Thao founded studio t(h)ao in 2023 after freelancing since 2017. She received her Bachelor of Architecture from SCI-Arc. Thao oversees and supports the overall process of every project from inception to completion.
Her professional career began with internships at SFA Design and Platform for Architecture + Research leading to work experiences at Andmore Partners, Inc and Nardi Associates LLP. Thao has worked on a wide range of projects with an emphasis on custom single-family residences, mixed-use developments, and ADU projects in the Southern California region.
Thao has high appreciation for all things design and loves to work with her hands. Outside of architecture and inside her workshop, Thao indulges with materials ranging from wood to fabric to make things. After all, she is a maker at heart.
Studio Thao, Arcadia, CA, US, Principal & Founder
Andmore Partners, inc., Los Angeles, CA, Junior Designer
Assisted Principal/Design Director in 65-unit apartment (45,000sf), Olympic Medical Building (10,440sf), Melody House (3,500sf), WMC Meditation Center Master Plan.
Developed and explored design alternatives, code analysis, building detailing, and integration of building systems (structure, MEP, landscape) throughout the design process.
Produced presentation drawings that communicated design concept to clients.
Assisted in selection and presentation of furniture, fabrics and equipment (FF&E).
Built physical models using foam, basswood, museum board and 3D printed parts.
Platform for Architecture + Research (PAR), Los Angeles, CA, Architectural Intern
Performed design computations, model-building to scale, graphic representation, and renderings for residential and institutional projects.
Worked closely with the Principal in designing the Guggenheim Museum in Helsinki Competition from schematic design to submission phases (submission was one of ArchDaily's top 50 of 1715 entries).
Collaborated with team members to prepare working drawings and construction documents, correcting and updating drawings for T-House (a two-story, single family residence in Washington, DC).
sfa Design, Los Angeles, CA, Intern
Assisted Senior Designers in hospitality and residential projects, color boards and design research.
Contacted vendors for pricing, availability and samples.
Maintained and organized material library.
PCC Architecture Gallery + Exhibit, Pasadena, CA, Curator
One of two students selected by the head of architecture to curate and showcase recent architectural work of approximately 30 students for the end of year exhibit.
Southern California Institute of Architecture (SCI-Arc), Los Angeles, CA, US, BArch, Architecture
Work Selected for SCI-Arc's Spring Show, Other
SCI-Arc Continuing Merit Scholarship, Scholarship
Work Selected for SCI-Arc's Spring Show, Other
SCI-Arc Continuing Merit Scholarship, Scholarship
SCI-Arc Admissions Scholarship, Scholarship
The Jean Roth Driskel Scholarship, Nomination
1:2 AIA|LA Interior Architecture Competition, Honorable Mention
