Good morning, everyone. My name is Luoya Tu. I am Nonchi’s second longest-lasting employee, as well as the design partner in Amphibian Arc, a design firm built on his selfless dedication and life-long commitment. Thank you for having me here today, as it is definitely a great honor for me to extol my thoughts and experiences with Nonchi.

Over the past two weeks, I spent much time alone in the office, organizing and cleaning, going through design sketches, and packing up belongings, piece by piece. The process of doing so was emotionally challenging, but was a deep spiritual recovery that I much needed.  It evolved to become a memorial and reminiscence of Nonchi as I knew him: a boss, a mentor, an idol, and most importantly, a leader and a comrade in my lifelong journey through architecture.

I still remember when we first met. It was a November evening. I had been invited to join the team, temporarily, to assist with final hours of a competition deadline. Those that know the architecture industry know that those types of situations are intense in that they require much perseverance combined with long hours. Finally the intensity subsided and the project came to a close, early the following morning. Everyone was exhausted. Since I was newly transplanted here, and didn’t have a car yet, graciously, Nonchi offered to drive me home. One might think that “Certainly, this is NOT an alluring first day of work!” However, in fact, I was captivated since that fateful night. It was clear to me that Nonchi’s seemingly endless passion and dedication to architecture was the driving force for the team. Despite the ups and downs over the past 23 years, Amphibian Arc evolved into a world-class architecture firm with most of the growth occurring over the last five years. Along this evolution, when funds were scarce, Nonchi displayed immense fortitude as he extended his personal resources to pay the team. Over time, the team varied, but no matter its size, he was always the last one to leave the office at night, or rather, every early morning. No doubt, this punctuated his passion, care and commitment to the team and projects.

One might think, six years with Nonchi in Amphibian Arc is not long in an architect’s career. Though, it most certainly feels like a long time for “Amphibians,” the name we have affectionately chosen for the core members in the firm that possess extreme commitment like Nonchi. Amongst the countless long nights, only he and several unique people would persist and enjoy what Amphibian Arc would offer: anti-fatigue yoga at Mid-night, heated design debates just prior to deadlines, week-long compensational breaks after burnouts, and so on…. These seemingly daunting tribulations eventually materialized into design schemes and fully built structures that marked the milestones of the firm, as well as becoming a significant contribution to the future of architecture. Over the short, six years span, with Nonchi’s leadership, the core members of the team have grown together to form a synergistic entity; one that ultimately finds harmony, discovery and understanding through opposing opinions and personas.  Interestingly, through our very individual modes of thought, we have found that which binds us.   I remember toiling over the improvement of a condo bathroom design project for the entire night with Nonchi. Although it had already been approved by the client, we had agreed that it was not designed well enough, and endeavored a redesign. By the time we finished, it was almost 2 o’clock in the morning. He said with his signature laughter, “This is what makes amphibian arc an exceptional design firm. It takes two principals working at mid-night to study a bathroom layout!” 

Six years is only but a glimpse of the journey we traverse in life. Though, throughout this journey I have felt so grateful and honored that I was able to work along-side such an extraordinary architect, and ultimately, assist in the manifestation of his journey through architecture. Undoubtedly, he has lived his life in ways only the most courageous, optimistic and persistent could imagine.  Accepting the end of our own existence is a daunting task for anyone. He accepted his final days peacefully and full of love for his family and the world.

Arc, is a segment of the circumference of a circle or cycle. With nobility, Nonchi has drawn the last segment of the arc in his cycle of the great human experience we call “life.” Let’s toast to Nonchi, and thank him for leading us to where we are today, and celebrate his truly extraordinary and glamorous life! Thank you!