Meet Crystal Wong of Los Angeles

Today we’d like to introduce you to Crystal Wong

Hi Crystal, we’re thrilled to have a chance to learn your story today. So, before we get into specifics, maybe you can briefly walk us through how you got to where you are today?
Hello! My name is Crystal Wong. I am a licensed architect and a creator involved in all things related to art, jewelry, and clothing. I grew up in a small country called Macau, located adjacent to Hong Kong, which was once a Portuguese colony. It’s also known as the “Las Vegas of Asia.” My family and I moved to the United States when I started high school.

My journey into architecture began in the 11th grade at high school, when my boss at a boba place asked what I wanted to major in. I immediately replied, “Fashion design!” She told me it might be too competitive and asked what my second choice was. After some thought, I enthusiastically said, “Accounting!” She responded with, “Math? That’s boring.” Then she suggested I try architecture, as it combines both design and mathematics. I gave it a shot, and when I found out I could take community college-level classes for free as a high school student, I signed up for an Intro to Architecture course. That class changed my life. I was particularly inspired by the Pantheon in Rome, Italy. Eventually, I decided to pursue a degree in architecture at Woodbury University in Burbank, where I earned my Bachelor of Architecture.

Architecture is a demanding field. I often say that creativity doesn’t conform to a 9-to-5 schedule—it strikes unexpectedly, whether you’re driving to work, standing in line at a coffee shop, or even in the shower. While working at an affordable housing firm, I routinely put in 16-hour days. Most of my design work happened after hours when the office was quiet. I was quickly thrust into managing multi-million-dollar projects, learning a great deal about the practice of architecture. However, those long hours took a toll on my health, and I developed a hyperthyroid condition.

After years of researching natural healing methods and pursuing a more sustainable, toxin-free lifestyle, I began to find my purpose in architecture. This past June, I celebrated the 10th anniversary of my firm, R.E.A.L.|cw Architecture, based in Los Angeles. After spending five years at the affordable housing firm and a few more at a firm that did the opposite kind of work, I decided to start my own practice, focusing exclusively on creating sustainable and healthful spaces for homeowners and business owners. My goal is to design spaces that make people feel good—places that can serve as their personal sanctuaries, their little piece of heaven on Earth.

We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
Life is never easy—without the rocky roads, you wouldn’t appreciate the smooth highways as much. As I briefly mentioned, after working all those long hours, I developed a hyperthyroid condition. When I first started my practice, I was so focused on growing the business that I put my health second. I did manage to cut back to 12-hour days, and I kept that pace for the first five years while studying for my architect licensing exams—all seven of them. My business grew, and I earned my license, but my health quickly declined. In 2021, I suffered a mild stroke due to a thyroid storm. Since then, I’ve made my health my top priority. Self-care is now the first thing I focus on each day, and my business comes second.

Thanks – so what else should our readers know about your work and what you’re currently focused on?
I’ve always had an affinity for art and creation since I was young. Bringing something from my imagination into reality has always inspired me—whether through painting, sketching, making jewelry, or now, designing buildings. While I enjoy mathematics, my true passion lies in creating. When I attended Woodbury University, I initially thought I could pursue a double major or minor in fashion design, which they offered, but I quickly realized that architecture demanded 150% of my time. That’s perfectly fine, though, because I love what I do. I believe that to be truly happy, you have to love your work.

I specialize in working with homeowners and business owners to bring their dream homes or office spaces to life. My approach is flexible in style because I believe the spaces I design should reflect the people who live or work in them, not my personal preferences. After all, they are the ones who will experience and enjoy these spaces every day. I also believe sustainability is no longer just a design choice—it’s a necessity. Buildings account for 40% of global energy consumption, and sustainable practices are now embedded in the Building Code, so I make sure that every project meets those standards.

During my personal healing journey, I discovered Feng Shui, the ancient practice of arranging buildings, spaces, and furniture to optimize energy flow and enhance the environment. One key principle of Feng Shui is the use of color to improve energy flow, which also has psychological effects. I incorporate this philosophy into my design practice, using color thoughtfully to shape how a space feels. The well-being and experience of those who occupy the spaces I design are always my top priority.

Is there something surprising that you feel even people who know you might not know about?
I’ve been working on this for a while now. I’m launching my own YouTube channel, where I’ll be sharing sustainable and healthful building techniques, along with a vlog called Architect’s Day Off. Oh, and also the fact that I have over 100 indoor plants…

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.real-arch.com
• Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/creatingwithcryztal/
• Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/creatingwithcryztal