Dedicated and passionate architectural and graphic designer with 4+ years of experience, showcasing expertise in Seattle and Taipei.
Specialties include communication abilities, project management, concept development, permitting for residential and commercial developments. Adept at coordinating with cross-functional teams, including engineers, architects, government officials, and corporate stakeholders.
Taipei, Taiwan 2019-2021
WORK EXPERIENCE
Architectural Designer
CARES Consultants Corp. | H.S. Architecture
Design Development | 3D Modeling | Construction Drawing | Building Permitting | All Forms of Brand/Graphic Design
Taipei, Taiwan 2017-2018
Design Intern Daniel Stettler Design LLC
Design Development | 3D Modeling | Construction Drawing | Model Making
Taipei, Taiwan 2022 2021-2022 Seattle, WA 2014-2017
Bachelor of Arts Degree in Architectural Design University of Washington EDUCATION
AWARD
Disappeared Manufacturing Sales Centre
iF Design Award
Winner in Architecture, Public Architecture Category
A’ Design Award
Winner in Architecture, Building and Structure Design Category
INNODESIGN Award 2021
Winner in Interior Design, Space Design and Architecture Category, Bronze
The Vanishing Maker Hub
Pre-sale House Reception Center
CARES Consultants Corp. | H.S. Architecture |
2017 - April 2018
Type:
Pre-sale House Reception Center
Location:
New Taipei City, Taiwan
Collaboration:
Design 90%, Visualization 80%
Drawing inspiration from Taiwan’s traditional architecture, the project reimagines the island’s rolling hills and intertwining cornices of yesteryear. By applying modern construction techniques to reconstruct the traditional courtyard layout, the design revives the essence of Taiwan’s folk houses. The infusion of steel, glass, and other contemporary elements reinterprets the traditional architectural vocabulary in contrast to the nearby Great Buddha Temple. This juxtaposition of old and new establishes an engaging dialogue, enriching the ambiance of the new space.
Responsibilities :
• Lead designer working with the architect on design concept development, construction documents, and permitting for the entire project.
• Coordinated discussions about zoning laws with architects, clients, and government officials, iterating on building design revisions based on the feedback received.
• Main contact and coordinator for the engineers, various corporate team managers from the client, and government officials.
• Prepared and submitted documents for show house and opening permits in New Taipei City.
• Organized and developed all design concepts and presentation documents, actively participating in weekly client meetings, structural meetings, and construction meetings, occasionally taking over the meetings when the architect is unavailable.
• Coordinated with the coworker in charge of interior design and interns to develop visualizations.
Inspiration
The overall concept is based on Taiwan’s traditional houses, which reminds one of the forgotten scenes of the old days- the island’s rolling hills and cornices intertwined with one another. In the courtyard layout, the traditional form is reconstructed via modern methods, and the traditional folk house vocabulary is reinterpreted through steel structure, glass and other elements, which is in sharp contrast with the Great Buddha Temple next door. The dialogue between the old and the new unfolds the atmosphere of the new space.
Triditional Court yard : 三合院
The sanheyuan is the basic layout of traditional Han Chinese residences, commonly found in mainland China and Taiwan, with some presence in Southeast Asia as well. Typically, a siheyuan consists of a main house facing north (the main building) and wing rooms on the east and west sides (the protective dragons). Its name, “Sanheyuan,” stems from the arrangement of buildings in three directions.
Sanheyuan Courtyard Charm
The sanheyuan’s composition incorporates a central courtyard design, often adorned with ornamental plantings for gatherings and relaxation. Common choices include banyan trees, Chinese parasol trees, and camphor trees, providing both shade and aesthetic appeal.
Background
The project started in July 2020. It took 8 months of design and development until the construction began in Banqiao District, New Taipei City, Taiwan in February 2021, and it was officially opened in April 2021.
Specifications
The project uses steel structure as the main construction method, and it is also applied onto the roof shape design. The site area is 1779.5m² and the building area is 1470.96m².
Interior
Upon entering through the front entrance, reminiscent of an oriental city gate, visitors encounter a split path: to the right, stairs ascend to the second-floor exhibition space of the pre-sale house, while the left path leads to the ground-floor exhibition space, following a counterclockwise direction.
In the semi-open courtyard, a small tree stands, casting its greenery into the building as sunlight filters through the ceiling curtain glass, bluring the boundary between the street and the structure, seamlessly merging nature with city life.
