By CHEN Chunyou

Dutch architect Ole Bouman had his incredible encounter with the East when he visited Dunhuang, a small city in northwestern China with an immense treasure trove. "I had a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to visit the Mogao Grottoes at dusk, with just the sound of birds accompanying me in my encounter with this incredible legacy of Buddhism in China," Bouman told Science and Technology Daily.

▲ Professor Ole Bouman at the Great Wall of the Han Dynasty in Dunhuang, Gansu province, northwest China. (COURTESY PHOTO)

The Mogao Grottoes, located along the ancient Silk Road, house a remarkable collection of Buddhist art, sculptures, and manuscripts.

Bouman, now a professor at the College of Architecture and Urban Planning of Tongji University in Shanghai, undertook a cycling journey in October 2023 to mark the 10th anniversary of the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI). Starting from Amsterdam, he crossed 18 countries over nearly 11,000 kilometers, arriving in Shanghai in July this year—an odyssey he described as a dialogue between West and East.

For the 63-year-old architect, cycling is a way to engage with the world. His fascination began at age eight with his first bicycle, sparking a lifelong passion for exploration. With academic training in history and architecture, he values architecture as a tangible reality that tests theoretical assumptions.

Architecture as shaper of lifestyles

Bouman first came to Shanghai in 2005 and eventually settled in China in 2015, drawn by its practical approach to knowledge. “I'm particularly attracted by the Chinese respect for knowledge as a matter of fact, rather than hypothesis,” he said.

Since 2022, he has taught at Tongji University, where he emphasizes architecture’s role in shaping future lifestyles. He argues that redefining architecture beyond buildings—toward broader social challenges—can lead to transformative practices and new aesthetics.

“China, with its strong government-led economic model, has a special responsibility and opportunity to pioneer this new architectural paradigm,” Bouman noted.

BRI's magic on infrastructure

Traveling through multiple BRI partner countries, Bouman observed significant improvements in infrastructure. He highlighted projects in Kyrgyzstan’s Karakol region, where Chinese-led initiatives have accelerated modernization while respecting local traditions.

“The legacy of the ancient Silk Road offers a historical foundation for ensuring the BRI strengthens regional identities rather than diluting them,” he said, emphasizing cultural preservation and peaceful development.

“By seeing a bigger picture, we can act upon a bigger scale.”

Architecture as a bridge

During his journey, Bouman maintained close contact with his students, exchanging insights and visiting sites they recommended. “In one way, I was the teacher; in another, they were my guide—a nice balance between learning and teaching,” he said.

From ancient trade routes to modern cities, he came to see architecture not just as construction, but as a force for social connection—bridging cultures, eras, and humanity with nature.

“In each city, I saw the potential for architecture to build bridges—not only structures. It is this vision I hope to inspire in the next generation,” Bouman said.

Back in Shanghai, he hosted an exhibition showcasing the folk customs, cultural heritage, architectural landmarks, and natural landscapes encountered on his journey.

To aspiring architects, his advice is clear: “Engage with the full spectrum of architectural practice—from materials science to urban policy. Experiment boldly. The future of architecture lies in our ability to adapt, innovate, and serve society. Every challenge is an opportunity to redefine what architecture can achieve.”

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Editor | SONG Ziyan

Supervisor| FANG Linlin