Michael K Chen Architecture is a design studio that offers creative and high-quality work for clients who seek thoughtful and well-considered design. MKCA combines architecture, interior design, and product design through a collaborative and integrated process. They have experience working on projects of various scales, from individual apartments to single-family homes and larger buildings. We had the chance to speak with Michael K Chen himself—read on to discover why his firm is one of the most sought-after in the industry today!
CovetED Magazine : Can you tell us about your journey in the design world? How did your passion for architecture begin?
Michael K Chen : I was always drawing and building things as a kid. I decided I wanted to be an architect at the age of six, and it just stuck.
CovetED Magazine : You started your company in your apartment in 2011. What were the main challenges, and what motivated you to take this step?
Michael K Chen : Before that, I worked on small projects, first with a friend and later alone between office jobs and teaching. In 2011, I landed a big project that required a team. We started with two people in a sublet office, then grew into a shared space, and gradually built our practice. I always wanted to run my own firm, but the idea of building a team really excited me. Working with diverse individuals has made our work richer and more interesting. It’s something I’ve always wanted, and once the opportunity came, it became about building and sustaining that team. That’s the hardest and most rewarding part of running a practice—it forced me to learn how to manage people, bring out their best work, and run the office smartly—things not taught in school.
CovetED Magazine : How would you describe your design style?
Michael K Chen : We avoid any visual signature or style. Instead, we focus on craftsmanship, color, materiality, and play. We love complex, challenging projects and enjoy intricacy. I find it most rewarding when there are multiple requirements, complexities, and voices that need to come together in harmony.
CovetED Magazine: How do you start a new project? Can you share your creative process?
Michael K Chen : Most of our projects are client-driven, so we start by asking questions and listening. We discuss the project's values, concerns, functionality, and budget. Since we work with people, we try to understand both what they need and what they value, and look for ways to combine these. Through this process, we often identify collaborators—consultants, artists, designers, scientists, or others. We use digital models from the beginning and iterate, sketch, collect images, and solve problems over time.
CovetED Magazine: What’s the secret to creating something unique?
Michael K Chen : Curiosity, listening, and learning to work well with others.
CovetED Magazine : If you could name one project that defines your career, which would it be and why?
Michael K Chen : It's impossible to choose! We look for opportunities to grow as a practice. We're doing more civic and cultural work, which we'd like to continue. While not a career-defining project, my husband and I are building a small house in the country—a very interesting process—ambitious yet humble.
CovetED Magazine: What message do you want to convey through your work?
Michael K Chen : Our priority has been connecting our work to the values we and our clients hold. As designers, we have a responsibility to promote excellence—not luxury or materials, but people, ideas, and labor. We focus on craftsmanship and its broader implications, aiming to reduce waste, use local materials, and consider workers' rights. It's about finding the right partners and rethinking beauty and value.
CovetED Magazine : What impact has the pandemic had on the design world, in your view?
Michael K Chen : The pandemic accelerated collaboration, normalizing remote work. It also highlighted structural inequalities, prompting us to create Design Advocates—a network providing design services to underserved communities via Zoom and Miro. It's one of the best experiences in my career.
CovetED Magazine : What are your plans for the future?
Michael K Chen : We're designing and building new houses for the first time, which is exciting. We're also expanding into public projects and launching a furniture collection with TRNK that explores flexible living spaces. We’re growing our team, which is always fun and rewarding.
“For us, that’s never been about luxury or the most precious materials, nor has it ever been about a signature aesthetic. It’s generally been about people, their ideas, and their labor.†– Michael K Chen
CovetED Magazine : What advice would you give to young professionals today?
Michael K Chen : Every experience and person is an opportunity to learn. Many architects and designers think they must figure everything out alone, but that’s not true. Recognizing your limits and relying on others can be empowering and the fastest way to grow.
What do you think about Michael K Chen ‘s interior designs? Let us know!
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