Yun Gui, the director of the esteemed architectural firm LSM, is a forward-thinking architect recognized internationally for her innovative approaches that seamlessly combine cutting-edge design with a strong emphasis on sustainability.
Operating out of Washington, D.C., Yun has positioned herself as a prominent figure in architecture, creating environments that cater to their users while also advancing eco-friendly practices.
Her career showcases a commitment to excellence, highlighted by her transformation of corporate workspaces and her trailblazing efforts in sustainable infrastructures across both the United States and Europe.
Before reaching her current status, Yun was raised in a family of architects, which immersed her in the design world from an early age. She began using professional engineering tools in elementary school and developed a passion for architectural models. This foundational experience provided her with a distinctive perspective that has influenced her approach to challenges with both creativity and tenacity.
Motivated by architects who strive to realize their visions despite real-world limitations, Yun applies this philosophy in her practice, expertly managing budget constraints, material limitations, and client demands to create functional and aesthetically pleasing environments.
Yun’s architectural journey began when she earned a **Bachelor of Science in Architecture from The Ohio State University**. Her undergraduate portfolio, marked by creativity and precision, led her to the prestigious **Harvard University Graduate School of Design**, where she completed her **Master of Architecture degree in 2017**. During her studies, she gained invaluable experience at top firms like Gensler’s Aviation Studio in Los Angeles and Corgan in Dallas. Her work on significant projects, including terminals at **LAX and SFO** and the Dalian Airport competition, not only contributed to design and construction documents but also helped her team achieve finalist status in the competition and ultimately win the **2015 AIA Dallas Unbuilt Architecture Award**.
These initial accomplishments signposted her talent and commitment, predicting her future success.
In 2017, Yun began her tenure at **LSM**, quickly advancing from Architect I to her current role as Director. Under her leadership, more than 40 architects across LSM’s D.C. and **New York offices** have tackled a range of high-profile projects, from adaptive reuse ventures to large commercial developments. Combining her expertise in **Revit, Navisworks, BIM 360, and Autodesk Construction Cloud** with a strong client-centric approach, she is a key player in both the team and project delivery process.
Her design ethos is firmly rooted in sustainability. As a **LEED Green Associate**, she integrates an eco-conscious perspective into each project, consistently ensuring her designs meet or surpass environmental standards.
Noteworthy projects include the **Covington & Burling headquarters in London**, which received the **BREEAM ‘Excellent’ certification**, and the **Xylem Water Solutions headquarters in Washington, D.C.**, an adaptive reuse initiative that achieved LEED Platinum certification. Other current projects, such as the extensive fit-out for **Covington & Burling’s NYC office** and the Amenity Space Design at **South Station Tower in Boston**—a 1-million-square-foot mixed-use skyscraper—showcase Yun’s adeptness in managing large, complex developments while maintaining a commitment to design excellence.
Yun’s leadership has played a crucial role in delivering projects that have earned highly regarded accolades in the architectural realm.
Her expertise is further evident in the **80,000-square-foot Milbank office in London**, one of the city’s pioneering Net-Zero Carbon developments, which has received acclaim from **Interior Design Magazine** for its outstanding design in sustainable architecture. The **K&L Gates office in Boston** reflects her dedication to environmentally conscious and visually striking design, featuring panoramic views and attaining LEED Silver Certification for its **60,000-square-foot** law office and amenity space, highlighting her commitment to both sustainability and aesthetic appeal.
Yun continues to influence the field through her work on groundbreaking projects, such as London’s first carbon-neutral skyscraper, where she acts as the principal design consultant for tenant amenities and office areas.
Beyond her project contributions, Yun is an engaged thought leader, sharing her insights on workplace design, sustainability, and emerging trends. She has participated in panels at significant industry events like **Boston’s Teknion Roundtable** and **NeoCon’s Chicago Design Days**, where her opinions have shaped discussions on sustainable architecture and efficient workspaces.
Staying connected with the wider industry, she is actively involved with organizations such as the Harvard Club of D.C. and CREBA, enhancing her network and continuously drawing knowledge from other leaders in the field.
Yun’s aspirations are both ambitious and strategic, as she is determined to take on roles focused on business at LSM, where she will steer the firm’s portfolio and project strategy. As Director, she guides projects while mentoring the upcoming generation of architects, supporting their development and career growth.
In the coming decade, Yun envisions a significant role in advancing LSM’s mission and spearheading influential projects that set new benchmarks in sustainability and design.
With a focus on transformative and sustainable initiatives, Yun Gui’s career is a testament to vision, dedication, and resilience. As a pioneer, she continually redefines the architectural landscape, creating spaces that leave a lasting impact on cities, industries, and lives.
About the Author
Clara Mitchell is a New York-based writer specializing in sustainable design innovations and profiling leading figures in contemporary architecture. She enjoys exploring global architectural landmarks and advocates for environmentally friendly building practices.
