Passion, persistence, and people-focused leadership—Yun Gui has made her mark in architecture not only by designing exceptional spaces but also by investing in future architects who will one day take the reins.
With a career marked by hands-on expertise and a passion for sustainable, forward-thinking design, Yun Gui has built an impressive portfolio that speaks for itself—from London’s Covington & Burling office to the key amenity spaces at Boston’s South Station Tower.
Let’s take a closer look at the leadership strategies that influence Yun’s mentoring in architecture and how they can inspire the next generation of architects.
Shaping a Career with Influences from Childhood and Education
Architecture entered Yun’s life early. Raised by parents deeply embedded in the architecture and design fields, she developed a passion for the craft while experimenting with cutting models as a child.
“My parents were both in the architecture & design field,” she shares. “I was able to start playing with cutting models at a very young age. I used very professional engineering and architectural scales in math class in elementary school, which looking back, was an interesting story to tell.”
These early interactions with materials and tools formed the foundation for her enduring fascination with the field.
Yun’s formal education began at The Ohio State University, where she studied architecture as an undergraduate. She then honed her skills further at Harvard University Graduate School of Design, obtaining her Master of Architecture degree.
The skills she developed there not only refined her design acumen but also solidified her belief in the value of perseverance and meticulous attention to detail.
Gaining Practical Experience and Rising Through Professional Ranks
Yun’s practical experience is as notable as her academic background. While still in school, she secured internships at renowned firms like Gensler and Corgan, immersing herself in various aspects of the profession.
“During my time at school, I was able to join a few famous firms as summer interns, such as Gensler in LA and Corgan.”
These internships provided an invaluable foundation for what would become a distinguished career marked by steady advancement and significant accomplishments.
After graduating from Harvard, Yun joined the architectural firm LSM (Lehman Smith McLeish) in Washington, D.C., and steadily rose through the ranks.
From her start as an entry-level Architect I, she progressed to Architect II, then to Associate, and now holds the prestigious position of Director. In each role, Yun displayed an exceptional ability to lead, manage, and innovate, shaping her department and the company’s project outcomes.
Defining Milestone Achievements and Notable Projects
Over the years, Yun has hit some impressive milestones that really highlight her dedication to her craft. At LSM, each accomplishment has helped shape her reputation as an architect known for her meticulous eye and visionary thinking.
“A few highlights I would consider my milestone achievements: In 2017, I completed my thesis at Harvard and graduated. In 2018, I passed all licensing exams and became officially licensed in Washington, D.C., as an Architect.”
Several major projects have defined her career and honed her expertise in design and construction management.
The Hamilton Square Repositioning project was her first deep dive into the complexities of construction and project management, a project that fueled her learning and skill development.
Another key project, Covington & Burling London, saw her involved from inception to completion, providing her with a comprehensive understanding of every project phase.
Balancing Vision with Real-World Constraints
The path to project success in architecture is fraught with challenges, and Yun’s experience has deepened her respect for architects who persistently pursue their visions despite hurdles.
“As an architect and after practicing for 8 years now, I now have more respect for architects who have a strong vision and persist with it,” Yun notes.
She acknowledges the real-world constraints architects face, from client expectations to cost limitations, which require resilience, adaptability, and a firm grasp of both the creative and technical sides of the field.
Yun attributes her success to three key traits: “My attention to details, creativity, and resilience have been foundational to my success. It’s these traits that enabled me to design and execute projects effectively across all phases.”
Her multifaceted skill set ensures that each project reflects the highest standards of quality and design integrity.
Leading by Example: Mentorship and Team Development
Yun’s leadership approach transcends project delivery. As a team leader, Yun is all about mentorship and growth, creating a space where young architects can really sharpen their skills and dive deeper into what architecture is all about.
Working with a 40-person team across DC and NYC, she champions the value of being well-rounded in every aspect of architecture.
“I am well-rounded in all phases of a project. My ability to design and execute projects and take them through from the beginning to the end is crucial.”
Her emphasis on developing complete project expertise among her team members has not only strengthened LSM’s overall capabilities but has also provided invaluable learning opportunities for young architects under her guidance.
Speaking Engagements and Industry Insights
Outside of her project work, Yun actively participates in industry conferences and roundtable discussions, sharing insights on workplace design trends and architectural innovation.
Her recent contributions to panels, such as the Boston Teknion Roundtable and Chicago Design Days, highlight her position as an influential voice in the field. These speaking engagements allow her to connect with other industry leaders and discuss emerging trends and solutions, further extending her impact beyond her direct project work.
Embracing New Roles
As she advances in her career, Yun envisions a shift from a focus on design execution to an emphasis on project management and business development. This new phase represents an evolution from her technical roots to a broader role in architectural leadership.
She explains, “I’m going from a more drawing role to a more management role. I see myself getting more involved with the business side of running projects in the next phase of my career.”
Yun’s extensive experience in various project phases, coupled with her ambition to gain higher-level decision-making experience, equips her to excel in these roles. Her dedication to becoming a versatile leader in architecture reflects a commitment not only to her personal growth but also to advancing the field as a whole.
Yun’s Commitment to Mentorship and Innovation
As Yun’s career grows, her commitment to mentorship and pushing boundaries in design only deepens. Passionate about shaping the next wave of architects, she’s dedicated to sharing the wisdom she’s gained, empowering young professionals to create their own paths in architecture.
With a rare blend of hands-on experience across every project phase—from the spark of design to the final touches of construction—Yun sets an inspiring example for those eager to master both the art and science of building.
Her work shows that architecture isn’t just a profession; it’s a platform for creating meaningful change, one project and one future architect at a time.
