Career at gmp Europe: Unlocking Opportunities in Global Architecture Firms

Welcome to the ArchK Mentor Talk series, where expert insights meet practical advice to power your career journey!

In this series, ArchK mentors share their personal experiences, challenges, and proven strategies for job searches and career advancement in the architecture industry. Gain firsthand knowledge from professionals who have successfully navigated the field, providing you with the tools and confidence to sharpen your skills and advance your career.

About the Event:

What’s it like to work at a firm that bridges European design rigor with global reach? What does it take to land a role at a practice like that? Beyond design ability, it requires strategic career planning, cultural adaptability, and a deep understanding of how global practices operate.

This session offers a behind-the-scenes look at Gerkan, Marg and Partners (gmp), a German architecture firm known for its disciplined design philosophy and iconic projects across Europe and Asia. With offices in Germany, Vietnam, and across China, gmp represents a unique fusion of European architectural tradition and international design practice.

Led by Yanling, an architecture designer at gmp, this talk will explore gmp’s design philosophy, work culture, and the essential qualities it looks for in talent. From day-to-day project involvement to navigating cross-cultural teams, you will gain practical insights to stand out in today’s competitive architectural landscape.

What You'll Learn:

• gmp’s Global Vision with European Roots: Explore gmp’s approach to architecture, shaped by German precision and expanded through a strong presence in China and beyond.
• Key Qualities International Firms Look For: Learn what gmp values in new hires—from essential skills and software proficiency to cultural awareness and a collaborative mindset.
• Behind the Curtain: Life at gmp: Gain insight into Yanling’s experience at gmp, including daily responsibilities, project highlights, and lessons from working on international teams.
• Working Across Cultures: Understand how gmp adapts its design process across different regions, and what this means for young professionals entering global practices.
  

About Our Speaker:

Yanling is an architectural designer at gmp Hamburg, specializing in high-rise buildings, office campuses, and stadiums. With a strong passion for creating simplified yet contextually responsive designs, he strives to balance aesthetics and functionality while looking for the unique potential inside each design task.

He has played a key role in several high-profile competitions, contributing to the success of winning projects such as the Sino Power Headquarters and the Sanhome R&D Campus. His experience spans concept design, design development, and collaborative teamwork, ensuring thoughtful and well-executed architectural solutions.

About Our Host:

Krystin Che, founder of ArchK, is a versatile designer with a robust background in urban, architectural, and interior design, holding a Master’s in Advanced Architectural Design from the University of Pennsylvania. Her professional experience spans impactful projects at Gensler, including NEOM’s The Line in Saudi Arabia and several urban master plans, such as Avon Lake and Roosevelt Square in Chicago. With expertise in developing sustainable and community-oriented designs, Krystin has also received awards like the A+Awards Jury Winner and the American Architecture Prize.

Over her career, Krystin has helped over 500 students secure top-tier job offers in the architecture field. Her mentorship emphasizes building strong portfolios and mastering essential design and presentation skills, making her an invaluable guide for students aiming to excel in competitive job markets.

Who Should Attend:

This workshop is perfect for architecture students, recent graduates, and early-career professionals looking to navigate the job market. Whether you're just starting to craft your portfolio, preparing for your first interviews, or seeking to elevate your application to leading firms like gmp, this session offers valuable tools and insights for every stage of your job search journey. No matter where you are — in Europe, Asia, or North America — if you're aiming for an international design career, this session is for you.

Don't miss out this valuable opportunity to understand what firms like gmp look for, how to present your experience effectively, and what it takes to thrive in a cross-cultural design environment!

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