Xinyi (Cindy) Chen
Founder/CEO of X CITY CONSULTING
Xinyi has played a pivotal role in numerous high-profile architectural and planning projects spanning the United States and China. Her expertise is concentrated in regional and city planning, spatial analysis, urban and architectural design, real estate, and strategic advisory services within the public and private sector. Working closely with local, state, federal, and institutional clients, she delivers integrated design and planning solutions for public spaces and properties. Xinyi's human-centered approach and exemplary presentations have earned recognition from various agencies and communities, notably in Northern/Central Florida and the San Francisco Bay Area. Her interdisciplinary proficiency in architecture, planning, real estate, finance, sustainability, and public policy underpins her innovative methods and unique perspective on community development.
As a certified planner, public architect, and licensed real estate practitioner, Xinyi demonstrates profound empathy and dedication in her design approach and professional services. She has provided critical support to hundreds of individuals in homeless shelters, emergency housing during the Covid-19 pandemic, and the U.S. Department of Veteran Affairs. Notably, she served as the youngest-ever design lead at the award-winning design firm KPA, where she excelled in managing and delivering high-profile public projects. Xinyi holds the position of Senior Planner at the Growth Services Department of the Marion County Board of County Commissioners and provides responsible stewardship to citizens.
Outside of her professional endeavors, Xinyi is a passionate advocate for social equality, particularly in empowering women, racial minorities, first-generation immigrants, and underrepresented groups. She actively engages with organizations, national and international events, conferences, and political campaigns to share insights from her experiences as a young female professional in the built environment. Additionally, Xinyi's passion for exploration has led her to travel to 12 countries and over 50 cities, where she observes and documents architecture, public spaces, history, culture, and local life. She also pursued study abroad opportunities in the U.K., France, and Germany, immersing herself in local communities and engaging in art projects during summers.
Professional Affiliation:
American Institute of Certifed Planner (AICP), American Planning Association (APA)
LEED Accredited Professional in Building Design + Construction, U.S. Green Building Council (USGBC)
Licensed Realtor, Florida
Member, National Council of Architectural Registration Boards (NCARB)
Education:
Cornell University - Master of Regional Planning, Minor in Real Estate
California College of the Arts - Bachelor of Architecture, with Distinction
Chongqing University, China - Undergraduate Study: Built Environment and Facility Engineering
Certificates:
Harvard University - Graduate School of Design, Real Estate Development Fundamentals
MIT - School of Architecture + Planning, Commercial Real Estate Analysis and Investment
Harvard University - Harvard Business School, Fundamentals of Business