PAO was founded in 2010 by James Shen, He Zhe, and Zang Feng, as a multi-disciplinary art and design practice focused on work that fosters social interaction and diverse perspectives. Our plugin architecture is inspired by architectural concepts from the 1960s, most notably Archigram's Plug-in City, and embodies the desire for flexibility in what we build and how we practice as architects. ”Plugin” refers to a component that adds new features to an existing program, the act of plugging into found structural conditions within existing communities, by means of a prefabricated building system that can be mass-produced and customized. 

The Plugin House projects presented here, in book and in exhibition, vastly differ in their respective contexts, reflecting very specific conditions such as the accelerating economic inequality and social, geographic, and regulatory fragmentation. We do not claim to provide a definitive solution to our housing problems, but rather present an integral innovative effort involving policymaking, financial tools, and public support. We also hope to bridge the gap between China and the U.S. through finding commonality in the housing crisis — a universal urban concern that transcends socio-political differences.

Many of the Plugin House projects we show here are situated in disadvantaged communities, from Beijing's historic hutongs (narrow alley ways lined with courtyard houses) to homeless encampments in Austin, Texas. Plugin architecture has allowed us to cultivate our interest in engaging more directly with the people our work affects, and to focus on positive social impact. Through our Plugin House work we have ventured beyond the typical realm of architectural practice to work hands-on with building and manufacturing, embracing diverse perspectives from other disciplines, and diligently empathizing with individuals’ unique circumstances.

How can an architectural practice have a positive social impact in today's neoliberal economy? Our experience working in places where change happens at breakneck speed has left us accustomed to relying on instinct. We have little time for processing and contemplation, only room for reaction. Plugin House projects are the results of being led by our curiosities rather than conscious planning. It is a story of trial and error, marked by questionable successes but considerable new insights. This compendium is a reflection on the experiences we have gathered, and has been created in the hope that our work can further contribute to improving the state of housing today.