Alexander Chen
September 12, 1978 - October 8, 2023
"Remembered with Love"
In Memory
Alexander Chen was born in San Francisco in 1978 to immigrant parents who instilled in him a deep appreciation for hard work and craftsmanship. From an early age, he was fascinated by buildings and how spaces could shape human experience.
After earning his architecture degree from UC Berkeley in 2000, Alex spent two years traveling through Japan and Scandinavia, studying minimalist design principles that would define his career. He returned with a vision: to create buildings that were beautiful, functional, and sustainable.
In 2002, he earned his architect license and joined a prominent firm in San Francisco, quickly making a name for himself with innovative designs that prioritized environmental responsibility. His breakthrough came in 2008 when his design for a zero-energy community center won national recognition.
A Life in Focus
Celebration of Life
Memorial Service
Sunday, October 15, 2023
3:00 PM(Past event)
Modern Art Museum
456 Design Plaza, San Francisco, CA 94102
A celebration of Alexander's life and legacy. We invite you to join us in remembering a remarkable architect, mentor, and friend. Please share your memories and stories during the open mic portion.
Hosted by The Chen Family • jennifer.chen@email.com
Life Journey
Born in San Francisco
September 12th, to immigrant parents who valued education and hard work.
Born in San Francisco
September 12th, to immigrant parents who valued education and hard work.
Graduated UC Berkeley
Earned Bachelor of Architecture with honors, beginning a remarkable career.
Graduated UC Berkeley
Earned Bachelor of Architecture with honors, beginning a remarkable career.
Studied in Japan
Traveled through Asia studying minimalist design and sustainable building practices.
Studied in Japan
Traveled through Asia studying minimalist design and sustainable building practices.
Licensed Architect
Earned professional credentials and joined a leading San Francisco firm.
Licensed Architect
Earned professional credentials and joined a leading San Francisco firm.
Married Jennifer
Met the love of his life at a sustainability conference and married at city hall.
Married Jennifer
Met the love of his life at a sustainability conference and married at city hall.
First Major Award
Zero-energy community center design won AIA National Award for sustainable architecture.
First Major Award
Zero-energy community center design won AIA National Award for sustainable architecture.
Founded Chen Design Studio
Started his own firm focused on sustainable, human-centered architecture.
Founded Chen Design Studio
Started his own firm focused on sustainable, human-centered architecture.
Daughter Emma Born
Became a father, finding new purpose and inspiration in family life.
Daughter Emma Born
Became a father, finding new purpose and inspiration in family life.
Son Lucas Born
His family was complete with the arrival of his son.
Son Lucas Born
His family was complete with the arrival of his son.
Teaching at Berkeley
Began teaching sustainable design, mentoring the next generation of architects.
Teaching at Berkeley
Began teaching sustainable design, mentoring the next generation of architects.
Leave a Message
Jennifer Chen
October 12, 2023Alex, you were not just my husband, but my best friend and partner in everything. Your passion for design and sustainability changed the world around you. Our children will grow up knowing they had the most incredible father. I love you always.
Marcus Webb
October 11, 2023Working with Alex for 15 years was an honor. His vision and integrity were unmatched. He taught me that good design isn't just about aesthetics - it's about creating spaces that improve people's lives.
David Chen
October 10, 2023my big bro was the coolest. he always made time for me even when he was super busy. gonna miss our basketball games and talks about life. love u man
Sarah Kim
October 11, 2023Alex was my professor at Berkeley and completely changed how I think about architecture. His sustainable design principles are the foundation of my career. Thank you for inspiring a generation of architects.
Robert Martinez
October 10, 2023Alex designed our community center and it has become the heart of our neighborhood. He didn't just create a building - he created a space where people connect and thrive. His legacy lives in every corner of it.
Emily Foster
October 12, 2023I met Alex at a sustainability conference 5 years ago and we became close friends. His commitment to green building was genuine, not just trendy. He walked the talk. The world needs more people like him.
Thomas Lee
October 9, 2023Alex mentored me when I was just starting out. He taught me that architecture is about service - serving the community, serving the environment. I wouldn't be where I am without his guidance.
Patricia Chen (mom)
October 9, 2023My beautiful son. You made me so proud every single day. From the time you were little building with blocks, I knew you would create beautiful things. You exceeded every dream I had for you. Rest peacefully, my love.
Jake Morrison
October 11, 2023dude you were the best. our camping trips and late night design sessions are some of my favorite memories. cant believe ur gone. miss u brother
Diana Ross
October 10, 2023Alex brought such thoughtfulness to every project. When he designed our home, he took time to understand how we lived and created something that felt uniquely ours. A true artist and wonderful person.
Michael Chang
October 12, 2023The architecture community has lost a giant. Alex's award-winning work will inspire for generations. But beyond his talent, he was kind, humble, and generous with his knowledge. We will miss him terribly.
Laura Bennett
October 11, 2023Alex was my neighbor and friend. He designed our garden space and it brought our whole building together. He had this gift for seeing potential where others saw limitations. Such a beautiful soul.