Alright – so today we’ve got the honor of introducing you to TONGTONG ZHANG. We think you’ll enjoy our conversation, we’ve shared it below.
TONGTONG, we’re so excited for our community to get to know you and learn from your journey and the wisdom you’ve acquired over time. Let’s kick things off with a discussion on self-confidence and self-esteem. How did you develop yours?
My self-confidence as a landscape architect is derived from three key sources.
First, it stems from the hard work I have dedicated to my profession. Over the past decade as both a student and practitioner, I have amassed extensive knowledge, continually updating myself with the latest trends and innovations. This solid foundation of learning underpins my self-assurance and equips me to tackle complex projects with a depth of understanding and expertise.
Second, I always ensure I am well-prepared. For any important occasion, I meticulously perform my due diligence, thoroughly understanding the relevant details and background. This comprehensive preparation allows me to approach these events with peace of mind and confidence.
Third, I maintain an open and receptive mindset. When I encounter individuals who are more advanced in their careers, I appreciate their expertise without feeling competitive. This humility enables me to learn from their experiences and integrate their insights into my own practice. When faced with challenges beyond my professional scope, I view them as valuable learning opportunities rather than insurmountable obstacles. Embracing these experiences broadens my horizons and enhances my adaptability. I accept that there is always more to learn in this vast world, and this acknowledgment only strengthens my self-esteem.
In summary, my self-confidence is built on a foundation of hard work, thorough preparation, and an open-minded approach to learning. These elements collectively empower me to navigate my career with resilience and assurance, constantly striving to elevate my practice and contribute meaningfully to the field of landscape architecture.
Thanks, so before we move on maybe you can share a bit more about yourself?
I work as a landscape architect, and my job involves crafting diverse outdoor spaces, ranging from residential gardens to parks, plazas, or even a coastal region and/or expansive urban district.
I believe Landscape Architecture is a profession with the power to positively transform the world, seamlessly blending aesthetics with responsibility. It infuses beauty into everyday environments, introduces greenery into concrete jungles, and provides a breath of fresh air in the hustle of city life. Moreover, it stands at the forefront of addressing climate change. A great landscape design must not only be aesthetically pleasing but also socially and environmentally responsible, catering to the needs of both the immediate community it serves and the broader global context.
I take great pride in having contributed to projects spanning the globe—across the States, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, Europe, and beyond. Some of these projects have been recognized with awards:) The scales of these projects also vary greatly; at one point, we were conceptualizing a new city in China! What makes my work particularly fulfilling is that it seamlessly aligns with my personal quest. Each project in a different country or city becomes an opportunity to delve into unique geographies, engage with diverse cultures, and connect with the locals. It’s more than just a job; it’s an extension of my lifelong pursuit.
Looking back, what do you think were the three qualities, skills, or areas of knowledge that were most impactful in your journey? What advice do you have for folks who are early in their journey in terms of how they can best develop or improve on these?
From my perspective, curiosity is the most crucial quality for a designer. It serves as the foundation for creativity. By maintaining a pair of fresh eyes and embracing the odd and absurd, I keep my mind flexible. Asking “Why?” initiates the learning process, and often, unconventional design solutions emerge from inspirations seemingly unrelated to the project. Keeping an open mind and being eager to ask random questions helps you find connections that others might overlook.
Another vital quality is striving for excellence. Regardless of the task’s size, always consider if you can make even the smallest improvement. These incremental steps accumulate over time, and looking back after several years, you’ll be amazed at the progress you’ve made.
The third essential quality is taking immediate action. Avoid making negative assumptions before you start working, as nothing can be accomplished without taking the first step. Conversely, with persistence and time, anything can be achieved. This approach embodies the principle that action is the antidote to fear and uncertainty. By starting with small, manageable tasks, you build momentum and confidence.
In summary, curiosity, striving for excellence, and taking immediate action are three interrelated qualities. Curiosity drives innovation and keeps your mind open to new possibilities. Striving for excellence ensures that you are constantly improving and setting high standards. Taking immediate action translates ideas into reality and maintains the momentum needed for continuous growth and achievement. Together, these qualities form a robust framework for professional and personal development, empowering you to navigate the challenges and opportunities in the dynamic world of design.
How can folks who want to work with you connect?
I am seeking landscape architects, architects, and urban designers to join forces for international design competitions. Let’s share creative solutions and aim for the highest achievements. If you are passionate about design, innovative, and eager to go beyond routine work, you are invited to collaborate! I continuously search for competitions that align with my interests in large-scale, resiliency-focused landscape design, and I encourage you to share any opportunities you come across as well! Message me @ LinkedIn or Instagram and we’ll go from there!
Contact Info:
- Website: https://www.sherlyzhang.com/
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherlyzhg/?hl=en
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tongtong-sherly-zhang-9162397b/
