Nian believes that the power of design can turn challenges into opportunities and contribute to a more harmonious existence by combining the built environment with the natural world. Nian’s educational background provided numerous opportunities to participate in designing across multiple scales on projects around the world. When working on a new project, Nian thrives on diving into a highly inspiring contextual analysis of the local community and their lifestyle patterns. He also strives to balance high-level big picture thinking with essential details during the design process. Nian is also incredibly passionate about design that incorporates systematic ways of thinking, connecting and integrating architecture, landscape architecture, and urban design.

Nian received his Master of Science in Urban Design from the University of Texas at Austin, where he won several design fellowships and awards. His work has been recognized by the Urban Land Institute as one of the four national finalists in the ULI Hines Student Competition. He also holds a Bachelor of Architecture from Shanghai Jiao Tong University.

Outside of the office, Nian enjoys spending time exploring local parks and playing a wide variety of sports. He also likes biking around the city and capturing the natural world and everyday life through photography.