Sophie Yan started teaching at Lawrence Technological University as an adjunct professor of interior design in the fall of 2023. A year later, in September 2024, Yan was named director of interior design and assistant professor of practice in the College of Architecture and Design.
“Initially, I was interested in sculpture and installation art. But my advisor suggested that I try interior design. I’m glad I did,” recalls Yan. She graduated from Virginia Commonwealth University with a Bachelor of Fine Arts degree in Interior Design.
She worked professionally for a couple of years. “Then in 2013, I went to a professional networking event where I met a man who started a company reclaiming old barnwood into architectural finishes,” said Yan. She was hired as creative director and the only designer on staff. “We were designing doors and custom furniture, and that’s where I met carpenters and metalworkers.” Then the owner wanted to create a line of historically accurate steel windows and doors with double-pane glass for thermal performance.
Yan said, “This is where I really learned about the detail required in millwork and carpentry. Working side by side and listening to knowledgeable craftspeople informed my work as a designer.”
She moved to Michigan for a Master of Fine Arts degree in 3D design at Cranbrook Academy of Art, which she received in 2017. “It was super educational and humbling to be with so many talented and smart people. It gave me the time and space to realize what I care about.
Yan’s master’s thesis was about object longevity: “I care about the role of design in society. I want it to work, last a long time, and do what the client wants. I want to challenge the need for ‘new’ and want to encourage people to hold onto objects as heirlooms.”
After graduate school, Yan worked at Synecdoche Design Studio as an interior designer and fabricator, designing interior environments and designing and fabricating custom millwork and furniture. Later, as Lead Interior Designer at Detroit’s END Studio, she handled residential, commercial, and hospitality projects. Armed with all this professional experience, she became a licensed interior designer.
“I had always wanted to teach. As an undergrad, I looked up to my professors. I saw how much fun they were having and how much they helped their students,” Yan recalled. “That’s why I began as an adjunct at LTU, and when I was offered the position, I happily accepted.”
By: Renée Ahee
