Nhi joined Hansen’s Melbourne office in early 2024, bringing experience in both architecture and urban planning. At Hansen, Nhi works closely with the Urban Design and Strategic Planning teams on design evidence, reports, impact assessments, and structure plans. We chatted with Nhi about what drew her to urban design, what she enjoys outside of work, and why she really likes doors.

What first drew you to urban design?

My journey from architecture to urban design was driven by a desire to understand the bigger picture. I realised that while buildings are important, it’s the interactions between all parts of a city that make it truly come alive.

Back at Uni, I was focused on how individual structures could impact people’s lives, and I saw them as singular, defining elements of a city. Looking back, I realised I was quite naive in my thinking. Over time, I came to understand that a city is so much more than just a collection of buildings—it’s a multilayered organism, where every aspect, from streets to public spaces to green areas, contributes to the overall experience.

Is there a particular design feature or element you find interesting?

I love a door. There’s something fascinating about the transition space they represent. One minute, you’re in one space, and with a simple turn of the handle, you’re transported to a completely different environment. It’s such a subtle yet powerful shift, almost like a threshold between two worlds. Plus, doors themselves are unique—whether it’s their material, design, or the way they open, each door has its own character and story to tell. I think they capture the essence of transition, movement, and change, which is why they always spark my curiosity.

What’s something you’re passionate about outside of work?

Walking and running are more than just physical activities for me—they’re moments of mindfulness, where I can reconnect with the world around me and take a break from the constant noise of everyday life.

If you could improve one urban space in Melbourne, what would you change?

If I could improve one urban space in Melbourne, I would convert all the car parking spaces into public parks. I love the idea of encouraging people to use public transport, ride bikes, or take scooters instead of driving. Not only would this help reduce traffic and pollution, but it would also create more green spaces for the community to enjoy. Replacing parking lots with parks would help reduce the urban heat island effect, making the city cooler and more pleasant to live in as well.

What’s something about you that might surprise people? 

Something that might surprise people about me is that back when I was in university, I worked as an rpm cycling instructor. It’s not something many people expect to hear, but it gave me the opportunity to work on my communication skills, patience, and ability to motivate others. Plus, it was a great way to stay active and connect with my local community while balancing my studies. It’s one of those unique experiences that I don’t often bring up, but it definitely shaped me in a lot of positive ways.

What’s a city or place that has inspired your work?

Japan and minimalism are major influences on my work. The Japanese approach to design, with its focus on simplicity, clean lines, and a deep connection to nature, speaks to my appreciation for spaces that feel open and uncluttered. Minimalism, as seen in Japanese architecture and interiors, teaches me the power of restraint—where less truly becomes more. It’s about creating calm, thoughtful environments that allow for clarity and focus, which I strive to bring into my own designs.

If you could create one rule for how cities should be designed, what would it be?

I would ask the question “Would you live here?” If we’re designing a 100-storey buildings, I’d ask myself, ‘Would I want to live in this structure?’ If the answer is no, then why would we design it for someone else? When we centre the question around whether we would want to live in these spaces, it encourages us to think more holistically about factors like the environment, accessibility, safety, and community.

Lastly, if you could master any skill, what would it be?

If I could instantly master any skill, it would be the ability to communicate in every language. Language is such a powerful tool for connection, and being able to converse with anyone, anywhere in the world, would open up so many opportunities to learn, share ideas, and build relationships.