Chel Wattanasirichaigoon

Chel (Rachaya) Wattanasirichaigoon primarily grew up in Bangkok, Thailand, where she completed her undergraduate degree in architecture at Chulalongkorn University. When she thinks of the landscapes of her hometown, she thinks of lushness and, overhead, a canopy that provides shelter and comfort. Chel also, however, spent the early years of her life in Boston, and looks back at childhood photos around New England. Boston is Chel’s second home.

After completing her undergraduate studies in architecture, Chel worked in Bangkok for four years. Although she cherished the experience and loved what she built, Chel questioned the disconnect between the industry and the larger environment. In search of responsiveness, she was led to the Graduate School of Design at Harvard where she completed a dual Master of Landscape Architecture and Urban Design.

Chel is currently working on the Breakers in Newport, Rhode Island. In her spare time, Chel loves to cook and feels very connected to herbs that flavor Thai recipes. She also loves to draw and paint and can sometimes be found drawing portraits on Newbury Street.