Up the stairs, the display spaces on the two floors are separated by traditional Chinese windows, and various exhibition spaces for life celebrations surrounding a semi-open space (indicating threshing floor in traditional Taiwanese housing. In this way, the commercial advertising of the real estate is integrated into the local cultural experience activities, coffee shop, pastry shop and other complex spaces.
The sense of distance also attempts to evoke the sense of sight of rural families enjoying the coolness under the trees. Whether it is a mezzanine platform or a cool space under the shade of a tree, it forms a way to interrupt the rapid urban pace and provide visitors with different types of resting areas.
Window gratings
Window gratings were once a ubiquitous sight in Taiwan. Starting around the 1950s, homeowners began installing stylized metal barriers in front of their windows to keep out thieves. But gratings soon became more than a theftdeterrent. They turned into elaborate, labor-intensive works of art that reflected the tastes and interests of those who commissioned them.
Window grating design featuring the company logo
Originating in Venice, Italy, was introduced to Taiwan during Japanese colonial rule. Early homeowners, building their own houses, engraved unique patterns into terrazzo floors, symbolizing blessings and prosperity. Temples often featured depictions of mythical stories and auspicious symbols. Terrazzo thus showcases exquisite craftsmanship from that era.
Terrazzo
Buddhist Association of the Republic of China Headquarters
Taipei City, Taiwan Design 90%, Visualization 100%
Founded on 30 May 1953 in Beijing,and was disbanded in the late 1960s during the Cultural Revolution. The Chinese Buddhist Association was reinstated in Taipei after the relocation of the Republic of China government to Taiwan in 1949. The headquarters temple of the Chinese Buddhist Association Office holds a profound and enduring history. However, the decades-old building is now in need of restoration and renovation.
Responsibilities
:
• Lead designer working with the architect on design concept development and permitting for through the early phases of the project.
• Coordinated discussions about zoning laws with architects, clients, and government officials, iterating on building design revisions based on the feedback received.
• Main contact and coordinator for structural engineers, client representatives, and Taipei City Department of Urban Development officials.
• Prepared and submitted documents for reconstruction of urban unsafe and old buildings permit in Taipei City.
• Organized and developed all design concepts and presentation documents, actively participating in weekly client meetings and structural meetings.
• Took measurements and prepared 3D Revit models and renderings for presentations.
• Coordinated with the coworker in charge of interior design and interns to develop visualizations.
Design Elements
With deep roots in both China and Taiwan, the renovation of the Chinese Buddhist Association primarily focuses on elements of traditional Chinese culture and Buddhist cultural design. After evaluating various color themes and design elements, we have opted for a darker, natural, and Zen-inspired theme. Key considerations include incorporating Buddha statues, brass accents, cassocks, serene water features, bamboo motifs, and the use of redwood.
Collaboration: Office Interior Taipei City, Taiwan
Design 90%, Visualization 100%
As CARES continues its expansion, the company has recently undergone a comprehensive office remodel, enhancing the workspace with a variety of functional areas.
The newly renovated office features a versatile meeting space, designed to seamlessly separate from the main office area when needed. Additionally, a private manager’s room has been incorporated for confidential discussions, while an inviting open rest area encourages employee gatherings, fostering idea exchange and teamwork.
Through the entrance, the path is mainly divided into two general groups: visitors and workers. The office plan and workstation arrangement are strategically placed to provide clear visual indications of paths and directions for any visitor. Storage units are limited to a height of 4 feet or are placed against solid walls to ensure the main office area remains see-through. Additionally, we ensured that each workstation has storage
To maintain a clean and clutter-free environment, accessible cable channels are discreetly concealed beneath the floorboards, ensuring both functionality and aesthetics are seamlessly integrated.
Responsibilities :
• Lead designer working with the architect and team, planning, executing, and coordinating the entire project.
• Developed renderings, walkthroughs, construction drawings, and detail drawings using Revit 3D.
• Communicated with construction workers and the manager on site to execute project plans and resolve any emerging issues.
• Worked with the team and 10+ manufacturing factories to select materials, furniture, and lighting items, and sorted out costs and scheduling.
• Estimated and ensured that everything stayed on track with the overall schedule and finishing date in coordination with the team.
• Checked HOA rules and communicated with the committee to ensure a smooth process.
• Assessed and analyzed the needs of employees, managers, renters, and visitors for working, resting, meeting and entertaining. Synthesized all gathered information to create a versatile, cohesive design space.
Material Palette :
With the choice of a completely exposed ceiling comes the challenge of the office feeling cluttered and messy. To counter this, I chose a simple material palette. Dark gray PVC flooring hides certain imperfections and adds richness and contrast to the room. Light warm wood tabletops bring warmth to the space. Rusted metal sheeting ties the rough industrial look together and also adds warmth.
