Our studio is driven by a collective curiosity about what it means to be human and the role design plays in our shared existence in the built and natural environment. Through our pursuits, we explore how design crafts experience - imprinting our memories, shaping our interactions, and composing our lifestyles. As perennial problem-solvers, we enjoy the open-ended possibilities of design. We value design as a tool not only for addressing practical spatial challenges but also for proposing refreshing narratives for the way we live and engage empathetically with one another.
Who We Are
Studio Becker Xu is a Chicago-based multidisciplinary architecture studio, and creative practice of Sharon Xu and Robert Becker, that explores design across scales - through buildings, interiors, furniture, and objects. Their collaboration brings together complementary perspectives - Sharon’s systematic thinking and creative problem-solving and Robert’s adept understanding of craft and assembly - to form an artful yet technical approach to design. After practicing professionally in architecture offices across Boston, New York, Chicago, and Los Angeles, they returned to the Midwest to form their practice, informed by diverse experiences building spaces for learning, living, and working. Sharon holds a Master of Architecture from Princeton University and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from Massachusetts Institute of Technology. Robert holds a Master of Architecture from Princeton University and a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from University of Illinois at Chicago. In addition to their practice, they are educators at Illinois Institute of Technology and the University of Illinois Chicago.
Our Process
A design project of any scale can be a complex and daunting task. We are here to make the process of translating abstract ideas into tangible realities constructive, enjoyable, and rewarding for you. We embrace each project as a one-of-a-kind collaboration - whether with a homeowner, entrepreneur, fabricator, developer, or community - to create with you a space that is uniquely yours.
We approach all projects...
...with curiosity and an open mind - listening carefully to understand your needs, values, and motivations in the initial discovery process.
...with resourcefulness and ingenuity - envisioning a compelling design concept that defines the distinctive form, materials, and experience of your space while authentically reflecting your identity and supporting your daily use.
...with care and precision - crafting highly-refined, memorable spaces that amplify your ambitions through a comprehensive design process, guiding your project from early planning through construction.
Let’s Chat!
Sharon Xu:
︎ sharon@studiobeckerxu.com
Robert Becker:
︎ robert@studiobeckerxu.com
General:
︎ 314-795-9263
︎ info@studiobeckerxu.com
︎ @studio.beckerxu
︎3020 N Waterloo Ct #3
Chicago, IL 60657