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Impactful Influences Feng shares two sources of inspiration that have had a significant impact on her. •M IL Mentor: Carol Ross Barney, my motherin-law and the recipient of the 2023 AIA Gold Medal, has been a primary mentor for me. Over the 11 years I worked alongside her, she imparted invaluable lessons in design. Yet, above all, her guidance instilled in me the virtues of persistence and fearlessness, qualities that continue to shape my journey in profound ways. • Transformative Text: A decade ago, as I juggled the demands of my career and welcomed my second child, Lean In by Sheryl Sandberg revitalized my outlook. Her perspective on navigating challenges and embracing ambition resonated deeply.
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There is a reason so many creatives in the design industry point to travel as a primary influence. Something about a familiarity with other cultures and communities so widens one’s perspective and abilities. Just ask Huili Feng. Today, she runs Tumu Studio—a premier architectural and interior design firm—alongside partner Ross Barney. But before that, Feng grew up in China. “I moved here to pursue my master’s degree in architecture in Chicago, which is where I met Ross,” she says. “We worked together on public and commercial projects with world-renowned architects for 15 years before founding our firm.” Now, Feng’s diverse background plays a role in driving Tumu Studio’s highly creative endeavors forward. “Our multicultural perspectives uniquely distinguish us in the architectural and interior design realms.” Top left The living room of this family home showcases the full Tumu Studio experience: architecture, interiors, furniture and art procurement. Top right A modern fireplace creates a beautiful vignette. Bottom This kitchen boasts a center island with a four-foot cantilever for sitting and entertaining. Photography Top left by Cynthia Lynn; Top right + Bottom by Dustin Halleck; Headshot by Stephanie Bassos
THOSE MOMENTS WHEN THE PROJECT TEAM AND CLIENTS COME TOGETHER TO SOLVE PROBLEMS ENERGIZE ME LIKE NOTHING ELSE.”
In Another Life “As an architect, I’m endlessly fascinated by the unique sequential experiences when moving through a well-designed place,” Feng shares. “In my next life, if I weren’t in this profession, I’d likely be a choreographer or film maker. I envision exploring the dynamics of three-dimensional space in a completely different environment, utilizing a distinct set of tools and expressions.”