1) What’s your full name and where are you from?
My official name is Luoqi Chen, but my friends here like to call me Rocky. I actually love this name because it fits me. It is the very first step to accommodate myself to a different culture, meanwhile, it represents my Chinese name very accurately. I am from Beijing, China and this is my sixth year here in the states.
2) What is your position here at PLA and how did it come about?
My first time joining PLA was the summer of 2010. At that point, I was just an intern working on two China projects and I came back to PLA last year and I’ve been working ever since as a project captain.
3) How did you get into the field of architecture and design? What intrigued you about it?
I grew up in a family with a strong art and design background. Since my parents have been working at an academic design and art university for 30 years, I have always been deeply attracted to architecture. I remember the first time I saw my father’s colleague design a villa by using 3-D software on a computer, I was hooked. Seeing it all come together from a computer program, to a physical model triggered my enthusiasm and curiosity to explore this field. The interior spaces were appealing and it was something I always wanted to do.
4) What drives you to continue in this field?
Architecture is an interdisciplinary program. I keep learning knowledge from other different fields of study. I like interior design, industrial design and it makes my life more meaningful.
5) What is the hardest part about being in design? The long hours/days, constant changes to projects?
Yes, it can be tough sometimes and there will be points where you lose your imagination, and it will have an effect on your imagination, but you’ll keep going and get back in a groove.
6) So, how do you relax? What hobbies do you participate in?
I like playing basketball very much. Anything sports related is interesting to me. Things like the NBA, video games and basketball shoes are all really relevant to me.
7) Who are some of the people that inspire you?
My dad, he is so skillful and intelligent with painting. The way he combines the Western and Eastern art style in his work still inspires me.
8) What is your favorite place you’ve traveled to?
Between Washington University in St. Louis, Boston and Beijing, I’ve found great spots and neighborhoods, but being with friends and family make any place great.
9) Looking forward, where do you want to go, and what do you want to do?
I really want to go see more of Japan and Europe. I’d love to see some other architecture works that will boost my overall knowledge and training.
10) What’s your current take on the future of the architecture industry?
I wish the public was more aware of sustainable design. It’s extremely important in our society today not to overuse.
11) Any lasting advice for those going into design, or are already in it?
Burn what you love, love what you burn.
12) How do you like it here at PLA so far?
It’s a cozy space, there are friendly colleagues and it’s a positive work environment. I couldn’t ask for more.
