In a world where architecture is increasingly recognized as a powerful tool for shaping societies and addressing global challenges, few designers stand out as distinctly as Minyue Ge. With a career marked by innovative designs that prioritize sustainability, social equity, and transformative urban development, Minyue has established herself as a visionary in the field. This interview explores her journey, the inspirations behind her work, the significance of her award-winning projects, and her vision for the future of architecture. Photo credit: Minyue Ge Interviewer: Today, we have the pleasure of speaking with Minyue Ge, an accomplished architectural designer at SOM, who has been making significant contributions to sustainability, affordable housing, and public welfare. Welcome, Minyue. Minyue: Thank you. It’s a pleasure to be here. Interviewer: Could you share a bit about your background and what led you to pursue a career in architecture?  Minyue: My fascination with architecture began in childhood, driven by a deep curiosity about the built environment and its potential to shape human experiences. This passion guided me through my education and eventually to SOM, where I have the privilege of working on projects that emphasize sustainability, innovation, and social impact. Photo credit: Minyue Ge Interviewer: Competitions have played a significant role in your career, including winning the Moonception International Competition and the SOM Hollywood Central Park Competition. How have these experiences influenced your professional development and design approach? Minyue: Competitions have been instrumental in my professional development, providing a platform to test and refine my ideas. Winning the Moonception International Competition, where we envisioned a Lunar Experience Centre and Research Centre, highlighted the potential for sustainable and expandable habitats beyond Earth. The SOM Hollywood Central Park Competition allowed us to reimagine urban connectivity and green spaces, bridging divides and fostering community interaction. These experiences have reinforced my commitment to pushing the boundaries of architectural innovation and sustainability, fostering resilience and adaptability in my design approach. Interviewer: Your winning design for the 2028 Los Angeles Olympic Village was particularly innovative. Can you elaborate on this project and its impact? Minyue: The design was inspired by the Olympic rings. The idea is to have a modular village that could be repurposed post-Olympics into shelters and public spaces. This project emphasized prefabricated living modules, unity among athletes, and sustainable repurposing, embodying the Olympic spirit, and representing the best of Los Angeles. It demonstrated how temporary structures can be thoughtfully designed for long-term community benefit. Interviewer: As an architectural designer at SOM, you are involved in numerous forward-thinking projects. Can you describe the types of projects you are currently focused on and how they align with your vision for the future of architecture? Minyue: At SOM, I am privileged to work on projects that prioritize sustainability, social equity, and innovative design. Currently, my focus is on developing prefabricated housing solutions and enhancing public spaces. These projects require a nuanced understanding of both the technical and social dimensions of architecture, aiming to create inclusive, sustainable, and resilient urban environments. They align with my vision of using architecture as a tool for positive societal change, ensuring that built environments contribute to the well-being of both people and the planet. Interviewer: Your work at SOM involves a range of large-scale projects, often requiring complex coordination and strategic planning. How do you manage these intricacies, and what philosophies guide your approach to such diverse and impactful projects? Minyue: The intricacies of coordinating large-scale projects across multiple offices and time zones have honed my appreciation for effective communication and collaborative problem-solving. These experiences have underscored the importance of flexibility and strategic planning in managing diverse teams and complex timelines, ensuring that goals are met without compromising quality or vision. My approach is always guided by a commitment to sustainability and community engagement. The focus is on creating spaces that foster economic growth, environmental stewardship, and social inclusivity.  Interviewer: Your portfolio includes projects that reflect a broad geographical scope. How do these projects align with your architectural philosophy, and what unique challenges do they present? Minyue: These projects represent the power of international collaboration in architecture. They align with my philosophy of integrating local culture and sustainable innovation into the design process. The challenges often lie in balancing these elements while meeting regulatory requirements and managing stakeholder expectations. Interviewer: What advice would you give to aspiring architects who want to make a significant impact in the field? Minyue: My advice is to remain curious and embrace continuous learning. Architecture is always evolving, and adaptability is the key. Moreover, understanding the broader social and environmental implications of your work is crucial. Strive to create designs that leave a positive, lasting impact on communities and the planet. Engage deeply with the contexts you work within, and always aim to innovate in ways that enhance both human experience and ecological health. For aspiring architects, I encourage you to dream big and approach every project with a sense of purpose and responsibility. Architecture is not just about creating structures; it’s about shaping the future of our world. Embrace challenges as opportunities for growth and innovation. Stay passionate, stay committed, and remember that your work has the power to inspire and transform lives. In every line you draw and every space you design, strive to make a meaningful difference. Interviewer: Thank you for sharing your insights today, Minyue. Minyue: Thank you. It has been a pleasure speaking with you. As this conversation with Minyue Ge comes to a close, it’s clear that her approach to architecture goes beyond the mere creation of buildings. It’s about crafting spaces that resonate with the people who inhabit them and the communities they serve. Her commitment to innovation, sustainability, and social impact serves as an inspiration for aspiring architects and a reminder of the profound role architecture plays in shaping a better world. Appreciation is extended to Minyue for sharing her journey, and anticipation builds for the continued evolution of her groundbreaking work. The post Architecting the Future: An Interview with Minyue Ge on Innovation, Sustainability, and Transformative Design appeared first on LA Weekly.