Design is often where creativity meets reality — but for Jacky Tian, it begins with understanding how people experience space.
With a background shaped by both design and construction, Jacky brings a thoughtful, human-centred perspective to his work. From large-scale residential projects to the details that define everyday living, his approach is grounded in adaptability, collaboration, and a deep respect for how spaces are used and felt.
Who or what inspired your passion to work in architecture?
My passion for architecture grew from a blend of intuitive creativity and influence. I was initially deeply interested in fashion and textile design, drawn to how materials, form and aesthetics interact with the human body. Growing up around a family business in the construction industry also gave me early exposure to how ideas become built reality. Over time, I began to see strong parallels between fashion and architecture. Both are rooted in design that responds to human experience, balancing function, proportion and aesthetics. That realization ultimately led me to pursue architecture as a way to merge my creative interests with a lasting, tangible impact on how people inhabit and experience space.
What brings you joy outside of the office?
Outside of the office, I find the most joy in connecting with nature, which is one of the main reasons I relocated back to Vancouver from New York City. Being surrounded by the city’s natural landscape is incredibly grounding and often underestimated in how essential it is for overall well-being. The wide range of outdoor activities, from casual hikes through the woods to camping next to a lake, offers endless opportunities to unwind and recharge. Spending time outdoors helps me return to work feeling refreshed, balanced and inspired.
What has been your favourite or most rewarding project you’ve worked on at S2 so far? Why? What lessons did you learn along the way?
My most rewarding project at S2 has been The Edgewater, where I’ve been part of the team from the DP submission through the Design Development phase. As my first experience working on a large-scale mixed-use residential project, it was an invaluable learning opportunity. I came to understand that architectural design isn’t just about a designer’s vision, but about helping clients solve real-world problems. From redesigning unit plans to optimizing space and coordinating mechanical placements, to specifying exterior materials and detailing balconies and terraces with a careful balance between cost and aesthetics, every decision required thoughtful problem-solving. I also gained insight into construction phasing, as the project was divided into two phases: a daycare and a residential tower. The experience reinforced that completing a project is an ever-evolving journey, and as designers, we must remain adaptable, collaborative and solution-oriented.
Stay Grounded: How do you prioritize the well-being of your team, the environment, and the community in your professional endeavours? Share a specific example of how this approach has contributed to the success of a project or initiative in your career.
To me, “Staying Grounded” means approaching architecture with empathy and a deep awareness of how design shapes people’s daily lives. I believe architecture shouldn’t exist simply as something beautiful—it should connect with its users and elevate the experiences of the diverse groups of people who interact with space every day. Thoughtful design has the power to influence how people move, feel and interact, and that responsibility is what drew me to architecture among other design disciplines.
What do you love most about being on the S2 team?
What I love most about being on the S2 team is the people. Everyone is incredibly supportive and resourceful, which makes a real difference in such a complex and dynamic industry as architecture, where questions and challenges come up every day. S2 creates meaningful opportunities for learning and collaboration through pin-ups and info sessions, but what stands out most is the openness and accessibility of the team. No matter whether someone is in the Vancouver studio or in Calgary or Edmonton, I can always reach out in-person or over Microsoft Teams to find the answers or support I need. The spirit of “Smarter Together” is truly lived here, fostering an environment where everyone grows and thrives together.
