M2L Associates is pleased to add a new member to its ranks: Phuong Anh Pham. A graduate of Texas A&M University with a bachelor’s degree in landscape architecture, Phuong Anh’s strong practical skills have allowed her to have an immediate impact on multiple M2L project teams. While working toward her degree, Phuong Anh interned at LG-Group in Saigon, Vietnam, Oro Design Group in Austin, Texas and Coral Studio in San Antonio, Texas, and even added UI/UX design to give her richer experience in the user experience and client journey of our projects.
M2L Principal Michael Mauer said, “Phuong Anh’s broad geographical experience and her expertise as a freelance designer helped her stand out to us. She has a passion for sustainable and resilient urban design that directly improves the lived experience of communities on the frontlines of climate change, and that fits in well with our firm and how we approach our work.”
More about Phuong Anh in her own words:
Your passion for the work M2L does is obvious. How did your interest in this field develop?
When Hurricane Harvey hit Houston, I remember watching floodwaters rise into the first floors of my neighbors’ homes, seeing stalled cars stranded in flooded streets and hearing about family friends taking shelter in nearby high schools. The extensive damage the storm left behind had a profound effect on me. I began to ask myself, “How did this happen? Could the flooding have been prevented?”
As I read more about how Houston’s infrastructure became overwhelmed by the storm, I discovered my interest in landscape architecture. I realized I wanted a career that would allow me to combine my interests in art, science and community service to create tangible solutions for my city. At M2L, I hope to contribute to projects that reflect the vision I first developed at 15 years old while reading those articles: helping communities become more resilient and better prepared for future challenges.
What led you to consider M2L for your next career path? What do you like about the culture?
I was drawn to M2L because of the diversity of projects they work on their willingness to learn, adapt and try new things. No matter the project type or scale, I appreciate how many M2L projects focus on greening Houston and creating spaces that are more accessible and welcoming for everyone. I also like the small-company atmosphere at M2L because it feels more genuine. It’s clear the team here cares about both the work they do and the communities they serve.
You’ve learned valuable new skills to augment your design expertise. Tell us more.
I am a UI/UX designer on the side. I love all things related to design and find inspiration for my work through all media: art galleries and exhibitions, coffee shops, magazines, and social media. You never know what will spark the next great idea!
Tell us more about yourself. How do you unwind in your spare time?
I prefer to spend my free time outside of work being in the outdoors, progressing my Vietnamese language skills, creating art or reading a book. Lately I’ve also been dabbling in oil painting, I’m on my 35th book this year, and I like to visit the many parks here. While my favorite parks in Houston make an expansive list, my current favorites include Eleanor Tinsley Park, Alief Community Park, Memorial Park and the Bayou Bend Collection and Gardens.