The built environment plays a pivotal role in shaping the way we live, work, and interact with our surroundings. In Asia, a region rich in cultural diversity and rapid urban development, a select group of visionary designers and architects are leading the charge in redefining the spaces that define our daily lives. From innovative skyscrapers and sustainable urban planning to groundbreaking interior designs, these design giants are pushing the boundaries of creativity, functionality, and environmental responsibility. In this article, we spotlight 10 of the most influential figures in Asia’s built environment design, honouring individuals whose work and ideas are leaving an indelible mark on the future of architecture, interior design, and urban spaces across the continent.
(This list is presented in no particular order and does not reflect a ranking of the designers’ achievements.)
1. Steve Leung
Steve Leung has amassed four decades shaping Asia’s architectural and design landscape. In 1987, he founded his architectural and urban planning consultancy, which evolved into Steve Leung Architects Ltd. (SLA) and Steve Leung Designers Ltd. (SLD) in 1997. Headquartered in Hong Kong and Shanghai, SLD expanded to Beijing, Guangzhou, Bangkok, and Milan, becoming one of Asia’s largest interior design practices. In 2018, Steve Leung Design Group (SLD) was listed on the Hong Kong Stock Exchange.
Beyond his practice, Steve served as the President of the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) from 2017 to 2020 and as Executive Director of the Design Committee at the China National Interior Decoration Association (CIDA). In 2014, he co-founded the C Foundation to promote design education and development across Mainland China.
His outstanding work has earned him numerous accolades, including being conferred the “Interior Designer of the Year” by the Andrew Martin International Interior Design Awards and listed among the “30 Most Influential Designers” by Forbes China. In 2022, Steve received the “Lifetime Achievement Award” from the Hong Kong Interior Design Association (HKIDA), honouring his outstanding contributions to the industry. That same year, he was also recognised as a Fellow of International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) through the IFI Global Awards Program, a distinction celebrating his lasting impact on global interior design. Further cementing his impact, Steve was also awarded the Bronze Bauhinia Star (BBS) by the Government of HKSAR in 2022, in recognition of his notable contributions to educating young architects and designers, and fostering sustainable development in Hong Kong and the Mainland.
His commitment to the design community extends beyond his personal accolades. In 2014, Steve founded the C Foundation, China’s first voluntary, non-profit charity in the design community. With the mission “Design for Good, Co-Create the Future,” the Foundation focuses on creating social value through design education, research, talent development, industry advocacy, and international exchange.
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“I am committed to continuing to advance the design industry, promote design education, and support the development of aspiring young designers. Together, let us uphold the legacy of design and create a meaningful impact on our society through design.” – Steve Leung
Editor’s Note: Steve Leung earns his place on our list for his globally celebrated design portfolio, on top of leading one of Asia’s few publicly listed design firms. The Steve Leung Design Group sets the standard for professional excellence with its award-winning projects, international footprint, and enduring influence on the global design stage.
Read more: Interview with Steve Leung
2. Keat Ong
Architect by training and multidisciplinary designer by profession, Prof. Keat Ong is a celebrated, awards-winning designer. He is the founder/ design principal of Keat Ong Design and co-founder of SCKD Pte Ltd as well as 3 terms president of Society of Interior Designers, Singapore (SIDS). Keat has established and chaired the Singapore Interior Design Accreditation Council (SIDAC) from 2021-2023, which oversees the competency of interior design practitioners in Singapore.
He is currently presiding over the Asia Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA), an alliance of 15 national-level professional associations, for a second term (2023-2025) and has formed the Asia Pacific Interior Designers’ Accreditation Program (AP-ID-AP) to elevate the standards of practice in the region. He has been named one of Asia’s Top Designers in the Singapore Design Awards 2014 and a Designers of the Year 2016/2017 by the famed INTERIOR DESIGN Magazine. He was also honored with the title of “The Most Influential Designer” by China’s national body for Interior design, the China Building Decoration Association in 2017. He is also an Adjunct/ Visiting Professor to 8 universities including the famed China Academy of Art and Taylor’s University as well as a judge to many prestigious awards internationally. Keat is the fifth person in history to be conferred the highest accolade by the Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS), Singapore’s national body for interior designers – the Lifetime Achievement Award in 2023. Keat is also the author of “Injecting Architecture”, a book about his methodology in design demonstrated through his collection of selected projects.
