The life changing power of designing with dirt

TEDxChicago

May 10

Written By Dustin Huibregtse

Talk given at TEDxChicago Salon: Design in 2024

Chicago, May 10th, 2024

Ernie Wong

Urban Designer & Landscape Architect

About the Talk

From immigrant parents to successful urban spaces, Ernie Wong weaves a story of struggling to gain his father's acceptance to creating an equitable world through landscape architecture. In doing so, he unveils a powerful truth about what it means to design urban spaces for our future generations, and how it transforms our lives. With reference to current climate and societal challenges, Ernie describes the innovative projects that capture the flavors of changing neighborhoods in Chicago and their futures.

Source: TEDxChicago

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About Ernie

Ernie Wong, Founder and Principal of site design group, ltd., has been a leader in landscape architecture for over 33 years. Under his leadership, site design group, ltd. has become known for their creation of creative urban spaces, including Riverwalk East, Pioneer Court, Mary Bartelme Park and Henry Palmisano Park (Stearns Quarry). Wong, a Fellow of the ASLA and Chairman of the Chicago Landmarks Commission, seamlessly blends design excellence with a unique dedication to civic engagement. Through his innovative leadership at site design group, ltd. and numerous not-for-profit organizations, Wong continues to innovate, further shaping the landscape architecture profession while receiving recognition through awards such as the Chicago Tribune's “2010 Chicagoan of the Year”, the 2021 LAI Burnham Award, the 2021 Nat’l ASLA Community Service Award, and the 2022 March of Dimes Professional Services Award.

Source: TEDxChicago

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TEDxChicago Salon: Design in 2024

TEDxChicago is Chicago’s biggest stage for ideas + connection at the convergence of our culture, innovation, and democracy. Rooted in the vibrant and dynamic city of Chicago, a hub of innovation, culture, and resilience, TEDxChicago celebrates the city’s unique spirit and its history of fostering groundbreaking ideas and movements. In 2024, they hosted a Salon focused on Design to delve into the world of design and hear from exciting Chicago visionaries, architects, designers, and creatives shaping our future. Join speakers, artists, performers, and the design community, among many others for a thrilling, intimate, and immersive creative experience.

Source: TEDxChicago

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