Talent Spotlight: Karen Wong
International Women's Day 2024
Name: Karen Wong
Role: Director of Practice, CHIL Interior Design
Studio: Vancouver
How has the architecture & design industry evolved in terms of gender diversity since you began your career, and what changes would you like to see in the future?
I started my design career 17 years ago and admittedly it’s still not a very gender diverse industry. Opposite of other typical industries, It’s still female-dominated. But, I am seeing more progression of males in the industry, which adds new perspective and energy. Another change I see is the younger generation being in more leadership roles rather than leaning toward the more well-seasoned, which allows for more diverse and progressive outlooks.
What challenges have you faced as a woman in your industry, and how did you overcome them?
Luckily, I landed in an extremely female-dominated industry and have had very supportive peers throughout my career. The Interior Design industry has this great way of lifting and empowering everyone around you. On the flipside of the design industry is the construction industry which is the complete opposite! The way to be respected and gain trust on a job site is to be confident and stand your ground in your beliefs. Trust yourself and your capability, which will show through in how you present yourself.
What makes a successful team?
Trust, respect and communication.
“The Interior Design industry has this great way of lifting and empowering everyone around you. Trust yourself and your capability, which will show through in how you present yourself.”
What is something a well-designed building/space can’t exist without?
A strong story. The space needs to speak to the user
How would you describe your approach to design?
I love going to places and seeing how people interact with their surroundings to create better, more useable space. I know design is a lot about how aesthetically something looks, but I do l focus on how people interact with a space to see how that can heighten the design
What makes you proud of yourself – what’s your biggest achievement as an interior designer?
I didn’t know this at the time but how significant it was to meet the legendary Karl Lagerfeld and knowing a small little firm in Vancouver/ HK was given this opportunity. I think I can just see the impact that project has had on my career, and I am forever grateful I was given this chance. It proved that hard work really pays off and let me realize that you never know what will happen in your life! This is a story to tell my grandkids!