Meet Mel: An Architect (to be) and Artist with a Passion for Sketching
Mel’s journey began in the mountainous regions of Colorado and the scenic oceanside of Washington State. Surrounded by breathtaking landscapes, she developed her artistic style early on. As a child, Mel delighted in drawing cartoon characters on Valentine’s Day cards using colored pencils.
In high school, she transitioned from cartoons to more realistic art forms. Mel experimented with watercolors, drawn to their vibrant color intensities. During her college years, she embarked on an exciting adventure—studying abroad in Italy. There, she honed her skills by sketching historical landmarks in Rome, using pen, ink, and watercolor as her preferred mediums.
After graduating from UC Berkeley with dual degrees in Architecture and Art Practice, Mel’s career took her across continents. She joined Henning Larsen Architects, starting in Copenhagen and later helping to establish the regional office in Hong Kong. Asia’s rich history and diverse culture captivated her, inspiring sketches that documented her travels—from ancient temples to modern skyscrapers.
Mel’s recent accomplishment? Completing her Master’s degree in Architecture. Now, she channels her creativity into designing sustainable low-income housing projects in the Bay Area. Mel is also available for freelance work and commissions.