Michael K Chen Architecture is a renowned architecture firm that specializes in delivering innovative and meticulously crafted designs for clients seeking thoughtful and purposeful architectural solutions. The studio's services span across architecture, interior design, and product design, offering a cohesive, collaborative, and coordinated approach to each project. From individual apartments to single-family homes and larger-scale buildings, MKCA brings an exceptional level of refinement and attention to detail to every project they undertake. We recently had the chance to sit down with Michael K Chen himself, and here’s what he had to share about his journey and the future of his practice.
CovetED Magazine : Could you tell us about the beginning of your journey in the design world? How did your passion for architecture develop?
Michael K Chen : I was one of those kids who loved to draw and build things in my room. I think I decided to become an architect when I was six years old, and it just stuck. There was something about creating spaces that felt right for me, and I knew early on that this was what I wanted to do.
CovetED Magazine : We understand that you founded your company in your own apartment back in 2011. What were the biggest challenges you faced, and what inspired you to take this leap?
Michael K Chen : Before founding MKCA, I worked on small projects independently and collaboratively with others. In 2011, I took on a larger project that required a team, so we started as two people in a shared office space. Over time, the practice grew organically. What excites me most about having a team is the diversity of perspectives and expertise they bring to our work. It makes our projects richer and more dynamic. Learning to manage and nurture a team has been both the hardest and most rewarding part of running a practice because it involves understanding people, fostering their strengths, and ensuring the office runs efficiently. These are skills that aren't typically taught in architecture school.
CovetED Magazine : How would you describe your signature style?
Michael K Chen : We deliberately avoid any form of stylistic signature. Instead, I’d say our work reflects a dedication to craftsmanship, a love for color and materiality, and a playful spirit. We thrive on challenging projects where multiple requirements and complexities need to be harmonized into a clear resolution. These situations often present the most rewarding opportunities for us.
CovetED Magazine: How does your creative process begin when you're presented with a new project? Walk us through it.
Michael K Chen : Our projects usually start with a lot of questioning and listening. We engage deeply with clients to understand their needs, values, and concerns. Functional and budgetary requirements are also critical considerations. Since we work directly with people, we aim to find ways to blend their needs with what they value, creating something meaningful. Through this process, we often identify collaborators—both within and outside the office. We seek out experts whose insights could enhance the project. This could include consultants, artists, scientists, or other designers. We work digitally, so we begin by creating precise models of the space or site. Then, like any designer, we iterate, sketch, gather references, and pose challenges to ourselves. Over time, ideas crystallize.
CovetED Magazine: What, in your opinion, is the key to creating something truly unique?
Michael K Chen : Curiosity, active listening, and learning to collaborate effectively.
CovetED Magazine : If you had to pick one project that represents your career and life, which would it be and why?
Michael K Chen : It’s impossible to choose just one! We look for opportunities to learn and grow as a practice. Recently, we've been focusing more on civic and cultural work, which we hope to expand further. Additionally, my husband and I are building a small house in the countryside for ourselves. It’s been a fascinating project—both ambitious and humble.
CovetED Magazine: What message do you hope to convey through your projects to the design world?
Michael K Chen : Our focus has always been to align our work with the values we and our clients hold as individuals and global citizens. As designers, we have a privileged position to promote excellence. For us, that’s not about luxury or the most expensive materials, nor is it about a specific aesthetic. It’s about people, their ideas, and their contributions. We are committed to craftsmanship and ethical sourcing. We’re exploring ways to reduce waste and energy consumption, seeking smaller and more local supply chains, and advocating for fair labor practices. It’s not just about applying labels to existing practices but about digging deeper and challenging our assumptions about beauty and success. Finding the right partners is crucial to achieving this.
CovetED Magazine : In your view, what significant changes has the pandemic brought to the design world?
Michael K Chen : The pandemic has definitely accelerated our practice of remote collaboration, normalizing virtual interactions. Working remotely has allowed us to engage in countless conversations and collaborations thanks to online tools. It has also highlighted many systemic inequalities we face, forcing us to confront whether we should perpetuate them or strive to change them. During the pandemic, we co-founded Design Advocates, a nonprofit network of designers providing services to communities in need. Using tools like Zoom and Miro, it’s been one of the most fulfilling initiatives I’ve been involved in.
CovetED Magazine : Excited to hear about what the future holds for Michael K Chen. What are your next steps?
Michael K Chen : We’re currently designing and constructing several new ground-up buildings, which is a thrilling challenge for an urban practice like ours. We’re also expanding into the public realm, partly through Design Advocates and leveraging our experience in complex urban projects for individuals. Later this year, we’ll launch a furniture collection with TRNK that embodies our ideas about flexible living and the fluidity between living, work, and hospitality spaces. Lastly, we’re growing our team, which is always exciting and inspiring.
“For us, that’s never been about luxury or the most precious materials, nor has it ever been about a signature aesthetic. It’s generally been about people, their ideas, and their labor.†– Michael K Chen
CovetED Magazine : Any advice for young professionals in the design world today?
Michael K Chen : I’d say that every experience and interaction in your professional life presents an opportunity to learn. Many architects and designers, including myself, tend to focus too much on working independently and thinking we need to figure everything out alone. This isn’t true. Acknowledging the limits of your knowledge and taking advantage of the people around you is incredibly empowering and the fastest way to grow.
What do you think about Michael K Chen ’s interior designs? Let us know!
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