From Zero to Skyscrapers: Architect Gilbert Yu Reveals 3 Lessons Every Future Designer Must Learn

Celebrated architect and developer Gilbert Yu is inspiring the next generation of architects through his newly launched biography, The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu, authored by award-winning journalist Iris Gonzales.

The book traces Yu’s journey from the modest beginnings of a sari-sari store owner’s son in Manila to becoming one of the country’s most prominent architects and developers. With more than three decades of practice and landmark contributions to Bonifacio Global City’s skyline, Yu distills his career into three essential lessons for aspiring architects.

Lesson 1: Architecture goes beyond design

“Architecture is not just about designing structures—it’s about building lives,” Yu emphasized. “Every project must have purpose, be created with excellence, and built to last.”

Lesson 2: Architects must understand business

Yu stresses the importance of financial literacy and market awareness in the profession. “Architects must also be development consultants, not just designers,” he said, calling on schools to integrate entrepreneurship into architectural education.

Lesson 3: Architects must be future-ready

Great architecture, Yu notes, must anticipate shifts in technology, lifestyles, and urban environments, ensuring relevance for generations to come.

Central to his philosophy is his mantra: “Zero plus zero plus zero equals 100.” With no initial resources, knowledge, or experience, Yu persevered to build landmark projects that stand today as symbols of resilience and vision.

About the Book

The Life and Adventures of Architect Gilbert Yu presents an intimate account of Yu’s life—his challenges, triumphs, and the values that guided his work. It serves as a timeless blueprint for architects, entrepreneurs, and dreamers alike.

About Architect Gilbert Yu

Licensed in 1970, Architect Gilbert Yu co-founded G&W Architects, which pioneered landmark residential towers in Bonifacio Global City, including Sapphire Residences, Kensington Place, Grand Hamptons, and Blue Sapphire. Throughout his career, he has been an advocate for affordable housing, high construction standards, and consumer protection in Philippine real estate.

About the Author

Iris Gonzales is a journalist and columnist for The Philippine Star. She writes Eyes Wide Open, a thrice-weekly opinion column on business and politics. A graduate of the University of the Philippines College of Mass Communication, she earned her master’s degree in journalism as a Konrad Adenauer Fellow at Ateneo de Manila University.