Back in architecture school, I wasn’t the student with bold, boundary-pushing ideas. The designs that fascinated me—big, unconventional, and daring—weren’t the ones I created. My work was often called ‘safe’—functional, practical, and maybe a bit too conventional. At the time, I saw that as a weakness.
I remember a class discussion on form follows function versus function follows form. We debated which idea we aligned with, but I could never fully commit to one side. Now, with over 15 years of experience, I realize I didn’t have to. My approach has never been about sticking to one philosophy. Instead, I focus on creating spaces that feel connected and offer an experience.
The idea that form follows function was coined by Louis Sullivan, meaning a building’s shape should reflect its purpose. On the other hand, function follows form suggests that aesthetics can lead, with function coming afterward. Both ideas have shaped architecture, but neither fully defines how I work.
I aim for a balance where beauty and practicality exist together.
I take inspiration from architects like Frank Lloyd Wright, whose organic designs flowed naturally with their surroundings, and Louis Kahn, whose use of light and materials turned buildings into art. Their work reminds me that every space has a story, and it’s up to us as designers to craft that story in a way that resonates with the people who use it.
Some of my most challenging projects weren’t on beautiful landscapes, but on small urban lots surrounded by busy streets. In those projects, the challenge wasn’t just about making the most of the space—it was about creating a peaceful escape in the middle of the chaos. I’ve learned that the most transformative designs often come from tough environments. The way light moves through a space or how a corner invites exploration is what makes a space more than just functional—it makes it an experience.
One early project that sticks with me was a small urban site, surrounded by tall buildings and constant noise. There was no scenic view, no forest, no lake—just a blank lot in a busy neighborhood. But the challenge was what made it interesting. Using natural light, designing for movement, and creating a sense of calm within that limited space became the key to transforming it.
As I look back, I realize that form and function have to work together and adapt to each project. Whether it’s a quiet, scenic spot or a crowded urban lot, every project requires a balance between beauty and practical solutions. When you strike that balance, you create spaces that people don’t just use—they experience them, and they want to return.
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