We were lucky to catch up with WEI QIU recently and have shared our conversation below.
WEI, we’re thrilled to have you on our platform and we think there is so much folks can learn from you and your story. Something that matters deeply to us is living a life and leading a career filled with purpose and so let’s start by chatting about how you found your purpose.
Venturing alone to study architecture in both Singapore and the United States ignited a transformative journey that not only shaped my personal growth but also crystalized my purpose within the realm of design.
Amidst Singapore’s multicultural tapestry, I discovered architecture’s role in harmonizing diverse influences. This experience revealed that my purpose was to design spaces that transcend boundaries, fostering unity among different cultures and lifestyles.
Transitioning to the US, I encountered a design landscape emphasizing innovation and inclusivity. This compelled me to reevaluate my identity and convictions. Engaging with diverse design philosophies and people underscored my purpose: to weave stories through architecture, creating spaces that encapsulate culture, history, and human connections.
This journey solidified my purpose: to bridge architectural styles between East and West. I recognized the importance of infusing designs with cultural insights, and crafting spaces that seamlessly meld global inspirations. My purpose resided in shaping environments that serve function while encapsulating the narratives of their inhabitants.
Leaving my homeland for foreign design landscapes was more than academic; it was an unveiling of my purpose. Through architecture, I discovered a means to connect cultures, transpose stories into spaces, and contribute to our interconnected world.
This odyssey, spanning continents and design paradigms, has charted my purpose. As I forge ahead in architecture, I am driven to craft environments that resonate, narrate, and harmonize – a testament to the interplay of personal exploration, design innovation, and purposeful existence.
Great, so let’s take a few minutes and cover your story. What should folks know about you and what you do?
Embracing the dual role of an architectural designer at Montalba Architects and a part-time instructor at UCLA AUD is a uniquely fulfilling journey that weaves together the realms of creativity, innovation, and mentorship. This dual commitment allows me to continuously evolve as a designer while contributing to the growth of future architects.
As an architectural designer at Montalba Architects, I am privileged to be a part of a dynamic team that pushes the boundaries of design excellence. Collaborating with talented colleagues, I am immersed in projects that range from visionary commercial spaces to elegant residential designs. The studio’s commitment to innovation and attention to detail nurtures my creativity, enabling me to translate concepts into tangible, aesthetically pleasing structures that positively impact communities and the built environment.
Simultaneously, my role as a design instructor at UCLA allows me to share my passion for architecture with eager minds. Guiding students through the intricate process of architectural creation is a gratifying experience. It’s incredibly rewarding to witness their growth as they grasp design principles, develop their unique design voices, and transform theoretical ideas into practical solutions. The academic environment at UCLA fosters an atmosphere of learning, exploration, and diverse perspectives, further enriching my own understanding of architecture.
There is so much advice out there about all the different skills and qualities folks need to develop in order to succeed in today’s highly competitive environment and often it can feel overwhelming. So, if we had to break it down to just the three that matter most, which three skills or qualities would you focus on?
Purpose- Know what you are doing and commit to it Persistence- Practice what you are doing over and over
People- Listen to others, work with others and learn from others
Tell us what your ideal client would be like?
In the realm of architectural design, an ideal client embodies a deep appreciation for the intricate interplay of creativity and effort that designers invest in each project. This client recognizes that architecture is more than just a collection of structures; it’s an artistic expression that requires a fusion of vision, skill, and innovation.
The ideal client places a high value on the designer’s expertise and treats the design process as a collaborative journey. They understand that the best results emerge when both client and designer engage in a dialogue where ideas are shared openly, and feedback is constructive. This atmosphere of mutual respect cultivates a space where innovative concepts can flourish.
In essence, the synergy between an architect and their ideal client is rooted in a profound respect for the artistic endeavor that architecture represents. Through this respect, they coalesce their visions, creating spaces that are not only functional but also inspire and resonate with those who inhabit them.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: @wei.qiu.arch
- Linkedin: WEI QIU
