Bio:
The great designer , Weishi Wang, AIA Associate, LEED AP, is an intern architect at RDG Planning & Design. Since joining the firm in 2018, Weishi has focused on senior living design and energy-efficient solutions. Weishi earned her Master of Architecture degree and a Certificate in Health Systems and Design from Texas A&M University. Her hometown is Hangzhou, China. Prior to joining RDG, Weishi worked as an intern for multiple international and national architecture firms, the ADA Barcelona and UAD in China.

How did you first learn about architecture and when did you decide that built environment profession was an area of interest for you?
My mother is a structural engineer and she suggested I become an architect. I learned architecture in two countries, and by traveling around the world, was able to explore the culture rooted in architecture and to sense the spirit of spaces.
 
What do you do?
As an intern architect, I’m fortunate to engage in every phase of projects, to go through the decision-making process. Focused on the senior living market, I assist architects, and we share the goal to improve the living environment for residents.

What excites you in the work you do?
There is a huge sense of achievement when a project I’m working on completes. It is meaningful because design for these senior living communities directly impacts the life quality of seniors, staff, family members and the bigger community.
 
Who or what inspires you professionally?
I’m inspired by art and nature. My co-workers, in-house training and self-development programs RDG offers help me to shape an overall view towards architectural practice. My professor inspired me to bridge the experience and architectural design.

What is your proudest professional accomplishment or achievement?
I’m proud to assist the team to complete the Lodge at Magnolia Manor, that is the first real project of my career. I cherish every opportunity to participate in projects. Focusing on the present helps me continue moving forward to the next goal.

Featured Project Name: 
The Lodge at Magnolia Manor

Featured Project Location: 
Columbus, Georgia
 
Featured Project Completion Date: 
2021

Role in Featured Project: 
Intern architect
 
Featured Project Description:
The Lodge at Magnolia Manor is a new hybrid senior living campus. This 338,000-SF building provides a full spectrum of housing and care including 100 independent living apartments, 78 assisted living apartments and 102 private skilled nursing rooms on 40 acres of land. Indoor and outdoor common areas are designed to foster experiences that encourage social relationships, wellness and life-long learning. Food services and supportive technology are created to enhance the resident experience.

Photography Credit:
Ben Iwen