Ning’s philosophy of design lies in the balance and harmony between the built environment and nature. She is inspired by the wisdom found within the Tao Te Ching—“For I am abstracted from the world, the world from nature, nature from the way, and the way from what is beneath abstraction.” These beliefs guide her to find innovative solutions to create sustainable, holistic designs using an interdisciplinary approach. Her designs center on meaningful, restorative landscapes that are aesthetically compelling but also respectful of local ecosystems.

Ning received a Master of Landscape Architecture and a Master of Science, Conservation Ecology from the University of Michigan. She also holds a Bachelor of Agriculture, Landscape Gardening from Beijing Forestry University in China.

Ning lives with her cat, Pu’er, and they love doing tricks together. She also enjoys immersing herself in both natural and built environments, ideally one where she can go hiking or ride her bike. When not outdoors, Ning enjoys reading science fiction and is passionate about cooking, especially Northeastern Chinese cuisine.