- What is your favorite building and why?
Of the buildings I’ve personally visited in San Diego, my favorite would have to be the NSI NeuroScience Institute in La Jolla, designed by Tod Williams and Billie Tsien.
It’s a project that often flies under the radar, but every time I visit, I discover something new. What I appreciate most is how the architecture is integrated with the site. The complex is composed of several interconnected buildings that emerge from and interact with the surrounding landscape in different ways. The forms feel sculpted rather than assembled, creating a variety of outdoor spaces, terraces, ramps, courtyards, and moments of discovery that make the experience of moving through the site memorable.
The material palette is equally compelling. Stone, wood, steel, and tile are used thoughtfully and feel connected to the coastal setting. The project is full of carefully considered details, from carved openings and sloped walls to custom railings and landscape integration. Even without stepping inside, the building demonstrates how architecture can create meaningful experiences through form, materiality, and connection to place.
What architect/artist/designer inspires you and why?
Many architects inspire me, including Frank Gehry, Tadao Ando, Louis Kahn, Richard Neutra, and John Lautner.
While each approached architecture differently, what they share is a deep commitment to their craft and a willingness to challenge convention. I admire their passion, discipline, and dedication to creating architecture that pushes boundaries while remaining meaningful to the people who experience it. Their work continues to influence how we think about space, light, materials, and the relationship between buildings and their surroundings.
More than any particular style, I am inspired by their commitment to pursuing ideas and continually refining their craft. Their work serves as a reminder that meaningful design comes from curiosity, persistence, and a lifelong desire to learn and improve.