Honored by Both Jury and Public for Socially driven Housing Project

At the 13th Annual Architizer A+Awards—billed as the world’s largest and most influential architectural honors—Chinese architect Xuefeng Li, the founder of Everest Group, has achieved a rare double triumph. Her project, "Beacon House", earned both the Jury Award and the Popular Choice Award in the Multi-Unit Housing (S <10 Floors) category. Selected from over 4,000 entries spanning more than 80 countries, the recognition places Li among the world’s top architectural voices.

The elevated pathway transforms into a dynamic public space where residents can stay active and engage in conversation
Photo credit: Xuefeng Li

Li impressed a panel of over 250 industry experts while also garnering support from millions of public voters, highlighting her broad appeal across professional and popular audiences. This dual victory reflects her exceptional ability to unite high design standards with deep social relevance.

Built upon the remains of an abandoned mill, the building serves as a powerful metaphor for rebirth.
Photo credit: Xuefeng Li

Beacon House addresses one of the most pressing urban challenges: homelessness. Beyond transitional housing, the project incorporates social support services and restorative design strategies aimed at reintegration. Its most iconic feature—a spiraling form that reaches toward the city skyline—not only enhances views but symbolizes personal and communal uplift. A public pathway leads to a rooftop garden, ensuring access to nature for all residents, and embodying the project’s core philosophy: dignity through design.

The architecture becomes a beacon and a symbol of encouragement, inspiring people to get back on their feet.
Photo credit: Xuefeng Li

With this prestigious double win, Li’s work reinforces the potential of architecture as both an aesthetic and humanitarian force. Beacon House is more than a building; it’s a statement on inclusion, resilience, and the transformative power of thoughtful design.

Everest Group

Everest Group is a U.S.-registered design practice founded by award-winning designer Xuefeng Li. The firm specializes in high-end residential, hospitality, and retail projects worldwide, delivering work that blends futuristic innovation with an elegant Eastern sensibility. With experience spanning luxury custom homes in California, large-scale resorts, and internationally recognized developments, Everest Group is known for its bold, contemporary aesthetic and meticulous attention to detail. The studio’s portfolio reflects a commitment to design excellence, sustainability, and creating spaces that evoke both functionality and emotion.