Meet Chendi Zhang | Landscape and urban designer, urban planning researcher

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

Hi Chendi, what’s one piece of conventional advice that you disagree with?
Many creators emphasize the importance of high-quality content in their videos or posts, and while this is crucial, it is not the whole story. What really connects with the audience is empathy – understanding their struggles, providing entertainment and relaxation, and quick but thought-provoking advice. Creators who focus on delivering emotional and entertainment value alongside their content can engage a broader audience more effectively. By tuning into the emotional and leisure needs of their viewers, creators can enhance the impact and reach of their work.

The knowledge bases at schools and firm, along with the market observation and my personal interest, inspired me to merge academic knowledge with social media platforms when starting my personal IP in landscape architecture and urban planning. My IP and related services bridge the educational gap between undergraduate and graduate studies in these fields, offering young designers and planners an additional resource to deepen their knowledge. I believe that knowledge, particularly in fields like art, humanities, and social sciences, should be accessible, engaging, and story-telling. By presenting it in a fun, story-driven format, it becomes more relatable and inviting for everyone. This approach allows people to easily engage in conversations and discussions, enhancing their ability to both acquire and share knowledge. This open exchange not only democratizes information but also enriches the community involved. I am deeply passionate about representing landscape architecture and researching urban planning, and I continually learn more as I share my work. This passion drives me to keep sharing my ideas and experiences online with a wider audience.

Alright, so let’s move onto what keeps you busy professionally?
I am a former landscape architect and currently a urban planning researcher doing my PhD at UCLA. I started my personal ip in landscape architecture and urban planning on social media including RED since 2022. Design, research, and social media content creation use totolly different mindsets and skills. It was had to transform from designer to researcher or a social media personal ip. But what they share in common is creativity.

Being proactive and avoiding procrastination, along with a strong ability to learn and solve problems, helped me to achieve the three roles. Creating orginal work often feels like exploring a path less traveled. It is a journey filled with uncertainties and elements beyond our current knowledge. It is crucial to be bold in experimenting and committed to continual learning to make things work. Though this might sound daunting, it’s actually less intimidating and more manageable than you might think. I’ve found the process of taking action and acquiring new knowledge to be incredibly enjoyable and enriching.

The most important lesson my career has taught me is the value of adaptability. In a fast-changing world, the ability to pivot and embrace change is crucial for success. Whether it’s adjusting to new market trends, adopting new technologies, or responding to unexpected challenges, being adaptable has allowed me to stay relevant and competitive. This lesson has not only applied to business strategies but also to personal growth, teaching me to remain open to new ideas and continuous learning. Ultimately, adaptability has been the key to navigating the complexities of my career and sustaining long-term success.

Any places to eat or things to do that you can share with our readers? If they have a friend visiting town, what are some spots they could take them to?
Los Angeles is a vibrant mosaic of all kinds of experiences and environments that people could imagine. It offers everything from the glitz and excitement of urban life to the calm and charm of its suburbs, from a bustling calendar of shows and events to stunning outdoor landscapes, and more importantly, a diverse tapestry of cultures and communities.

For a one-week long trip at LA, 0ption 1 is Outdoor Landscapes during Daytime + Nightlife:
Daytime- Dedicate the days to exploring LA’s stunning outdoor settings. We could visit iconic spots like Griffith Park for hiking and panoramic views of the city, the serene gardens of the Getty Center, the Joshua Tree National Park and the beachfront charms of Santa Monica and Venice Beach.
Nighttime- In the evenings, dive into LA’s dynamic bar scene and nightlife. Check out the rooftop bars in Downtown LA for a glamorous night, or head to West Hollywood for trendy spots with creative cocktails. Don’t miss out on any live events or shows that might be happening during your visit.

And the Option 2 could be Themed Exploration:
Boba Tea Tour- Embark on a city-wide tour of the best boba spots. From the famous boba cafes in San Gabriel Valley to trendy new spots in Koreatown, this theme will not only satisfy your sweet tooth but also take you through some of LA’s most lively districts.
Cultural Communities- Spend each day in a different cultural hub. Start with Koreatown, where you can indulge in authentic Korean BBQ and karaoke, then head to Little Tokyo for sushi and Japanese gardens. Finish in the San Gabriel Valley, often referred to as a second Chinatown, where you can explore Chinese supermarkets, dim sum restaurants, and teahouses.

Both options offer a rich mix of activities that highlight the diverse allure of Los Angeles, ensuring the trip is packed with memorable experiences. Whether soaking up nature, enjoying the nightlife, savoring boba, or immersing oneself in cultural explorations, LA promises something for everyone.

Shoutout is all about shouting out others who you feel deserve additional recognition and exposure. Who would you like to shoutout?
My journey would not have been possible without my family. Their relentless support and encouragement have always been a pillar of strength for me. They taught me the importance of perseverance and the value of producing quality work. Their faith in my abilities has consistently propelled me toward success.

Additionally, my friends and professors from Beijing Forestry University, the University of Pennsylvania, UCLA, OLIN, and TLS have been instrumental in my career. Their inspiration and encouragement have pushed me to break traditional boundaries and innovate in my field. The relationships I’ve built at these institutions and firms have not only shaped my professional trajectory but also broadened my perspective on the world.

These individuals and communities have enriched my life, providing both a foundation and a continual source of motivation and learning. I am profoundly grateful for their roles in my story, influencing me both personally and professionally.

Website: chendizest.com

Instagram: chendizest

Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/chendi-zhang-b73a4a126/

Other: RED: chendizest