b'MUDD 25 - Urban Intensity l Urban Design - International StudioSTUDENT EXPERIENCEThe Hangzhou International Studio was an inspiring trip for all Chinese and non-Chinese students as it demonstrated the historical value of the Grand Canal and illustrated the possibilities that exist to harmonize the past with the future. From this studio, we gained experience and acquired new methods that we can explore in our careers. The activities hosted by Zhejiang University showcased a city of vitality with precious historical and industrial value. Chinese students were reintroduced to this familiar city by experiencing it through a foreigners view-point. We could see the existing traditional awareness collide with new visions for the city. Throughout the entire studio, the most outstanding architects and famous attractions were visited and we saw how new projects were blended into the city and we were able to learn the principles of the designs. The Zhejiang City Planning Museum illustrated the evolution of the city across different periods of history and showed how the current city is formed. By visiting the various developments and neighbourhoods of the city we were inspired by bold new design concepts and ideas. All the experiences deepened our understanding and improved our professional skills.The cooperation with the Zhejiang University students also contributed to our abilities and widened our horizons. Though most of the students shared a similar cultural background, the different education experiences in Australia and China proved to be a positive for everyone. UNSW students mainly came from urban design, landscape or city planning backgrounds, while most Zhejiang University students were majors in architecture. The different strengths lead to varying approaches and some arguments arose with contradictory opinions and priorities. MUDD students focused on the scale of design at a city size while some of the ZJU students struggled with the height of stairs. However, we all eventually realised and understood the efforts and ideas that everyone was offering. All the arguments, negotiation and lessons learned from each other not only polished our knowledge but also strengthened the relationships. The final jury presentation was proof of the success of this cooperation.The Hangzhou International Studio and our time with Zhejiang University was a valuable and memorable part of our MUDD experience. It enhanced our knowledge and was inspirational in refining our skills and passion for making better cities.- Guo Qikai (William)150P6-20200302-OTHERS.indd 7 2020/3/6 0:02:54'