LOTOS CHEN-YOUNG
HGA
SAY IT LOUD - CALIFORNIA Exhibitor
California Based Designer
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My mom who came to this country not knowing any English. Regardless of barriers she faced, she’s always pushed herself to learn more and created her own teaching materials from scratch. She inspires me to push myself to never stop learning.
LOTOS CHEN-YOUNG
Bio:
My name is Lotos Young. I was born to first-generation Taiwanese immigrants. I started out as a double major in political science and international relations with a full-ride UO Chinese Flagship Scholarship. I realized design was my passion and applied for the interior architecture program. I got a job at a California architecture firm focused on education, culture, and healthcare. Whether working in teams or with clients I bring an important diverse perspective through my cultural background.
How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
I grew up with a parent with an art background but didn’t learn about architecture as a career until college. I always had an interest in design and with the encouragement from architecture friends I applied for the interior architecture program.
What do you do?
I am designer who currently primarily works in in the life science, culture, and healthcare sector. I am a part of our equity committee and volunteer in the community when I can and have served for several years as co-graphics chair member at IIDA.
What excites you in the work you do?
The potential to help others through the built environment. It is also very rewarding to see and hear the reactions of those who occupy the buildings after our work is complete.
Who or what inspires you professionally?
My mom who came to this country not knowing any English. Regardless of barriers she faced, she’s always pushed herself to learn more and created her own teaching materials from scratch. She inspires me to push myself to never stop learning.
What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
My proudest achievement is my work in healthcare and public area. The potential impact these children’s hospitals and libraries have on the community mean a great deal to me as a mother who has seen some of these spaces through my child’s eyes.
Featured Project Name:
Renaissance Tower Renovation and Expansion
Featured Project Location:
Sacramento, CA
Featured Project Completion Date:
October 2022
Role in Featured Project:
Project Interior Designer Lead
Featured Project Description:
Located in downtown Sacramento, the Renaissance Tower was built in 1989. This project renovated the tower’s main lobby and common area to attract public and new tenants. While most of the existing finishes were removed, the Art Deco elevators and several wall finishes were preserved. Ceilings were opened, new light fixtures and a preserved green wall were added. Lastly, to celebrate the local vibrant art culture, two pieces were commissioned from local artists to be a part of the space.