Bright Futures Ahead: Introducing Sarah Phan to Wilmot Sanz

Welcoming New Talent: Introducing Sarah Phan to Wilmot Sanz

Wilmot Sanz is thrilled to welcome a new addition to our growing team this summer. As a firm dedicated to advancing healthcare design through creativity, collaboration, and purpose, we are excited to introduce Sarah Phan, a talented emerging designer whose skills and perspective will strengthen our architectural practice.

Our team continues to grow with individuals who share our passion for creating impactful, human-centered environments that improve the healthcare experience for patients, caregivers, and communities.

Meet Sarah Phan – Architectural Designer

A recent graduate of the University of Maryland, School of Architecture, Planning, and Preservation, Sarah earned her Bachelor of Science in Architecture with a Minor in Construction and Project Management. During her academic journey, she discovered a deep appreciation for both the artistry and precision of architecture—particularly through hand drafting and post-production techniques that shaped her design sensibility.

Finding Her Path to Architecture

Q: Sarah, when did you know that architecture was the right profession for you?

A: “The typical architect’s answer is, ‘I loved playing with Legos,’ but for me, it goes far beyond that. Using different forms of art and crafts became my creative outlet growing up. I lost touch with that creativity for a while, but it was reignited during a two-week trip through five countries. I realized that I remembered each place not just by name, but by its buildings—their colors, materials, and the emotions they evoked. That experience confirmed that architecture was the right path for me.”

Discovering a Passion for Healthcare Design

Q: What brought you to work in the healthcare design industry?

A: “I didn’t have prior experience in healthcare design before joining Wilmot Sanz. At first, I was hesitant because I didn’t know what to expect. But once I started, I became fascinated by the way thoughtful design can impact healing, improve staff experiences, and bring comfort to visitors. I used to associate hospitals with stress or sadness, but now I see how design can completely transform those perceptions. Being part of that transformation is incredibly rewarding.”

Looking Ahead

Q: As you begin your career, what goals are you hoping to achieve?

A: “I’m eager to continue learning and growing as a designer. In the near term, I hope to pursue my LEED or WELL AP certification to deepen my understanding of sustainable and wellness-focused design. In the future, I’d love to become a licensed architect and possibly pursue a Master of Architecture to expand my expertise.”

Beyond the Studio

Q: Do you have any passions outside of architecture?

A: “Cooking is one of my favorite ways to unwind and connect with my roots. My dad is from Vietnam and my mom is from the Philippines, so food has always been a bridge between cultures in my family. I love preserving that heritage through cooking—some of my favorite dishes to make are pho, cheesecake, and coconut cream pie.”

We are thrilled to welcome Sarah Phan to the Wilmot Sanz team. Her curiosity, cultural perspective, and drive to design spaces that make a difference align perfectly with our mission of improving healthcare through thoughtful design. We look forward to seeing how her creativity and dedication will enrich our firm’s work and culture in the years to come.

Welcome to the team, Sarah!