Meet Chieh-Ting Chuang | Architectural Designer

We had the good fortune of connecting with Chieh-Ting Chuang and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Chieh-Ting, what do you attribute your success to?
The most important factor behind my success as an architectural designer is my expertise in sustainable design, specifically my use of biomimicry and exploration of innovative building materials such as mass timber. I have demonstrated a strong commitment to promoting environmental awareness and social responsibility in my community work and professional projects. Additionally, my incorporation of local culture and history into my designs showcases my passion for creating innovative solutions that positively impact users and the surrounding environment while adapting to their culture. My diverse skill set, passion for design, and experience set me apart from others in the field.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
As an architectural designer with a passion for cultural sensitivity, I have always been fascinated by the diverse cultures and communities of Los Angeles. Having grown up in Taiwan, I was exposed to the rich cultural heritage of my homeland, and arriving in LA was a sensory overload of diverse experiences and people. As I explored the city, I was drawn to the familiar feeling of Chinatown, and I embarked on a project to showcase the cultural heritage of this community through architecture.

My project, #CHINATOWN@HOME, was born out of my observations and research on the culture, history, and construction and development of LA’s Chinatown. I wanted to create an innovative project that would utilize modern technologies such as machine learning, photogrammetry, and film techniques to create a fictional video game that would connect my research of the culture with interactive architecture representations. This was an opportunity to celebrate the cultural heritage of the local community and bridge the public to Chinese American’s endeavor to preserve their heritage.

Through this project, I was able to showcase the often-overlooked cultural identity of Los Angeles’ Chinatown and demonstrate how architecture can be used to celebrate and preserve the culture of a community. It was an exciting and rewarding experience to be able to use my skills and expertise to make a positive impact on the local community.

My passion for cultural sensitivity and innovative design allows me to explore new ways of creating architecture that celebrates the unique cultural heritage of diverse communities. Through my work, I hope to continue to showcase the importance of preserving cultural identities and promoting diversity in our built environment.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
Definitely Chinatown in Los Angeles! Chinatown in Los Angeles is one of my favorite places to experience the rich cultural diversity of the city. From the culinary delights to the cultural activities, there’s something for everyone to enjoy.

One of my top recommendations is to visit Pearl River Deli and try their famous pork chop bun. It’s one of my favorite dishes in the restaurant and a must-try when visiting Chinatown. Additionally, be sure to try the MSG latte from Thank You café, which is a unique blend of Asian spices and coffee.

Another spot worth visiting is Sesame LA, which features a selection of carefully curated Asian products from around Los Angeles. It’s a great place to explore the local culture and find unique souvenirs.

For a more spiritual experience, Thien Hau Temple is a beautiful religious hub that is steeped in culture and history. The architecture and design of the temple are breathtaking, and it’s a wonderful place to learn more about the local community’s religious traditions.

If you’re looking for a relaxing afternoon, Steep LA is a great spot to enjoy a fresh cup of tea from Taiwan and some amazing bites. The tea selection is impressive, and the atmosphere is peaceful and serene.

Finally, if you’re lucky enough to be in Chinatown during the summer months, don’t miss out on the Chinatown Summer Nights. It’s an amazing event filled with music, art, and delicious food. The plaza is packed with people, and it’s a great opportunity to soak up the vibrant atmosphere of this amazing community.

Chinatown in Los Angeles is a true gem that offers an incredible cultural experience. From the delicious food to the unique cultural activities, it’s a place that everyone should visit at least once.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am incredibly grateful for the unwavering support and love that my family has shown me throughout my life. They have provided me with an open-minded education that has allowed me to explore my interests and develop my personality. Their encouragement to face challenges head-on has given me the courage to pursue my dreams, including my passion for architecture. I remember as a child, my family was always amazed by my interest in crafting and building my own dollhouses. This small interest led to a memorable trip to Italy, the birthplace of architecture, where I was able to gain a deeper understanding and appreciation for the field. These experiences have helped me grow both personally and professionally, providing me with a strong foundation of knowledge and skills that have proven invaluable in my career. Without the love and support of my family, I would not be where I am today. Their belief in me has inspired me to reach for the stars and has been a constant source of motivation in my journey towards success.

Website: https://chiehtingch.myportfolio.com/work

Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chinatownathome/

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/jt-chieh-ting-chuang-851a6b109/

Youtube: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwZqU_xImWg&ab_channel=%23CHINATOWNATHOME

Image Credits
Chieh-Ting Chuang