our story

FRACTAL was founded by Grace McGowan and Arash Salarinezhad—two architects whose lives have been shaped by different cultures, different experiences, and a shared belief that thoughtful design has the power to bring people together.

As a Chinese American and Iranian husband-and-wife team, our lives continue to span cultures and continents. While we navigate life across borders, every journey, conversation, and shared experience deepens our understanding of the world—and reinforces both the joy and responsibility of designing spaces and fostering experiences that help people feel connected.

Although we grew up on opposite sides of the world, we found common ground through architecture and an endless curiosity about people, places, and the stories that shape them. What began as conversations about design gradually grew into something much larger: a shared vision for how architecture, culture, travel, research, and community could exist under one philosophy.

FRACTAL is the result of that journey. It is a studio built on curiosity, connection, and the belief that the best ideas emerge where disciplines, cultures, and perspectives intersect. More than a design practice, we hope it becomes a community of curious people who believe thoughtful design can strengthen communities, bridge cultures, and help us experience the world—and one another—with greater intention.