Today we’d like to introduce you to Sherly (Tongtong) Zhang.
Hi Sherly (Tongtong), please kick things off for us with an introduction to yourself and your story.
Since childhood, an innate eagerness to witness and embrace the diverse facets of the world has been embedded within me, shaping the person I am today.
I was born in Beijing, a city rich in culture but with a diverse population — my high school classmates’ parents hailed from 15 different provinces in China, plus one from Korea. Growing up, I heard stories vastly different from my own experiences, fueling my interest in places around the globe.
I took the first step as soon as I turned 18 – leaving Beijing and going to Hong Kong for my undergrad. During those years, I traveled through several Southeast Asian countries, did exchanges in Cambridge and Vancouver, and eventually landed in the United States for my Master’s program at Harvard University’s Graduate School of Design. I stretched the two-year program into three by taking a gap year to intern and explore Europe.
No matter where I go, I love the thrill of adventure, whether in the beauty of nature or observing people in urban spaces. I can’t quite remember why I chose Landscape Architecture as my undergrad major, but one day, sitting in a small park and seeing a few elderly chatting under the shade, it clicked—the profession is about creating functional spaces and immersive experiences for people.
After earning my Master’s, I began my professional journey in NYC, but the fantastic weather led me to LA. It’s been nearly three years now, and I’m loving every moment. Planning to stick around here for a while longer!
We all face challenges, but looking back would you describe it as a relatively smooth road?
It has not. But it has always been more sweet than bitterness:)
On one hand – as a landscape designer, I’ve had my doubts—wondering if this is really my thing. I’ve turned my attention elsewhere more times than I can count. But each time, I come back with a bit more certainty that landscape architecture is where I belong. It’s not a lucrative career, and the work-life balance isn’t perfect. The true sense of accomplishment, for me, lies in witnessing a space come to life and being enjoyed by people. This gratification is delayed, as projects can span over a decade before realization. Fortunately, the enduring sense of accomplishment serves as a profound source of motivation, surpassing all other considerations.
On the other hand – one persistent challenge I grapple with personally is the sense of rootlessness. For quite some time, the question “Where are you from?” has posed a dilemma, with Beijing feeling more like a distant yet familiar childhood hometown. While my stays in other places have been sweet, they remain akin to fleeting “guest experiences.” This sentiment often hit me unexpectedly, halting a few important life decisions. I am still trying to figure this out, but perhaps Los Angeles holds the key 🙂
Appreciate you sharing that. What else should we know about what you do?
I work as a landscape architect, and my job involves crafting diverse outdoor spaces, ranging from residential gardens to parks, plazas, or even an expansive urban district.
I believe Landscape Architecture is a profession with the power to positively transform the world, seamlessly blending aesthetics with responsibility. It infuses beauty into everyday environments, introduces greenery into concrete jungles, and provides a breath of fresh air in the hustle of city life. Moreover, it stands at the forefront of addressing climate change. A great landscape design must not only be aesthetically pleasing but also socially and environmentally responsible, catering to the needs of both the immediate community it serves and the broader global context.
I take great pride in having contributed to projects spanning the globe—across the States, Saudi Arabia, China, Singapore, Europe, and beyond. Some of these projects have been recognized with awards:) The scales of these projects also vary greatly; at one point, we were conceptualizing a new city in China! What makes my work particularly fulfilling is that it seamlessly aligns with my personal quest. Each project in a different country or city becomes an opportunity to delve into unique geographies, engage with diverse cultures, and connect with the locals. It’s more than just a job; it’s an extension of my lifelong pursuit.
So maybe we end on discussing what matters most to you and why?
Personal integrity holds the utmost significance in my life. While my inclination is to venture outward and explore, I find myself consistently turning inward to maintain a solid core. Throughout the years, I’ve been on a journey of self-acceptance, acknowledging both my strengths and shortcomings and discerning what truly brings me joy and contentment. Waking up each morning in a state of confidence and comfort is my top priority!
In my perspective, comprehending oneself lays the foundation for understanding others, and embracing self-love is the prerequisite for extending love to others.
Contact Info:
- Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/sherlyzhg/
- Linkedin: https://www.linkedin.com/in/tongtong-sherly-zhang-9162397b/
