About Us

Hello! I’m Emily Parker — a 29-year-old architect living and working in the historic city of Xi’an, China. Originally from Melbourne, Australia, I made the move to Xi’an three years ago, and it’s been an incredible journey of discovery ever since. As someone passionate about architecture and travel, I find Xi’an to be the perfect place where my two loves beautifully intersect.

Working in architectural design here is nothing short of inspiring. Xi’an is a city where ancient history and modern development exist side by side, a living museum with vibrant urban life. Every day, I’m surrounded by layers of culture — from the towering city walls and the Terracotta Warriors to sleek new skyscrapers and creative urban spaces. This unique blend fuels my creativity and challenges me to think beyond conventional design, to respect the past while imagining the future.

My professional work focuses mainly on sustainable urban design and integrating historical elements into modern architecture. I’m fascinated by how the city’s heritage can shape its growth without losing its soul. For me, architecture is not just about buildings — it’s about telling stories through space, texture, and light. Every project I touch is a conversation between the old and the new, and Xi’an provides endless inspiration for this dialogue.

When it comes to traveling, I don’t just see it as a way to escape or relax — for me, travel is a vital part of how I understand architecture, culture, and life itself. Living in Xi’an, surrounded by some of China’s most famous historical sites, has deepened my appreciation for how people interact with their environment over time. I often explore lesser-known areas around the city, seeking out hidden temples, traditional neighborhoods, and local markets. These excursions remind me that architecture is alive — it’s shaped by people’s daily lives and their relationship with place.

Weekends often find me venturing out to nearby destinations that combine natural beauty with cultural richness. For example, I love hiking up Mount Huashan — the challenge of the steep paths and the breathtaking views reward every step. It’s a perfect reminder of how human perseverance and nature coexist. I’ve also spent time exploring the ancient Silk Road towns like Tongguan and Hancheng, where the architecture tells stories of trade, migration, and cultural exchange that shaped this region for centuries.

I view travel as a kind of hands-on research that informs my architectural vision. Seeing different styles, materials, and urban rhythms helps me bring fresh ideas back to my work. For instance, after a trip to Lijiang, I was inspired by how traditional Naxi wooden houses blend seamlessly with the natural landscape — an influence I’ve tried to incorporate into a current project focusing on eco-friendly design. I’m always on the lookout for that delicate balance between preserving heritage and embracing innovation.

Another aspect I treasure about living in Xi’an is the lifestyle — it’s a city that embraces tradition yet is vibrant and welcoming. I enjoy strolling along the city walls at sunset, when the whole city seems to glow with a golden light. The street food here is incredible, and I never tire of sampling hand-pulled noodles, roujiamo (the famous Xi’an burger), and spicy lamb skewers. Food, architecture, and culture are inseparable here, and that intersection fascinates me.

In my free time, I like to document my travels and architectural observations through photography and sketching. There’s something deeply satisfying about capturing a moment — whether it’s the intricate detail of a carved doorframe or the play of shadows in a narrow alley. These images often become a source of inspiration and reflection, feeding back into my design process. I believe that architecture is as much about emotion and memory as it is about form and function.

Living and working in Xi’an has also given me a fresh perspective on what it means to be a global citizen. I’ve met people from all over the world — locals, fellow expats, and travelers — each bringing their own stories and viewpoints. This diversity enriches my understanding of how architecture can foster community and connection across cultures.

Looking ahead, I’m excited about continuing to explore how design can honor history while pushing boundaries. I dream of leading projects that not only create beautiful, functional spaces but also celebrate the spirit of Xi’an — its resilience, creativity, and deep-rooted sense of identity.

I’m Emily Parker — an architect, traveler, and storyteller. Through every building I design and every journey I take, I seek to bridge past and future, place and people, tradition and innovation. Xi’an is my canvas, and I’m just beginning to paint my story here.