Gensler Voices: Joan Megan Ng on the Beauty of Design

This Q&A is part of a series of interviews with Gensler architects, designers, and others in the firm about their career journey, and the impact that design and architecture can have on our communities and the human experience. Here, we sit down with Joan Megan Ng, Gensler Singapore:

Did you have a mentor growing up or at any point during your career? If so, how did that relationship impact your growth as a person or in the industry at large?

Yes, I do have a mentor I found in Gensler where she inspires me, stretches my ability and competence, connects me and taught me a great deal about communication and professionalism. I am a quiet person by nature, and prefer to work behind the scene, but Vivian took me out of my comfort zone and truly I have grown personally and professionally because of her. She was more than my mentor; she was my buddy, my coach, and I am proud to call her my friend.

How has your work mindset shifted as you’ve advanced in your career?

As the industry is very creative and dynamic, I’ve found over time not to dwell too much on problems, and just figure out what’s right for me and where do I need to start.

One of the most consistent thoughts I have daily is that I am happy to come to work with a passion. I found I am deeply fulfilled and enjoy my work. I realized it may be a rare thing to have that your passion and work are intertwined. It is such a blessing to be able to come to work daily with a happy fulfilled feelings.

What’s life at Gensler like?

Collaborative working environment, fast paced, very open culture to learn and continue to be challenged at work. I am proud as a part of the Finance team at Gensler.

How were you first introduced to architecture and design?

I am very much attracted to think about a space and fill in with furniture that don’t follow trends or fashion but practical use. I may not have design background as I am a Project Accountant in Gensler, but being in Gensler and being exposed to the business side of architecture and design then I learned that design is more than just a space and furniture. It is a beautiful combination of visionary dreams, creativity, as well as end user realism.