West Chin, the principal architect behind WCA, is known for his distinctly modern residential and commercial work. Chin originally founded a design/build firm which became the foundation for his architectural practice WCA. WCA is a full-service, high-end architecture, interior design and decorating firm based in New York City, East Hampton and Westport, CT.
His design philosophy “combines style with functionality, utilizing minimal, clean lines to create fluid, light-filled, spacious environments.
Photographer Marco Petrini from Petrini Studio
WCA recently transformed a duplex apartment into a single loft for a busy and engaged family - “even the kids had a point of view about how the space should be considered.” They wanted a versatile kitchen that works for small, family dinners but also for larger entertaining, with a focus on clean, simple and timeless design that’s easy to care for. The custom-designed staircase cantilevers off the wall as it rises above the kitchen and a bronze feature wall divides the preparation and dining areas.
“We were lucky enough to work with a family who was as excited about the details as we were,” says Chin.
Family Affair
Chin’s father was an architect, introducing him to modern architecture as a toddler, and as teenager he was put to work in design and construction and has loved the practice of design ever since. “My dad is my inspiration and my mentor.”
Chin has also had the pleasure of working with a number of clients in the fashion industry, allowing for a blending of inspirations. “Working with photographers like Michael Thompson taught me a lot about lighting, working with Francois Nars (of Nars Cosmetics) taught me a lot about composition, and working with Christy Turlington taught me a lot about being globally insightful of the entire project.”
Photographer David Jiang
The Gaggenau team has always been very helpful in providing the technical support we need to ensure a successful specification and installation for our clients. It helps that the products themselves have also been carefully considered, detailed and crafted, so they fit seamlessly into our kitchen designs.
Photographer David Jiang
Selected by New York magazine as one of “The City’s 100 Best Architects and Decorators,” West topped Interior Design magazine’s industry list as “Kitchen & Bath Design Leader,” and was chosen by New York Spaces magazine as one of the “Top 50 Designers You Need to Know in Metro NY Design.” He is also the creative force behind the curation of home decor showrooms, West|Out East which also feature WCA’s modern furniture and accessory collection, FTF Design Studio. And Chin also dabbles in hospitality projects such as speakeasies and restaurants!
Photographer David Jiang