Architecture, Spatial Tectonics & Speculative Systems
“By deconstructing and reconstructing Gothic and Cyberpunk architectural languages and their opposing spatial logics through drawing, physical modeling, and AI-assisted visual experiments, this project explores how meaning can emerge between structure and chaos.”
Gothic-Punk: A Spatial Experiment
Extracting skeletal tectonics from medieval cathedrals and hybridizing them with industrial cyberpunk fragmentation, tension cords, and prismatic sheets.
Skin & Structure Tectonics
Derek investigates the dialectic between structural exoskeleton and translucent skin. In Gothic-Punk, flying buttresses are abstracted into geometric timber ribs and tensile cords that suspend chromatic filter plates.
- Prototype Iteration 1–3: 3 physical scale model iterations refining tensile joints
- Tracing Paper & AI Blending: Hybridizing hand sketches with Midjourney prompts for spatial depth
- Digital Concept Art: Drawing thematic inspiration from Elden Ring, Dune, and Blade Runner
7-Stage Light & Shadow Projections
Architecture lives in the breath of shadow. Derek analyzed geometric shadows and prismatic projections cast by the model under 7 distinct light angles and intensities.
Architectural Sculpture Auctioned for Cancer Research
“A visionary fusion of Gothic spirituality and cyberpunk futurism, Gothic-Punk explores how architecture can express emotion, identity, and human connection in an increasingly technological world.”
At the 2026 New England Music Festival Charity Gala ('Where Music Meets AI, Hope Finds a Voice'), Derek's physical Gothic-Punk sculpture was auctioned to raise funds supporting cancer research.
Broadcast across Greater Boston by Boston Asian Radio & TV (BARTV) news, featuring Derek Liu (Grade 11, Lexington High School) and his architectural auction piece at 3:04.
Monograph: Awakening Architecture: Beyond Cyberpunk
Authored by Yuchen Liu. An architectural theoretical monograph exploring post-industrial urban space, spiritual sanctuary, and human identity.
Theoretical Core & Chapters
Synthesizing cinematic spatial languages with architectural history, Derek argues that speculative futures require more than utilitarian efficiency—they demand spatial transcendence.
The book formalizes the concept of 'Awakening Space'—breaking synthetic alienation through tectonic translucency and poetic shadow control.
Classical Cathedrals: Hand Drawings & Tectonics
Rigorous ink line studies and spatial perspective drawings dissecting masonry thrust lines, vaulting bays, and flying buttresses.
York Minster: Facade
Pen and ink analysis of vertical tower tracery.
St. Vitus: Nave
Rib vaulting system and vertical perspective thrust.
York Minster: Buttress
Tectonic dissection of lateral thrust transmission.
Aerial Perspective: Historic Eaves & Coastal Topography
Aerial spatial documentation using DJI Air 3 drone, captured with real geographic telemetry and optical metadata.
Yuchen Liu: Selected Architecture Portfolio (9 Spreads)
Complete summer school architecture application document (2025–2026). Flip through high-resolution spreads online or download the full PDF below.
Download Official High-Resolution Portfolio PDF (6.2 MB)
Contains all 9 pages of vector typography, concept drawings, and photographic plates for offline admission review.
Selected Design Journey & Works (2025–2026)
Authored by Yuchen Liu · High-Res Viewport · Click to inspect
