Expanding Architectural Practice into Southeast Asia: Insights from the Building Regional Practice Symposium 

On October 25, 2025, AIA Hong Kong Chapter hosted the “Building Regional Practice: Southeast Asia Showcase” symposium at Asia Society Hong Kong. This article summarise our insights from this whole day symposium.

Key Takeaways for Architectural Practitioners Expanding into Southeast Asia

• Embrace Collaborative, Integrated Practice Models: Successful regional projects thrive on partnerships between global and local firms, exemplified by SOM and KPF’s work in Vietnam and the Philippines, blending international expertise with local insights.  

• Navigate Cultural and Regulatory Complexity with Sensitivity and Flexibility: Understanding diverse regulatory frameworks and cultural contexts is critical. Practitioners must engage deeply with local partners and governmental agencies to ensure compliance and relevance.  

• Leverage Sustainability and Material Innovation as Differentiators: Sustainable design is no longer optional but a competitive advantage. The use of sustainable timber, particularly American hardwoods, offers both environmental benefits and aesthetic warmth, aligning with regional climate goals.  

• Capitalise on Hong Kong’s Strategic Position as a Regional Hub: Hong Kong’s connectivity, economic freedom, and established networks provide an advantageous base for expanding architectural practice into Southeast Asia.  

Our gratitude goes to AHEC and AECOM as our sponsor of the event, and our tremendous speakers that contribute tremendous value to our symposium.

A NotebookLM recap of the symposium is available here as a podcast (25min):

1. Introduction: The Southeast Asian Opportunity

Southeast Asia is experiencing a dynamic transformation marked by rapid urbanization, economic growth, and evolving social landscapes. For architectural practitioners, this region offers a fertile ground for expanding practice beyond traditional markets. The AIA Hong Kong’s 2025 symposium, Building Regional Practice: Southeast Asia, convened leading experts to explore how architects can effectively engage with this vibrant region. The event underscored the importance of understanding local contexts, embracing sustainability, and fostering collaborative models to unlock opportunities in countries such as Vietnam, the Philippines, Thailand, Indonesia, Singapore, and beyond.

John Chan, Regional Director of the American Hardwood Export Council (AHEC), emphasized the region’s growing demand for sustainable materials and architectural innovation. “Vietnam is now the world’s second biggest market for American hardwood,” Chan noted, highlighting the rapid adoption of environmentally responsible building materials in Southeast Asia. This shift signals a broader regional commitment to sustainable development, which architects must integrate into their design and practice strategies.

The symposium’s sessions revealed that expanding into Southeast Asia requires more than replicating Western models; it demands a nuanced approach that respects cultural diversity, regulatory complexity, and evolving urban needs. This article synthesizes the symposium’s insights into actionable guidance for architectural practitioners aiming to establish or grow their presence in Southeast Asia.

2. Collaboration Models That Work

One of the symposium’s foundational themes was the critical role of collaboration in regional practice. Two globally renowned firms, SOM and KPF, shared their experiences working in Southeast Asia, illustrating how strategic partnerships enable successful project delivery.

Stefano Tronci, Asia Pacific Sustainability Lead at SOM, described their approach in Vietnam and the Philippines, where local knowledge and international design excellence intersect. “Our model is to embed sustainability expertise early in the design process, working closely with local consultants to navigate site-specific challenges,” Tronci explained. SOM’s work on mixed-use developments in Ho Chi Minh City exemplifies this approach, integrating climate-responsive design with local construction techniques.

Similarly, Yee Tak Lau, Director at KPF, highlighted their projects in Thailand, where understanding the cultural context shaped design outcomes. “We don’t just design buildings; we design experiences that resonate with local communities,” Lau said. KPF’s master planning for Bangkok’s urban regeneration projects involved extensive stakeholder engagement, ensuring that designs aligned with both governmental objectives and community aspirations.

Both firms stressed that collaboration extends beyond design teams. Engaging with local authorities, contractors, and suppliers early mitigates risks associated with regulatory delays and construction challenges. This integrated model fosters trust and adaptability, which are crucial in Southeast Asia’s fast-evolving markets.

