Keyao Olivia Liu

Hometown: Shanxi, China
Education Background: University of Toronto

How did you get interested in your field?
I was born in Taiyuan, Shanxi Province, an industrial city rich in 8th–15th century Chinese wooden architecture. Growing up surrounded by these historical buildings sparked my early fascination with architecture, and this curiosity has continued to inspire my studies in the field.

What was your background prior to coming to Penn?
Before attending UPenn, I studied at the University of Toronto in the John H. Daniels Faculty of Architecture, Landscape, and Design, where I earned my undergraduate degree in architecture. My education at UofT honed my skills in design and deepened my interest in exploring architectural theory and its practical applications.

Why did you choose Penn?
I chose UPenn for its rigorous curriculum, which I believe will challenge me to step beyond my comfort zone and expand my design thinking by exploring diverse design opportunities. The program’s strong emphasis on structures and construction provides an essential foundation for my development, whether I pursue a career in architecture or academia. It also prepares me thoroughly for professional practice, ensuring I have both the technical knowledge and design skills to succeed.

What has been your favorite class so far?
As a current second-year MArch student, my favorite class has been ARCH5110 Architecture History and Theory, taught by Professor Fernando Lara. This course gave me fresh insights into architectural modernity and the processes of modernization. It also offered an opportunity to explore vernacular architecture in modern history—an area I hadn’t studied in depth before—which has greatly enriched my approach to studio design projects.

What are you learning right now that will help you in the future?
UPenn’s holistic curriculum is providing me with a well-rounded understanding of architecture. Courses like construction have introduced me to practical tools such as BIM and Revit, which are invaluable for real-world applications. These skills, along with what I’m learning in structural labs, will be incredibly helpful in my future career. In fact, the curriculum has even sparked an interest in pursuing a higher degree in architecture.

What do you like best about Philadelphia?
I love jogging along the Schuylkill River, which gives me time to appreciate the natural beauty and architectural landmarks of the city. Philadelphia’s rich history and cultural diversity offer a wealth of experiences beyond academics. The city is home to incredible architectural sites, museums, and the Philadelphia Symphony Orchestra. These experiences provide a creative and enriching backdrop to my academic life and deepen my understanding of culture and architecture.

What kinds of activities and/or organizations are you involved in?
I currently serve as a representative for the MArch program on the Stucco. As an international student, I aim to help international students better adapt to the School of Design community, utilize its resources, and foster clear communication within our diverse community.

What are your career ambitions?
I want to contribute to the preservation and adaptive reuse of Chinese wooden architecture. By combining contemporary design with cultural heritage conservation, I hope to create meaningful and sustainable architectural solutions for culturally rich modern cities.