Janet Tam and Chris Noll came from very different backgrounds yet shared a way of thinking. Out of their friendship, a firm was born. Over the years, they have brought together architectural professionals with a vibrant mix of thought and culture. It keeps the work exciting and smart.

Janet feels the most challenging aspect of her job is staying fresh. Like anything that appears magical, it’s hard work. But with experience comes some strategies.

Don’t be afraid of possibilities: trust the blank page and be open to letting a project evolve.

Look for unexpected connections: the design considerations of a healthcare center might be applied to a community center or even a zoo.

Talk to each other: being aware of more perspectives will result in design that resonates with people. Vacuums are for carpets, not creativity.

Janet’s approach to design begins with understanding each group’s mission. She says, “If you don’t start with that, you’ll never help them.” The higher purpose jump-starts the process.