In the restroom, a touch of terrazzo adds playfulness. With specks of blue in the terrazzo, it echoes the blue primary color of our company logo, complemented by the blue backsplash tiles.
An Open Office Space
To create an open and inviting environment that encourages the creative exchange of ideas, I opt for a completely open office space design, complemented by a main meeting space and a manager’s office that provides occasional privacy when needed.
In the pursuit of a more spacious workspace, a deliberate choice was made to remove the ceiling, opting for an industrial aesthetic. The exposed structure not only contributes to a sense of openness but also serves as a real-life learning example for visitors and employees.
Design Detail : Counter
Design Detail : Bar Table
Light Box
Toe Kick Lighting
Acrylic Board
Plywood
Engineered Marble
Manager’s Office Restroom Meeting Room
05 Pytte Residance
Additional Dwelling Unit to existing house
Stettler Design LLC Internship | 2017 - April 2018 (on going project)
Type:
Location: Collaboration: Residential Seattle, King Kounty Design 10%, Visualization 90%
This house is undergoing refurbishment and extension to cater to the evolving needs of the family. The design is meticulously crafted to accommodate their daughter, who necessitates additional care and assistance. Bedrooms and bathrooms are conscientiously designed with extra space to facilitate wheelchair use. The kitchen, serving as a focal point for the family’s shared passion for cooking and hosting large family dinners, is given special attention.
Moreover, the addition of a floor above the garage is strategically designed for future purposes, including short-term renting and visits from family members. This added space functions as a compact studio, intentionally separated from the main house, accessible through a long staircase that extends to the entrance patio, offering a distinct and flexible living arrangement.
Responsibilities :
• Attended structural meetings with architects and engineers; recorded notes and revised detail drawings based on follow-up emails and meeting discussions.
• Participated in design meetings with architects and clients, focusing on exterior façade and interior design; documented discussions and updated all related drawings accordingly.
• Created 3D models and renderings using Rhinoceros and Flamingo, supporting clear and compelling design presentations for client meetings.
• Organized and printed drawing sets and files systematically to ensure preparedness for a range of project scenarios.
Second Floor Plan
Scale 1”=20’
Proposed Plans
First Floor Plan
Basement Floor Plan
Roof
(verify metal or asphalt roof)
Membrane
Plywood Sheathing Per Structl
TJI Rafters Per Structl
R49 min Insulation
GWB Vaulted Ceiling
Typical Window
Head Flashing
Header per Structl w/ Rigid ins.
H&H Tilt&Turn Window
Typical Second Floor
3/4” Hardwood Flooring
Plywood Subfloor
TJI Framing per Structl
VERIFY Radiant Heat in Joist Bays
1/2” Hat Channel
5/8” GWB Ceiling
Typical Exterior Wall
Siding
Plywood Sheathing per Structl
2x6 Framing w/ R21 Insulation
GWB or Plaster per Finish Schedule
First Floor
3/4” Hardwood Flooring
3/4” PW Subfloor
Existing Framing to Remain
1/2” Hat Channel
5/8” GWB Ceiling
Typical Wall Below Grade
free draining backfill on drainage fabric
(Miradrain 6000 or sim drainage composite)
R10 EPS rigid insulation
fluid applied waterproofing on concrete foundation wall
R15 batt insulation
gwb finish
Typical Basement Floor
Finished, Sealed Concrete
Slab per Structl with Radiant Heat
R10 min Rigid Insulation
Vapor Barrier
Gravel, Drainage per Civil
Footing Drain
4” perforated hard pvc pipe with at least 6” of 1-inch-minimum washed rock
wrapped in non-woven, geotextile filter fabric
invert pipe 6” min. below bottom of floor slab
Sections
Covered Porch Den Living
Den
06
Bell Elizondo Residance
Additional Dwelling Unit to existing house
Stettler Design LLC Internship | 2017 - April 2018 (on going project)
Type:
Location: Collaboration: Residential Lake Forest Park Dist. Design 50%
This design is program to two seprate groups of users. The bottom floor is design for the use of short term renting and visits of family members. A compact studio space that feels spacious with the small patio at the back of the structure that connects outdoor space but still keeps the space feeling rather private. The upper level is design for the use of the main house residents. As request, of a space for psychology therapy sessions, group gatherings with the ability of using a projector.
Site Plan
Scale 3/32”=1’
First Floor Plan
Scale 3/16”=1’
Scale 3/16”=1’
Responsibilities :
• Proposed and revised design concepts based on site studies, field measurements, and client feedback; solutions were implemented into the project under the guidance of the lead architect.