3. Innovating and Creating New Opportunities: Insights from Emerging Practices

The panel titled “Innovating and Creating New Opportunities,” moderated by Scott Brooks, Director of Imagennix, brought forward fresh perspectives from two dynamic Hong Kong-based studios—Wesley Ho of Napp Studio and Kwanho Li of MLKK Studio. Their candid reflections illuminated the pathways and challenges young practices face when expanding into Southeast Asia, emphasizing innovation, cultural engagement, and strategic growth.

Market Entry: Serendipity Meets Strategic Client Partnerships

Wesley Ho recounted how Napp Studio’s entry into Southeast Asia was marked by a blend of serendipity and opportunistic networking. Their breakthrough came with the Saka Museum in Bali, completed in 2023 and lauded by Time Magazine as one of the world’s greatest places in 2024. The museum, dedicated to Balinese Hinduism, draws inspiration from local geology and natural materials, embodying a deep respect for place and culture. Ho described how this project emerged unexpectedly through prior exhibition design work and a fortuitous connection with a curator, underscoring his belief that “opportunities are always when people are ready.” This narrative highlights how young firms can leverage smaller-scale projects and cultural engagements as springboards into larger commissions.

Conversely, Kwanho Li’s approach with MLKK Studio was more deliberate and client-driven. Over a decade, MLKK has cultivated a sustained partnership with a single international retail brand, designing stores across diverse markets including Australia, Hawaii, Korea, Taiwan, Malta, Singapore, Manila, Indonesia, and Thailand. This long-term collaboration allowed MLKK to embed itself in multiple Southeast Asian contexts, tailoring each project to local materiality and craftsmanship—from cork sculptural forms to reclaimed shipyard wood and rattan weaving. Li emphasized the importance of working directly with local artisans, stating, “We really love working directly with the character, oftentimes working together with the character, but also going into it directly with the one who makes things.” This client-centric model demonstrates how strategic relationships can facilitate steady regional expansion.

Scaling Practice and Maintaining Design Quality Across Borders

Both Ho and Li acknowledged the complexities of scaling architectural practice across multiple jurisdictions while preserving design integrity. Geographic distance, diverse material cultures, and regulatory variability pose significant challenges.

To mitigate these, both studios prioritize hands-on involvement and frequent site visits, especially during critical construction phases. Ho shared how during the Saka Museum project and other works, the team employed mock-ups, material reviews, and iterative prototyping to ensure fidelity to design intent. He noted, “Sometimes the face-to-face meeting is still necessary at major milestone phases to make sure everyone aligns.” Similarly, Li described embedding craftsmanship knowledge into project documentation and working closely with local consultants and artisans to maintain authenticity and quality.

Technology also plays a pivotal role. Both studios creatively leveraged digital communication tools—FaceTime, Messenger, and video calls—to bridge distances, particularly during COVID-19 restrictions and in politically sensitive contexts like Myanmar. This hybrid approach of physical presence and virtual oversight enables them to navigate logistical hurdles without compromising standards.

Competitive Positioning: Materiality, Craftsmanship, and Storytelling

A defining feature of both practices is their commitment to material innovation and storytelling as a means to differentiate architecture from commodity procurement. Ho highlighted the challenges of sourcing local materials with unfamiliar nomenclature and traditional craftsmanship, describing how deep material research informs design decisions. For instance, the Saka Museum’s use of natural materials resonates with Balinese cultural narratives, creating a design that is both authentic and innovative.

Li echoed this sentiment, emphasizing the studio’s focus on local materiality and artisanal collaboration across their retail projects. He remarked, “You really have to deliver the standard that they are looking for. It’s not an easy time for sure.” This dedication to quality craftsmanship not only elevates the architectural product but also strengthens client relationships and community engagement.

Both speakers underscored the importance of educating clients about the value of design beyond cost considerations. Ho reframed this as “sharing knowledge” to avoid condescension, helping clients appreciate why certain approaches or materials are chosen. Li noted the necessity of prioritizing like-minded clients who value design integrity over purely cost-effective solutions, stating, “That makes our work actually the life easier after that in the concept of design.”

