Liwei was interviewed by ASLA’s The Field for their ‘Voices of Women in Landscape Architecture’ series in summer 2024. Below is an excerpt; read the piece in its original context here.

What inspired you to pursue a career in landscape architecture?

I grew up in Hangzhou, a city with harmonious relations of mountains, rivers, lakes, and urban areas. The integration of natural and artificial elements in my hometown has always inspired me. Designing spaces that respect both ethical and cultural perspectives is a challenge but can significantly benefit the public. I wish to develop innovative approaches that address contemporary issues and provide beautiful experiences accessible to everyone. Motivated by these aspirations, I devoted myself to the field of landscape architecture after completing my undergraduate studies in architecture.

Who are the female role models who have influenced your career?

Caitlyn Clauson was one of my principals during my work at Sasaki. She is an urban planner with a comprehensive and intelligent approach. She manages to maintain precise control over project details while accurately capturing the big picture. Dedicated to community engagement, she ensures that she listens to everyone involved. Caitlyn is always loving, collaborative, supportive, and committed to helping the environment become a just space.

Gena Wirth, ASLA, was one of my instructors during my graduate studies at Harvard GSD. From her, I learned every quality a landscape architect could aspire to possess. She is exceptionally talented and knowledgeable about every stage of landscape design while maintaining an intellectual vision of the overarching social, spatial, and ecological framework. She supported my research on butterflies as non-human agents, which opened up new perspectives on urban ecological restoration.

Additionally, there are many extraordinary female role models who have always inspired me. Influential scholars like Ruth Bader Ginsburg and Hannah Arendt, along with landscape architects such as Elizabeth K. Meyer, FASLA, from UVA, Danielle Choi, Jungyoon Kim, ASLA, and Rosalea Monacella from the GSD, have all played an important role in shaping my career. There are also loving colleagues from Sasaki who help me all the time: Anna Cawrse, ASLA, Muhan Cui, ASLA, Zixuan Tai, Felicia Jiang, and others.

What advice do you have for other women pursuing a career in landscape architecture?

I advise exploring disciplines beyond landscape architecture to deepen and enrich the research and practice of landscape architecture.

Can you share with us a project you are particularly proud of and why?

I am proud of a project I worked on at Sasaki: the UC Berkeley Accessible Paths and Places Master Plan. This project includes reviewing the historical campus plan and existing conditions, categorizing and applying ADA compliance, engaging the community, and conducting landscape spatial and experiential studies. It envisions a new campus with meandering pathways, social gathering spaces, and accessible ramps integrated into the picturesque environment. The project aims to promote social justice by creating a new campus framework that is accessible, experiential, and usable by everyone.

What advice would you give your younger self?

Read extensively and engage in public speaking opportunities as much as you can. Collaborate with people from diverse backgrounds and perspectives, learning from their experiences and forging friendships. Be brave, confident, and self-aware.