• Participated in design meetings with architects and clients, contributing to exterior façade, interior, and landscape design discussions; documented meeting outcomes and updated all related drawings.
• Developed 3D models and renderings using Rhinoceros and Flamingo to enhance clarity and effectiveness in client presentations.
• Systematically organized and printed all drawing sets and project files to ensure preparedness for review sessions and team coordination.
Scale 3/32”=1’
Second Floor Plan
In consideration of the sunpath, windows are strategically placed to maximize natural light. The second floor is designated for psychology therapy sessions, requiring a private, isolated, and uninterrupted space. To ensure privacy, we have carefully offset and blocked views of neighboring houses, particularly neighboring windows.
“What will designers need to think about in 20, 50, or 100 years? How will society, business, law, the economy, the environment, etc. be different and how will they influence design?”
- McKinley Studio Call for Proposals …As in any design process, ideas of site come through making. Designers confront the challenge of defining urban sites through a creative process of representation. … representation is not about depicting reality, but about making knowledge. …[defining urban sites] involves recognizing the overlay and interplay of multiple realities operating at the same time on the same place.
WEAVE WELD KNIT
Andrea Kahn, Site Matters
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTED 2117
CONSTRUCTION PROJECTED 2117
GRNERAL STRATEGY
Colonization models offer novel adaptive reuse strategies for I-5, borrowing ideas from fabric making process such as stitching, intertwining, patching, kniting, weaving and welding. Based on different I-5 locations and conditions, as well as become an answer for energy, ecology, economy, recreation, public and community, remediation of pollution and public transportation.
making process such as stitching, intertwining, patching, knit, stacking, weaving and welding. Based at increasing the east-west connection, as well as become an answer for energy, ecology, economy, recreation, public and community, remediation of pollution, and public transportation.
CONCEPT DIAGRAM
STRATEGY : WEAVING
The highway, I-5, runs through Seattle like a cut, blocking connection between areas. Since it’s a structure not allowed to branch off, we need to use the strategy of weaving.
CONNECTIONS
Multiple pathway connecting downtown to first hill and I-5 platform. With mulitiple layers of platforms, both underground and above ground, and with the city street runs diagonally above the highway, the city is able to connect again.
PROGRAMS
Colonization of I-5 to give back to the city. The city is able to heal from the cut and connect again.
Perspective view : Connection between layes
LANDSCAPE
Open space for play, rest and restore
FACILITIES
Programs to activate the space
URBAN PATHWAY
Pedestrian and bike lane to improve walkability
Street
Market Level & Transport Level
STREET LEVEL:
Shared road for multimodal transportation and parking for ride share
MULTI-MARKET LEVEL
Platform that opens up for programs and connected to other site
During the transition of ownership in 2017, CARES underwent a significant transformation, necessitating a refreshed brand identity to convey the company’s new direction. I took on the responsibility of overseeing the entire brand identity design process, which encompassed creating a new logo, designing business cards, creating the website, developing nametags, stickers, and stationary, among other collateral. This comprehensive endeavor aimed to effectively communicate its renewed vision and values to stakeholders and clients alike.
The company primarily specializes in building laws, architecture design services, and interior renovation permitting for large-scale hotels. I opt for an upright and foursquare design that conveys the company’s professionalism and expertise. Spruce blue evokes feelings of calmness, serenity, and peace. Additionally, blue is perceived as a sign of stability and reliability, which aligns well with the company’s image.
中華大使風險管理顧問股份有限公司
Business Sign Display /
Letterpress Printing process
To create an elegant and professional look, I opt for letterpress printing. The front is strategically designed with tactile and visual impressions into the paper, a technique known as “debossed.”
The choice of cotton paper communicates an elegance and handcrafted quality that can’t be matched by digital printing methods.
Stationary /
#4a4e5e #909cac
Name Tag /
Stationary /
Moon Festival Greating Card /
Company Website Design
As digital media gains prominence in Taiwan’s architecture industry, CARES acknowledges the necessity of establishing an online presence to exhibit our work, engage with potential clients, attract talented individuals, and foster collaborations with partner companies. Tasked with designing our website, I meticulously crafted a digital platform that embodies our company’s identity while ensuring a seamless and captivating experience for visitors. Emphasizing a clean visual aesthetic and a simplified structure, the website utilizes minimal color palettes and darker themes to enhance readability and provide users with a pleasant browsing experience, especially for prolonged screen viewing.