Navigating Challenges: Pricing, Scope, and Cultural Complexity

The panelists candidly discussed common challenges such as fee negotiations, scope creep, and managing client expectations in competitive Southeast Asian markets. Both stressed transparent communication and detailed project scheduling as tools to justify premium fees and manage scope effectively.

Material sourcing and craftsmanship posed additional hurdles. Ho described the iterative process of collaborating with artisans to push craft boundaries while respecting traditional methods. Li highlighted the importance of direct engagement with makers to maintain standards and authenticity.

Scaling without losing control requires embedding design intent into documentation and maintaining ongoing dialogue with local teams. Both studios emphasized that flexibility and adaptability are essential in responding to shifting regulations and market conditions.

Notable Quotes:

• Wesley Ho: “Opportunities are always when people are ready.”

• Wesley Ho: “It’s more like you will understand you need to share a lot more knowledge with them to try to convince them why you are using a certain approach.”

• Kwanho Li: “We prioritize like-minded clients over cost-effective different clients. That makes our work actually the life easier after that in the concept of design.”

• Kwanho Li: “We really love working directly with the character, oftentimes working together with the character, but also going into it directly with the one who makes things.”

This panel provided a compelling glimpse into how emerging architectural practices from Hong Kong navigate the complexities of Southeast Asia’s diverse markets. Their stories reveal that innovation is not solely about novel forms but also about strategic relationships, cultural fluency, material authenticity, and operational rigor. For practitioners seeking to expand regionally, these insights affirm that success hinges on balancing creativity with professionalism, and serendipity with strategy.

4. Navigating Cultural and Regulatory Complexity

5. Sustainability as Competitive Advantage

The symposium’s focus on material innovation spotlighted sustainable timber as a transformative resource for Southeast Asian architecture. John Chan’s presentation detailed how American hardwoods, particularly under-utilized species like red oak, maple, and cherry, are gaining traction in the region.

“Using a broader range of species helps maintain forest health and biodiversity,” Chan emphasized. He also noted the timber’s versatility, suitable for structural elements, cladding, and interior finishes, offering architects creative freedom without compromising sustainability.

The warm tactile quality of wood aligns well with Southeast Asia’s design sensibilities, which often emphasize natural materials and biophilic connections. “Wood brings a human scale and softness to high-density urban projects,” said Wesley Ho. This is evident in projects like SOM’s residential towers in Ho Chi Minh City, where timber accents complement concrete and glass, creating inviting environments.

Challenges remain, including ensuring supply chain transparency and addressing fire safety concerns. However, collaboration with organizations like AHEC and local forestry authorities can help architects navigate these complexities and advocate for responsible timber use.

7. High-Density Housing and Urban Living

High-density housing is a defining feature of Southeast Asian cities, driven by rapid population growth and limited land availability. The symposium explored innovative approaches to urban living that balance density with quality of life.

Prof. Eunice Seng traced Singapore’s housing evolution, highlighting the Housing Development Board’s (HDB) pioneering role in delivering affordable, high-quality public housing. “Singapore’s model integrates social policy with urban planning,” she explained, noting the shift from quantitative targets to qualitative considerations like community well-being and environmental integration.

The concept of “remaking our heartland” (ROH) exemplifies this evolution, focusing on activating ground-level spaces, enhancing greenery, and fostering social interaction. This approach resonates across the region, where architects are reimagining high-rise living to include sky gardens, communal spaces, and mixed-use amenities.

Jonah Ing of Swire Properties shared insights from their developments in Singapore and Thailand, emphasizing tenant engagement and placemaking. “Successful high-density projects create a sense of belonging and connection to place,” he said, underscoring the importance of design that responds to local lifestyles and cultural practices.

8. Landscape Urbanism and Infrastructure

David D. Jung of AECOM Asia articulated the growing importance of landscape urbanism in Southeast Asia’s urban development. His presentation highlighted how integrating natural systems with infrastructure enhances resilience and livability.

Jung recounted his experience with the Guadalupe River Park in San Jose, California, where a flood control channel was transformed into a vibrant community asset. This model of ecological infrastructure is increasingly relevant in Southeast Asia, where cities face flooding, heat stress, and biodiversity loss.

“Designing with natural processes rather than against them is critical,” Jung asserted. He pointed to initiatives in Singapore and Bangkok that incorporate green corridors, wetlands, and permeable surfaces to manage stormwater and improve urban microclimates.

