In a world where sustainability and innovation are more crucial than ever, Sophia Slingerland is at the forefront of redefining architecture and urban living.
Born in Hamburg, Germany, she set her sights on becoming an architect from an early age, driven by a passion for creative problem-solving. With a Master's from TU Kaiserslautern and a strong foundation in civil engineering, Slingerland has built a global career that spans working with Renzo Piano in Paris, pioneering Passivehouse projects in California, and found her own studios in Switzerland before settling in Shanghai in 2017.
She started in the city with Ateliers Phi architecture and design company and later founded SHINE Ecological Technology, tackling global water challenges with off-grid, sustainable solutions, while also mentoring, lecturing, and advocating for ESG (environmental, social and governance) and green innovation.
Shanghai's dynamic, forward-thinking environment has become the perfect place for her mission – where international collaboration and bold ideas can thrive.
Sophia Slingerland started in the city with Ateliers Phi architecture and design company and later founded SHINE Ecological Technology.
Before we talk about Ateliers Phi architecture and design company and SHINE, would you please introduce yourself?
Born in Hamburg, I've been passionate about architecture from an early age, always envisioning running my own studio. With a Master's degree from TU Kaiserslautern and a strong civil engineering background, I integrate urban planning, architectural design, construction planning, and project management into my work. Thinking outside the box is my driving force, always seeking innovative solutions to complex challenges. My motto: "Imagine the unimaginable."
My global experience includes working for Renzo Piano in Paris in the early 1990s, pioneering Passivehouse projects in California, and founding an architecture studio in Switzerland in 2009. In 2017, I started my own office in Shanghai, focusing on sustainability, green architecture, and off-the-grid autonomous buildings. In 2019, I developed a waterless, off-grid ecological toilet, reaching the global finals of the United Nations' Accelerate2030 competition. This led to the launch of SHINE Ecological Technology in 2022, supporting governments and businesses in ESG initiatives.
A lecturer, speaker, and sustainability advocate, I co-chair Tsinghua's International Sustainable Salon Series in Shanghai and mentor at Xi'an Jiatong-Liverpool University (XJTLU) in Suzhou. As an ESG ambassador, SwissCham Shanghai Board Director, and dedicated Rotarian, I remain committed to shaping a better world – professionally, socially, and personally as a mother of four.
Sophia gave a speech at the Carbon Neutrality Expo Shanghai 2024, which serves as a platform for industry leaders, innovators, and policymakers to collaborate on achieving carbon neutrality goals in China and beyond.
Why, after living in Shanghai for a few years, did you decide to strike out on your own to build up your own business?
I first came to Shanghai in 2012, seeking manufacturing opportunities for my architecture and furniture design company. Instantly captivated by the city's energy, culture and people, I traveled between Switzerland and China for five years before settling in Shanghai and opening a subsidiary of my Geneva office. My work in sustainability expanded, leading to lectures at Shanghai University and XJTLU in Suzhou.
Then, COVID hit and travels were excluded. I closed my Swiss company and stayed for good in China. I do not regret my decision; it is the place I want to be. During COVID, I launched a design mask brand and later shifted my focus to tackling the global water crisis. In 2021, I reached the global finals of Accelerate2030, which inspired me to develop eco-friendly, off-grid sanitation solutions.
Today, through SHINE Ecological Technology, we provide waterless toilets and water recycling systems to governments, NGOs (non-governmental organizations), and corporations. Shanghai's dynamic and open business environment has made it the ideal place for innovation and impact.
Ateliers Phi architecture and design company completed the design project for Big Trees Academy in downtown Jing'an District in 2017. The project was developed with a strong focus on low-carbon and sustainable design principles, ensuring an environmentally friendly and energy-efficient learning environment for young children.
The NOAH V vacuum exhaust toilet system was showcased as a demonstration at the WiF Forum (Water Innovative Summit), highlighting its advanced water-saving technology and sustainable sanitation solutions.
What were you trying to bring to the local community?
With over 25 years of experience in low-carbon and sustainable architecture, ESG is not just part of my work – it's embedded in every aspect of my life. This is what I bring to the city and to China. My goal is to contribute my expertise to support the country's transition towards a healthier, safer, socially responsible, and more sustainable way of living.
In 2021, I founded a Sustainability Forum (WiS), creating a network of experts to connect people, companies, and governments, fostering collaboration and driving meaningful change.
What are the biggest challenges in setting up a business here? How do you stay motivated?
Coming to China requires a full commitment – of time, money and patience. It's only once you've truly settled that you understand the depth of this investment. My dear partner is my greatest source of motivation, especially in challenging moments. My children, though far away, inspire me to be a role model for others. To stay grounded, I meditate daily and am a Reiki Master. Strong bonds and true friendships are essential – not just for success, but for resilience and fulfillment in this journey.
Sophia Slingerland (third left), as the head of digital innovation and sustainability group and board director of SwissCham Shanghai, attended SwissCham Ball in 2023.
What was the moment that made you most proud?
Those defining moments include opening my architecture studio in China, leading my Rotaract Club as a student in Senegal to support development projects, and raising four smart, talented, and wonderful children.
What are you working on currently?
Many new projects under my two companies.
Who is a female role model who inspires you?
Grace Lee Boggs, Wangari Maathai, Coco Chanel, Miriam Makeba are very inspiring women leaders.
Do you have any advice for women entrepreneurs?
Stay who YOU are and be true to yourself; stay humble. Believe in your BIG DREAM and do not listen to others telling you that you are a dreamer. Adapting the perspective might be necessary here and there to get where you want to go, but stay focused, resilient and never give up!