Studio W Spotlight: Dinh Nguyen

San Jose, CA—Dinh Nguyen is a Project Designer in Studio W Architects’ San Jose Studio. He has been with the firm for more than four years and has been involved in numerous educational projects, including Serendipity School Modernization in Belmont, CA and the modernization of Building 13 at Cañada College. He recounts the Sowers Middle School New Gymnasium and STEM Academy, as well as Dwyer Middle School Phase 2 Modernization and new Gymnasium and STEM Academy projects, as being the most memorable. Learn more about Dinh …

 

What is your hometown, or where do you live currently, and what do you like about it?

I live in San Jose, CA. One of the reasons why I love San Jose is because most of my family lives here. Also, I like the lifestyle. There are many things to do to keep one busy and entertained.

What is your favorite restaurant or food?

I love noddle soup dishes, so I’d have to say my favorite food is pho.

What is your favorite song, movie or book?

My all-time favorite movies are “The Lord of the Rings” trilogy.

Who is your hero or a person that inspires you?

My wife. She has taught me so much patience, to always work hard in life and to not skip any steps to get to where you want to be. It is the journey that makes you grow stronger.

What is a typical weekend for you (i.e. what are your hobbies, interests, etc.)?

I usually hang out with my family and friends. My wife and I like to just cruise around in our car with our dog. We also ride our electric bicycle around exploring the city.

How did you find architecture?

I grew up loving to draw so design has been at the forefront of my mind since I was in high school. One of my professors during my time in undergrad school told me I think like an architect and should consider getting my master’s degree in architecture. The rest is history.

What is a building and/or destination that inspires you and why?

I love Tadao Ando’s work and the way he brings light into his architecture. I hope to one day be able to travel to Italy because I think it has the most beautiful architecture.

What is your most memorable project and why?

Sowers Middle School and Dwyer Middle School because they were the first two projects I worked on when I started at Studio W Architects.

 

What is your favorite aspect of working at Studio W Architects?

My favorite aspect of working at Studio W is that I feel like I’m part of a family. Everybody loves to help and encourages you to grow professionally.

What project have you worked on at Studio W Architects that made you grow the most professionally? Why?

I would have to say Lipman Middle School Modernization because I’m being given the opportunity to take part in many aspects of the project.