This holistic approach requires architects to collaborate closely with landscape architects, engineers, and planners. It also aligns with regional sustainability goals and enhances urban resilience amid climate challenges.

9. Building Effective Local Partnerships

The symposium repeatedly emphasised that local partnerships are indispensable for successful regional practice. Navigating Southeast Asia’s diverse contexts demands trust, cultural fluency, and shared vision.

Shannon Ho, Executive Director of AEDAS and symposium moderator, remarked, “Local partners provide invaluable insights into community needs, regulatory landscapes, and construction practices.” She encouraged architects to invest time in relationship-building and knowledge exchange.

Examples from SOM and KPF illustrate how joint ventures and design collaborations leverage complementary strengths. Local firms bring contextual expertise and networks, while international firms contribute technical innovation and global perspectives.

Practitioners should also engage with local educational institutions and professional bodies to foster talent pipelines and cultural exchange. This long-term commitment builds credibility and adaptability in the region.

10. Hong Kong’s Strategic Position

Hong Kong’s role as a gateway to Southeast Asia was a recurring theme. Its geographic proximity, economic openness, and mature professional networks position it as an ideal base for regional expansion.

John Chan highlighted Hong Kong’s advantages: “Hong Kong is one of the freest economic cities in the world, making it a natural hub for outreach to ASEAN markets.” The city’s established infrastructure supports logistics, finance, and talent mobility.

Moreover, Hong Kong’s architectural community has cultivated strong ties with Southeast Asian counterparts through initiatives like the AIA Hong Kong’s regional visits and knowledge-sharing programs. These efforts facilitate market entry and collaborative opportunities.

However, practitioners must also recognize Hong Kong’s limitations, including high operational costs and competitive market dynamics. Balancing these factors requires strategic planning and leveraging Hong Kong’s strengths as a springboard rather than a sole locus.

11. Key Action Items for Practitioners

Drawing from the symposium’s rich discourse, the following action items can guide architectural practitioners seeking to expand into Southeast Asia:

• Develop Collaborative Frameworks: Establish partnerships with reputable local firms and multidisciplinary teams early in project development to navigate regulatory and cultural complexities effectively.

• Invest in Cultural Competency: Engage deeply with local histories, social dynamics, and client expectations to design contextually resonant architecture.

• Prioritize Sustainability: Integrate sustainable design principles holistically, including material selection, energy efficiency, and ecological infrastructure, to meet regional environmental imperatives.

• Explore Material Innovation: Consider sustainable timber and other environmentally responsible materials that align with climate goals and regional aesthetics.

• Focus on High-Density Urban Solutions: Design housing and mixed-use developments that balance density with community well-being, incorporating green spaces and social amenities.

• Leverage Hong Kong’s Position: Utilize Hong Kong as a strategic base for regional operations, capitalizing on its connectivity and professional networks.
• Engage with Professional Networks: Participate in regional forums, educational exchanges, and industry associations to build knowledge and relationships.
• Maintain Flexibility: Adapt design and business strategies to evolving regulations, market conditions, and client needs across diverse Southeast Asian contexts.

Conclusion

Southeast Asia presents a compelling frontier for architectural practitioners ready to embrace complexity, innovation, and collaboration. The AIA Hong Kong symposium illuminated pathways for meaningful engagement, emphasizing that success lies in integrating global expertise with local wisdom, championing sustainability, and cultivating enduring partnerships. By adopting these principles, architects can contribute to shaping resilient, vibrant, and culturally rich urban environments across Southeast Asia.

Author: Eric Ho, AIA Hong Kong 2025 President 
Based on: AIA Hong Kong AGM & Building Regional Practice Symposium
Date: October 25, 2025  

This article synthesises insights from the AIA Hong Kong AGM & Building Regional Practice Symposium held on October 25, 2025, at the Miller Theater, Asia Society, sponsored by AHEC, AECOM, and supported by HKIA, RAIA International Chapter, RIBA Hong Kong Chapter, and UAP Hong Kong.

Full transcript of the event is available here: 

BuildingRegionalPractice_FullTranscript