green spaces and vity. Each cluster , such as balconies nal living within

33

Right

/33

ELEVATED VILLAGE

Level 1

Level 2

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ELEVATED VILLAGE

Building Sec tion ( To p Le ft )

Rendering of Ty pical Room Interior ( To p R i g ht )

Ty pical 2-Stor y Unit Plan ( B o t to m Le ft )

Mas sing A xonometric ( B o t to m R i g ht )

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OTHER

WORKS

Museum Plan Stud y ( Le ft )

Wall Sec tions Drawings ( To p R i g ht )

Facade E xploded A xonometric (Middle)

Ele vations ( B o t to m Le ft )

Wall Sec tion Detail ( B o t to m R i g ht )

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OTHER WORKS

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OTHER WORKS

OTHER

WORKS

Introspect Study

F o rma l stu d y o f h u m i l i t y a n d 3 D -p r i nte d p a r t .

The project begins wit rived from a convention where a 3D-printed sma inserted into the mold an soap. The form of the so sihouette, where the th to suggest a sense of i through its drastic turn. the materiality of the stud interplay between the rig form and the translucen The larger form features curves inspired by the p interplay between the ex reflects the concept of in the smaller component and visually “examined” underscoring the theme and inward focus.

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OTHER WORKS

y, us i n g c aste d so a p

th geometries denal pipe component, aller component is nd then casted with oap follows curved hin “neck” is able inward-lookingness . At the same time, dy creates a layered gid, opaque printed nt, softly hued soap. intricate folds and pipe geometry. This xterior and interior ntrospection, with embedded within ” by the larger form, e of self-reflection

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THANK YOU

TO BE CONTINUED..

Annan “Leean” L i Master of Architec ture , 2023-2025