memberSPOTLIGHT < Calvin Hean
Calvin Hean
Emerging Professionals Chair
Confluence
Omaha, Nebraska
When did you realize you wanted to become a Landscape Architect?
I discovered landscape architecture as a sophomore at Iowa State University. Initially, I had planned to study engineering, but realized landscape architecture would allow me to use my creativity and love for drawing. Landscape architecture was a much better fit for me, and I never looked back!
What is your favorite landscape, and why?
Gas Works Park, in Seattle, comes to mind. I just love the way Richard Haag incorporated parts of the old gasification plant, maintaining the identity of the place, while also capping contaminated soil beneath the great mound. Much like Rome, the park feels like an open-air museum where the history of the site is embraced rather than replaced.
I am a member because I know ASLA offers opportunities to learn, make connections, and grow both individually and together as a profession.
What is the most important thing you have learned since joining the profession?
The ability to collaborate is just as important as the ability to design and create. Know your strengths and learn the strengths of your colleagues and work with what you have. Also, present your ideas confidently but never get too attached to your own ideas. That is just ego.
What is one item you cannot live without?
My pencils. My father and I both are pencil nerds, and we often trade pencils as gifts, or he might just hand one down to me. Over the years, I have gained a pretty nice variety to my collection, and I love to travel with them in case I feel like sketching or writing.
What is something you find joy in other than landscape architecture?
Cooking. Cooking is a great way to save money, live healthier, and experience different cultures without having to buy a plane ticket. Recently, my go-to recipe is a chicken stir-fry because it is super easy to make, healthy, and delicious!
What do you believe needs to be the next area of innovation in our profession?
I think it is time that we innovate the way we collaborate with other professions. We have so much technology that can allow us to work with each other and ditch the “silo” dynamic often seen between landscape architects, architects, and engineers. I know this may be easier said than done, but if we do this, I believe landscape architects could become the leaders on design teams due to our knowledge of both natural and built environments, creativity, and ability to communicate.
