from iconic buildings to ordinary houses, tianzhou yang captures architecture's boundaries

ephemeral Eternity explores the boundaries of architecture

Ephemeral Eternity is a series of images by architectural photographer Tianzhou Yang, showcased in a project that explores the fluid boundaries of architecture. The collection includes a diverse range of structures, from renowned masterpieces to ordinary residences and abandoned buildings. The images capture moments where these structures intersect with the symbolic horizon of eternity, illustrating how the convergence of time, space, and memory transforms human-made structures into profound architectural expressions. This series invites viewers to reconsider the essence of architecture, revealing its dynamic and often blurred boundaries. The true nature of architecture is thus uncovered in its relationship with infinite time, seen not only in its design and construction but also in its eventual ruin.

Eveux, France, 2019 | all images by Tianzhou Yang – TJAP

Tianzhou Yang captures moments of timelessness in architecture

For centuries, defining architecture has been a complex challenge. Instead of elaborate definitions, Tianzhou Yang offers a poetic expression: architecture is the horizon where the earth and sky meet. The essence of architecture lies in this pursuit of forever-lasting structures—whether through material, spirit, or memory. European cathedrals, made of stone, endure for millennia; Japan’s Ise Shrine is continuously dismantled and rebuilt; Chinese gardens and pavilions are preserved in extensive literary works. Yet, despite their endurance, all these elements eventually fade, highlighting the elusive nature of eternity.

Architecture’s timelessness is not found in every moment but rather in specific instances of human interaction. Even the most celebrated buildings are truly architectural only at certain times, while ordinary structures can have their extraordinary moments. ‘A complete Acropolis might pale in comparison to its current ruins, and the finished Sagrada Familia may not inspire as much awe as it did during its century-long construction period. Thus, the boundaries of architecture are fluid. Even the most renowned buildings are only truly architectural at certain times, while the most ordinary structures can have their extraordinary moments.‘ notes the London-based photographer. ‘The abandoned frames on the plains, the obscure water towers in deserts, the secluded houses in mountains and by the sea, may at some moment approach eternity, marking humanity’s journey towards the distant horizon with small yet infinitely potent symbols.’ 

Athens, Greece, 2023

Kokkinogia, Mani, Greece, 2023

Charakas, Greece, 2023

Chivelstone, England, UK, 2024

the collection captures a range of structures, from renowned masterpieces to abandoned buildings

Kokkinogia, Mani, Greece, 2023

Hunyuan, Shanxi, China, 2023

Vals, Switzerland, 2019

Dungeness, England, UK, 2021

Sumvitg, Switzerland, 2019

project info:

name: Ephemeral Eternity
photographer: Tianzhou Yang – TJAP | @vascoytz113

designboom has received this project from our DIY submissions feature, where we welcome our readers to submit their own work for publication. see more project submissions from our readers here.

edited by: thomai tsimpou | designboom