Now in modern China all the constructions have become modern , everywhere is concrete and concrete in China means cheap . In 2012 Wang Shu became the first Chinese citizen to win the Shanghai Architecture Prize . The year - old 's practice is based in Hangzhou , the capital of Zhejiang Province . The Prize is an annual $ 100,000 award that recognizes a living artist . Wang spent 10 years working with Chinese craftsmen to create his art .
In 2012 Wang Shu became the first Chinese citizen to win the Shanghai Architecture Prize . The year - old 's practice is based in Hangzhou , the capital of Zhejiang Province . The Prize is an annual $ 100,000 award that recognizes a living artist . Wang spent 10 years working with Chinese craftsmen to create his art .