Florian Idenburg and Jing Liu established their New York–based practice, SO-IL, in 2008; Ilias Papageorgiou joined as a partner in 2013. RECORD asked them five questions about their work in preparation for the Chicago Architecture Biennial. Scroll through the slideshow above to see some of their key projects.

Architectural Record: Tell us about your practice. What differentiates you from other firms?

SO-IL builds culture.

How do you get into the creative headspace?

Typically, by flying.

Who are your design heroes?

Vincent Lundy; Toyo Ito; the Bouroullecs.

What do you hope to contribute to the Chicago Biennial?

Poetry. How will we have music in smog filled cities? Our installation is the answer.

We are working with Ana Prvački on a piece that is both ephemeral and earth shattering—a series of air-purifying cocoons for musicians. Veronica Krauss composed a special piece for four wind instruments.

Most importantly, when it comes to pizza, deep dish or thin crust?

Thin.

The Chicago Architecture Biennial runs from September 19, 2017, to January 7, 2018. Read more of our coverage of the event here.