Ming-Lee Yuan joined Olson Kundig in 2005, was named Principal in 2020, and joined the ownership group in 2022.
I love the puzzle of architecture—the process of fitting together the site, context, program, and client needs to create something special. I also enjoy the collaborative effort that unfolds throughout the journey.
Ming‑Lee Yuan
Principal / Owner | AIA, NOMA
With over 25 years of experience across a diverse range of market sectors, she believes architecture can be more than just a beautiful building – it has the potential to make a meaningful impact on its surroundings and the people who interact with it.
Passionate about design that centers human experience, Ming-Lee approaches each project, from private homes to public buildings, with the aim of enhancing the lives of its users and positively impacting the larger community. She especially enjoys working with clients throughout the early programming and planning phases, where the project’s identity and character start to emerge. Ming-Lee focuses on listening and understanding the client’s vision in relation to the site context to deliver architecture that thoughtfully responds to user needs and underscores a connection to nature.
A champion for service both internally and externally, Ming-Lee believes architects have a responsibility to positively contribute to the future of built and natural environments. She prioritizes inclusivity and accessibility, aims to incorporate sustainable practices and materials, and strives for improved building performance and long-term resiliency. Outside of her project work, Ming-Lee is a dedicated mentor and leads the firm’s Social Equity Community.
Projects
Lectures & Juries
2023
IDS Vancouver, The Future of Design on the West Coast, Panelist
IDS Vancouver, Catalogue, Panelist
2022
AIA North Carolina Design Awards Juror
2021
AIA Seattle Honor Awards, Jury Co-Chair
2020
AIA Seattle Honor Awards, Jury Co-Chair
2018
Seattle Design Festival “To House”, in collaboration with Real Change and AIA Committee on Homelessness
2017 – Ongoing
Sawhorse Revolution Design, Mentor & Facilitator
Education
Master of Architecture, University of Washington
Bachelor of Architecture, University of Illinois, Champaign Urbana
Awards
2024
Architectural Digest’s AD100 list, Olson Kundig
2023
Architectural Digest’s AD100 list, Olson Kundig
Architizer A+ Awards, Best Large Firm, Olson Kundig
Mountain Living Magazine, Top Architects and Designers List, Olson Kundig
Ocean Home Magazine, Top 50 Coastal Architects, Olson Kundig
AN Interior, Top 50 Architects & Designers, Olson Kundig
Architect’s Newspaper Best of Practice Awards, Honorable Mention, XL West Firm, Olson Kundig
2022
Architectural Digest, AD100 List, Olson Kundig
AN Interior, Top 50 North American Architects Working In Interiors Today, Olson Kundig
Mountain Living Magazine, Top Architects and Designers List, Olson Kundig
Ocean Home Magazine, Top 50 Coastal Architects, Olson Kundig
2019
SEGD Global Design Awards, Finalist, Tillamook Creamery
2013
AIA National Honor Awards for Architecture, Honor Award, Art Stable
Architizer A+ Popular Choice Awards, Finalist, Residential Mid-Rise (5-15 floors), Art Stable
2012
European Centre and Chicago Athenaeum International Architecture Awards, International Architecture Award, Art Stable
2011
Residential Architect Design Awards, Project of the Year, Art Stable
AIA National Housing Awards,
AIA National Housing Award, Art Stable
AIA Northwest and Pacific Region Honor Awards, Honor Award, Art Stable
AIA Seattle Honor Awards, Honor Award, Art Stable
2010
AIA Seattle Honor Awards, Citation, Art Stable Hinge