We’re excited to introduce you to the always interesting and insightful Sherly (Tongtong) ZHANG. We hope you’ll enjoy our conversation with Sherly (Tongtong) below.

Sherly (Tongtong), appreciate you joining us today. Learning the craft is often a unique journey from every creative – we’d love to hear about your journey and if knowing what you know now, you would have done anything differently to speed up the learning process.

As a landscape architect, my mission is to sculpt outdoor realms, from intimate townhouse gardens to vibrant urban plazas, etc. Mastering the craft of space creation demands keen observation, discerning what makes a space inviting, what draws people in, encourages them to linger, and what activities they inspire. My travels to various cities are always infused with the observation of public spaces. I find myself sitting in the shade, quietly watching how people engage with plazas, parks, and open areas. Cultivating an acute awareness of these everyday interactions is crucial. If I could counsel my younger self, I would urge spending less time indoors and more time venturing out to experience the world firsthand.

Cultural context deeply influences the shaping of public spaces. Every city pulses with its own unique character and rhythm, which should be mirrored in its outdoor environments. Immersing oneself in diverse locales allows a landscape architect to draw rich inspiration and learn from a myriad of design solutions. This expansive perspective is invaluable for creating spaces that resonate with people and elevate their quality of life.

Ultimately, the bedrock of effective landscape architecture is rooted in observation, experience, and a profound understanding of human behavior in outdoor spaces. To my younger self and future landscape architects, I would stress the importance of venturing into the world, observing, learning, and perpetually refining the art of crafting spaces that people adore and cherish.

Sherly (Tongtong), love having you share your insights with us. Before we ask you more questions, maybe you can take a moment to introduce yourself to our readers who might have missed our earlier conversations?

I work as a landscape architect, and my job involves crafting diverse outdoor spaces, ranging from residential gardens to parks, plazas, or even an expansive urban district.

I believe Landscape Architecture is a profession with the power to positively transform the world, seamlessly blending aesthetics with responsibility. It infuses beauty into everyday environments, introduces greenery into concrete jungles, and provides a breath of fresh air in the hustle of city life. Moreover, it stands at the forefront of addressing climate change. A great landscape design must not only be aesthetically pleasing but also socially and environmentally responsible, catering to the needs of both the immediate community it serves and the broader global context.

I take great pride in having contributed to projects spanning the globe—across the States, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, Europe, and beyond. Some of these projects have been recognized with awards:) The scales of these projects also vary greatly; at one point, we were conceptualizing a new city in China! What makes my work particularly fulfilling is that it seamlessly aligns with my personal quest. Each project in a different country or city becomes an opportunity to delve into unique geographies, engage with diverse cultures, and connect with the locals. It’s more than just a job; it’s an extension of my lifelong pursuit.

Any resources you can share with us that might be helpful to other creatives?

I regret not engaging more with others—fellow designers, mentors, or even those outside the industry—instead of attempting to create in isolation. The cross-pollination of ideas between different minds can be incredibly beneficial, especially in the early stages of design. Each person’s unique perspective can provide fresh angles and insights beyond my own. Additionally, presenting my design concepts to others helps clarify my thoughts and organize them logically. If others struggle to understand my ideas, it reveals gaps in my thinking.

In essence, the most valuable resources for a designer are the diverse minds and perspectives that surround us. The richness of collaborative input can elevate a design from good to extraordinary. Don’t hesitate to reach out! Your words could be as constructive to others as well:)

Is there a particular goal or mission driving your creative journey?

To enhance urban livability, I am motivated by my own experiences growing up in a large city where nature was often inaccessible. The parks were outdated, and the trees appeared neglected and forlorn. In contrast, my travels have taken me to cities with well-designed green park systems that prioritize the creation of welcoming public spaces for all citizens. These experiences have instilled in me a sense of responsibility to contribute to the development of more sustainable and inviting urban environments for future generations.

I envision cities where green spaces are not an afterthought but an integral part of urban planning. These parks and green areas would serve as oases of tranquility and recreation amidst the bustling cityscape, offering residents a refuge from the concrete jungle. By championing green initiatives and sustainable design, I hope to leave a legacy of livable, thriving cities that offer not just shelter but also a deep connection to the natural world.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.sherlyzhang.com/
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherlyzhg/
• Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tongtong-sherly-zhang-9162397b/