Meet Anqi Wang | Architectural Designer

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

Hi Anqi, why did you pursue a creative career?
Growing up in Chengdu, China, I witnessed my hometown go through a dramatic transformation. When I was in middle school, Chengdu felt like a sleepy town – no subway system, uneven sidewalks, and very plain buildings. But over just a few years, everything changed. New subway lines opened, tree-lined boulevards replaced the old streets, and aging buildings were refreshed with modern facades. Seeing how these design improvements directly improved people’s daily lives really struck me. I realized that architecture and urban design could shape the way a city feels and functions for its residents. I wanted to be part of that process – to help shape better cities that people genuinely enjoy living in. That experience sparked my passion for architecture and set me on the path to a creative career. It showed me the power of design, and I’ve been driven by that inspiration ever since.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
One thing that’s stayed important to me is making space for experimentation. I see architecture as a balance between inspiration and technical growth, and there’s often a gap between the fast-paced output expected in daily practice and the deeper learning that happens over time. To stay connected to the creative side of the field, I’ve been participating in design competitions outside of work, usually with friends.

One of our projects, *Campo Marzio*, was selected as a finalist in the Young Architects Competition: *The Volcano Horsemen Retreat*. We designed a horseback retreat and stable inside the Hrossaborg Crater in northern Iceland, with a continuous roof that linked visitor and horse spaces while blending into the volcanic terrain. It was a chance to think more speculatively, outside of the usual project types.

A few other projects I’ve contributed to, like *Underbridge Homes* and *Waves*, also received Honorable Mentions from Buildner. These experiences aren’t central to my daily work, but they’ve helped me stay open, curious, and engaged with ideas I might not otherwise get to explore.

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.
I’d first immerse them in the city’s natural beauty. We’d start at Griffith Observatory to catch a sunrise, watching the city wake up from one of the best vantage points in LA. Then we’d head out to Malibu, spending the day lounging at Zuma Beach, soaking in the Pacific sunshine, and exploring Solstice Canyon with its peaceful hiking trails and scenic waterfalls. Another day, we’d ride bikes along the Santa Monica-Venice path, enjoying the ocean breeze and laid-back beach culture that’s so iconic to Southern California.

The second part of the trip would be dedicated to LA’s vibrant arts and architecture scene. We’d explore contemporary art at The Broad and LACMA, diving into exhibitions that showcase the city’s dynamic creativity. A stroll around Downtown LA would follow, taking time to admire architectural landmarks such as the shimmering curves of Frank Gehry’s Walt Disney Concert Hall. Lastly, we’d walk through Culver City, appreciating its innovative architecture inspired by visionaries like Eric Owen Moss, and discovering hidden gems in galleries and local cafés, making sure my friend sees the thoughtful and creative spirit that defines Los Angeles.

Who else deserves some credit and recognition?
I definitely wouldn’t be where I am without the support of a few key people. First and foremost, my parents have always encouraged me to follow my interests, even when the path wasn’t clear. They never pushed me in one direction but always reminded me that doing what you love matters.

I’m also really thankful for my time at SCI-Arc. The instructors challenged me to think critically and develop my own voice, and the studio culture taught me how valuable it is to exchange ideas and give honest feedback. The friendships I made there have stayed with me, and many of us continue to share thoughts and support each other in our work even after graduation. That kind of community means a lot to me.

Website: https://www.anqi.space/

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

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/anqi-wang-arc