Meet Jing Chen

We had the good fortune of connecting with Jing Chen and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Jing, why did you pursue a creative career?
Pursuing an artistic and creative career was a natural and intuitive choice for me. In China, students must select their college major based on their Gaokao (Chinese SAT) scores. Growing up in a family deeply rooted in the arts, my father was a musician, and my mother practiced traditional Chinese watercolor painting. This creative environment shaped my perspective from an early age and sparked my passion for design and painting. Architecture was the perfect discipline for me because it seamlessly combines aesthetics and logic—two domains I have always been drawn to. My academic journey began at Dalian University of Technology, where I gained a strong foundation in architectural design and theory. During my time there, I worked on projects that required not only creative vision but also meticulous problem-solving, solidifying my commitment to the field. As I progressed in my career, moving from China to the United States, my passion for architecture deepened. I joined globally recognized firms, such as Gensler, and worked on transformative projects ranging from public educational buildings to historic renovations. These projects have allowed me to contribute meaningfully to communities by designing spaces that foster learning, collaboration, and inclusivity.
Architecture is not just a career for me; it is a means to make a broader impact. My work integrates innovative designs with sustainable practices, ensuring that my contributions align with the growing need for environmentally conscious solutions. The more I immerse myself in this field, the more I recognize its potential to address critical challenges, such as urbanization and climate change.
My commitment to architecture stems from a lifelong passion and the understanding that my expertise can bring lasting value to society, advancing the public interest on both a local and global scale.

Can you open up a bit about your work and career? We’re big fans and we’d love for our community to learn more about your work.
My career in architecture has been a journey of continuous learning, exploration, and growth. What sets me apart is my ability to blend creativity with practicality. Architecture is not just about creating beautiful spaces; it’s about designing environments that solve problems, enhance lives, and contribute meaningfully to the fabric of a community. I am most proud of my ability to approach every project with both an artistic vision and a deep respect for the logic and function that architecture demands. This dual approach has enabled me to work on diverse projects, from historic renovations to cutting-edge educational facilities, all while ensuring that the design serves its purpose while inspiring those who use it.

My professional journey started in China, where I studied at Dalian University of Technology and developed a strong foundation in architectural theory and design. I was fortunate to be raised in a family that valued creativity—my father was a musician, and my mother is a watercolor artist—which instilled in me a deep appreciation for art and design. These influences naturally led me to architecture, where I found a perfect balance between aesthetics and functional problem-solving.
After completing my education, I started my career at El Dorado in Portland, Oregon, where I honed my skills in design and collaboration. I then moved to Los Angeles and joined Gensler, one of the world’s leading design firms. At Gensler, I have had the opportunity to contribute to a wide variety of projects, from educational buildings to historical renovations. This global platform has allowed me to expand my knowledge, collaborate with experts in other fields, and design spaces that truly make an impact on the people who use them.
It hasn’t been easy. Like many in the architecture field, I’ve faced challenges in terms of balancing creativity with practicality, navigating complex client needs, and meeting tight deadlines. But each obstacle has been an opportunity to learn and refine my approach. One of the biggest lessons I’ve learned is the importance of resilience. Architecture is a long process, and things don’t always go as planned, but being adaptable and maintaining a focus on the bigger picture has been key to overcoming setbacks. Another crucial lesson is the importance of mentorship. I’ve been lucky to have incredible mentors who have shaped my career, and I now see the value in paying that forward by supporting others in their own journeys.
What excites me most is the opportunity to contribute to spaces that have a lasting impact. Whether it’s a public educational building that inspires students, a historical renovation that preserves cultural heritage, or an innovative design that challenges conventional thinking, I am passionate about creating environments that reflect the values of the community and enhance people’s lives. I want the world to know that I am not just an architect—I am a problem solver, a creative thinker, and someone who deeply believes in the power of design to make a positive difference.

The story I want to share is one of perseverance, growth, and a constant drive to push boundaries. Architecture, for me, is not just about buildings; it’s about creating spaces that tell a story, foster connection, and leave a meaningful legacy. That’s the work I am proud to be part of, and it’s the legacy I want to leave behind.

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.
If my best friend were visiting the area, I’d plan an unforgettable week full of fun and exploration. We’d start with a visit to Memory Look for their delicious matcha Einspanner, followed by a sweet treat at Flour Premium Doughnut. Then, we’d spend some time at Barnsdall Art Park, enjoying the views and the artistic vibe. Next, we’d hike up to Griffith Observatory for incredible city views and fresh air, followed by a relaxing lunch in Larchmont where we’d enjoy Italian food and some ice cream for dessert. Another day would include a trip to the Getty Villa to immerse ourselves in ancient art and architecture, paired with a peaceful visit to SRF Lake Shrine for some tranquility. Finally, we’d spend an afternoon in Santa Monica, soaking up the beach atmosphere, enjoying the rides at the pier, and watching a stunning sunset to cap off the perfect week. Feel free to DM me through Instagram if you’d like more recommendations for places to visit, eat, or explore in the area. I’m always happy to share my favorite spots and ideas to make your trip unforgettable!

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?
If I had to give a shoutout, it would undoubtedly go to Gensler, the firm I have the privilege of working for. Gensler has played a pivotal role in shaping not just my career but also my understanding of the architectural profession as a whole. The firm’s commitment to innovation, collaboration, and impactful design has been incredibly inspiring.

Working at Gensler has provided me with opportunities to contribute to meaningful projects that go beyond aesthetics—they shape communities and improve lives. For example, I’ve been fortunate to work on projects like public educational buildings and historic renovations, where I’ve learned to balance preserving cultural heritage with creating spaces that meet modern needs. These experiences have expanded my skills and taught me the value of designing with purpose. Beyond the projects, the mentorship and support I’ve received at Gensler have been invaluable. My colleagues, leaders, and collaborators have consistently encouraged me to push boundaries and think critically. In particular, my studio supervisor has been a role model for optimism and perseverance, teaching me to approach every challenge with confidence and resilience. Gensler’s focus on professional development has also been instrumental in helping me grow as an architect. The firm’s culture of continuous learning has motivated me to explore innovative approaches and refine my expertise. It’s this supportive and dynamic environment that has enabled me to thrive, and I am immensely grateful to be part of such an extraordinary organization.

So, to my colleagues, mentors, and the incredible team at Gensler—thank you for your guidance, encouragement, and inspiration. You have been a cornerstone of my journey, and I am excited to continue contributing to the impactful work we do together.

Website: ycjarch.cargo.site

Instagram: ycjstudio_ada

Linkedin: www.linkedin.com/in/ycjstudiojing

Image Credits
Yanci Chen, Yinzhu Yao, Qizhen Tang