About
At Urban by Design, we understand the transformative value of design-thinking. We champion design excellence to expand opportunity for communities. For us, design is a path to equity, making the "right to the city" accessible for all. Our commitment goes far beyond aesthetics; it's about shaping the spaces and places that empower communities and inspire positive change. We show up unlocking value by thinking urbanistically at multiple scales and time frames. Our innovative process involves creating dynamic visuals that illuminate complex realities of the evolving metropolis: The city is its own resourceful multidimensional laboratory that needs to be seen. Whether you're a business owner, a citizens' group, a neighborhood organization working to improve a district, a large networked firm, or an individual entrepreneur with a compelling what-if idea, we are creative professionals able to craft your vision to contribute to the greater health of the city.
We're here to help client organizations of all shapes and sizes by meeting them where they're at. Reach out to us. Let's bring climate and community matters together and work to make great places uniquely Urban X Design.
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Urban X Design LLC is a Minority-Owned Business Enterprise (MBE) certified in New York City.
Our Story
At the heart of Urban by Design lies a story that intertwines with the journey of its founder. Phu Duong, is a Vietnamese-born American architect, urban designer, and educator whose journey into design was shaped by his unique upbringing. Growing up in the Pacific Northwest, Phu helped his immigrant family run a bakery, where daily deliveries took him through the interplay of highways, railways, and blended cityscapes, all set against the backdrop of converging river systems. These early experiences gave him a deep appreciation for the connections between people, infrastructure, and the natural environment—a perspective that continues to fuel his compassionate imagination for architecture and urbanism. His inclusive and forward-thinking spirit has fostered over 25 years of experience collaborating with clients and communities around the world. In response to the challenges posed by the pandemic, Phu embarked on his own future-making journey, giving rise to Urban X Design.
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Phu Duong AIA, AICP, LEED AP
Founding Principal