Talent Spotlight: Ruo Chen

International Women's Day 2024

3月 4, 2024

Name: Ruo Chen

Role: Associate | Senior Urban Designer/Architect

Studio: Shanghai

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?

The architecture and design industry has made progress in terms of gender diversity over the years, with more women entering the field and taking on prominent roles. In the future, I would like to see even more diversity in terms of gender in the architecture and design industry. This includes not only increasing the number of women in the field but also ensuring that they have equal opportunities for leadership positions, recognition, and compensation. It is important to create a more inclusive and supportive environment where all individuals, regardless of gender, can thrive and contribute their unique perspectives to the industry.

 

What challenges have you faced as a woman in your industry, and how did you overcome them?

Women often face the challenge of balancing their career and family responsibilities due to societal expectations and traditional gender roles. I have overcome them through building a support network of family, friends, and colleagues who can provide assistance and understanding during challenging times. Establish boundaries between work and personal life to maintain a healthy balance and prioritize self-care.

 

From your perspective, how has the idea of leadership transformed, and in what ways do you believe women can play a role in reshaping and redefining leadership within the workplace?

From my perspective, the idea of leadership has evolved to be more inclusive and collaborative, moving away from traditional hierarchical structures to embrace diverse perspectives and styles. Women can play a crucial role in reshaping and redefining leadership within the workplace by bringing in unique qualities such as empathy, communication skills, and a collaborative approach.

“From my perspective, the idea of leadership has evolved to be more inclusive and collaborative. Women can play a crucial role in reshaping and redefining leadership within the workplace by bringing in unique qualities such as empathy, communication skills, and a collaborative approach.”

Do you think women are treated equally in competing for leadership positions in the industry?

 

In the architecture industry, women have made strides toward equality in competing for leadership positions, but challenges still exist. Facing the current complex and changing economic form and industry prospects, women will be more sensitive to the various details of development, balance the relationship between all team members, and organize and lead the cooperative spirit of the team.
 
 
 

What’s your idea of perfect happiness?

 

My idea of perfect happiness is a state of contentment and fulfillment where one feels truly at peace with oneself and their surroundings. It involves experiencing joy, love, and a sense of purpose in life, as well as appreciating the present moment and finding meaning in what you do. Perfect happiness can vary from person to person, but it’s about feeling a deep sense of harmony, gratitude, and connection with the world around me.
 
 
 

What makes a successful team?

 

A successful team demonstrates collaboration, effective communication, mutual trust, and a shared commitment to common goals and values. In addition, diversity of skills, experiences, and perspectives within the team can enrich discussions and solutions, leading to more innovative and effective results. A team’s success is crucial to a positive work environment, where members feel valued, heard, and respected.
 
 
 

What is your favourite part of working at B+H?

 

Acknowledge and appreciate the efforts and contributions of team members. Recognize their achievements and celebrate successes. Foster a culture of respect where everyone’s opinions, backgrounds, and perspectives are valued. Promote inclusivity and diversity within the team. Encourage collaboration and teamwork. Create opportunities for team members to work together, share knowledge, and learn from each other.

“Trust your intuition and intuition, stay determined,and never underestimate the value of your creativity and talent in shaping the future of design and architecture.”

How would you describe your approach to design?

A well-designed building or space cannot exist without carefully considering functionality and usability. The design must meet the user’s needs and provide a functional and enjoyable environment. In addition, the design of the relationship between users and space is also particularly important. What kind of memories and what kind of stories will happen in this space are also key to our careful design for our clients.

 

Could you share one piece of advice for young women who have a passion for the design and architecture industry?

One piece of advice for young women passionate about the design and architecture industry is to believe in yourself and your abilities. Trust your intuition and intuition, stay determined, and never underestimate the value of your creativity and talent in shaping the future of design and architecture.

What would you say to your younger self when you were an architecture student or earlier in your career?

If I could speak to my younger self when I was a student of architecture or earlier in my career, I would say not to be afraid of making mistakes, to be brave in seeking new opportunities and challenges, and to never underestimate my own potential.

 

What makes you proud of yourself – what’s your biggest achievement as an architect?

I would be proud of my ability to design spaces that positively impact people’s lives and communities. As architects, we have different ways of exploring the world. Travelling to different places to draw inspiration from various cultures, architectures, and landscapes, enriching the creative repertoire. Maintaining curiosity and a spirit of exploration are the qualities this career has given me.

 

Who are some women in architecture you admire or are inspired by?

Lin Huiyin(林徽因)is my spiritual mentor. She showed courage and determination in pursuing a career in architecture at a time when it was uncommon for women, to break barriers and make significant contributions to the field. Lin Huiyin demonstrated intellectual curiosity through her diverse interests in architecture, literature, and history, constantly seeking to expand her knowledge and understanding of the world around her.

 

How do you foster collaboration and inclusivity within your architectural team, clients, or projects?

Foster a culture of respect where diverse perspectives are welcomed and valued. Embrace inclusivity and celebrate the unique contributions of each team member. Practice empathy and understanding towards team members and clients, recognizing and respecting individual differences and needs. Provide constructive feedback, recognize achievements, and celebrate successes to motivate and engage team members.

 

In a traditionally male-dominated field like architecture, how do you see the role of women architects shaping the future of the profession?

Women architects bring unique perspectives, diverse skills, and an innovative approach to the field, enriching architecture practice with new ideas and visions. Our positive impact shapes a more equitable, creative, and inclusive field for future generations.

 

What initiatives or support systems do you believe are essential for empowering the next generation of women entering the profession?

Establishing support networks and communities that provide a supportive environment, collaboration, and networking opportunities for women in architecture. Highlighting and recognizing the achievements and contributions of women architects, increasing their visibility, and inspiring others to follow in their footsteps.