Editor’s Note: Keat Ong earns his place among Asia’s top interior designers for his landmark contributions in his current role as President of APSDA, where he spearheaded the launch of the first-of-its-kind AP-ID-AP accreditation programme in the region. This initiative lays the foundation for future generations of certified practitioners and raises the bar for design excellence across Asia. Some of his high-profile projects, such as the Changsha City Library and Museum, the Dongting Lake Museum, and culturally-driven developments like the Mosuo-themed museum and hotel, have made him one of the most recognisable faces in the Asian design scene.
Read more: Interview with Keat Ong
3. Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu
Lyndon Neri and Rossana Hu are a power couple in Asia’s design scene. Founders of the internationally acclaimed Neri&Hu Design and Research Office, headquartered in Shanghai, the duo has propelled the studio to global prominence. Their portfolio spans iconic projects such as The Waterhouse at South Bund, Tsingpu Yangzhou Retreat, Aranya Art Center, Nantou City Guesthouse, and The Fuzhou Teahouse.
Together, Lyndon and Rossana are frequent jurors for prestigious international design competitions, keynote speakers at global forums, and Visiting Professors at leading institutions, including the Harvard Graduate School of Design, the Yale School of Architecture, and others. Rossana was appointed Chair of the Department of Architecture at Tongji University in 2021 and has served as Chair of the Department of Architecture at the University of Pennsylvania Weitzman School of Design since the spring semester of 2024. Lyndon is Visiting Faculty at the Princeton University School of Architecture for the spring semesters of 2024 and 2025. Their contributions to architecture and design have been recognised with numerous accolades. Most recently, they jointly received the 2025 American Academy of Arts and Letters Award in Architecture, and Lyndon has been conferred an Honorary Fellowship by the American Institute of Architects (AIA).
Editor’s Note: The cross-disciplinary approach of Lyndon and Rossana, spanning architecture, interior and product design, and branding, has made a profound impact on contemporary design. Their work is not only defined by strong conceptual narratives and cultural sensitivity, but also by a constant push for innovation and relevance. Through their thought leadership, lectures, and global collaborations, the duo continues to shape and inspire the design community worldwide.
4. Kengo Kuma
Kengo Kuma is a renowned Japanese architect known for his sustainable, context-sensitive designs. Kuma’s works include museums, cultural institutions, and public buildings.
Notable projects include the Asakusa Culture and Tourism Center, Nezu Museum, and the V&A Dundee in Scotland. Kuma’s philosophy revolves around creating architecture that fosters a connection to the environment and community, with a deep respect for tradition while embracing modern innovation.
Editor’s Note: Kengo Kuma was awarded by the International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers the 2024 IFI Prize, to give recognition to those championing the visionaries who shape our built environment and elevate the human experience through design. With iconic works such as the Japan National Stadium and the stunning design of the V&A Dundee in Scotland, Kuma’s influence on the global design landscape is undeniable, making him a deserving figure in our Top 10 list.
5. Kenneth Cobonpue
Kenneth Cobonpue is an internationally renowned Filipino industrial designer and furniture visionary, celebrated for his luxury handcrafted furnishings that blend innovation with traditional craftsmanship. Born in Cebu, Philippines, he studied Industrial Design at Pratt Institute in New York and refined his skills in Italy and Germany before returning home to establish KENNETHCOBONPUE in 1995. His brand, known for its distinctive fusion of organic forms and contemporary design, is distributed globally with showrooms and offices in Cebu, Manila, New York, Porto, and Munich.
With a design philosophy rooted in nature and artistry, Cobonpue has created award-winning collections that have been showcased in prestigious exhibitions worldwide, earning him international acclaim. His mastery of natural materials such as rattan, bamboo, and abaca has redefined modern furniture design, seamlessly blending craftsmanship with innovation. TIME Magazine hailed him as “rattan’s great virtuoso”, recognising his ability to transform traditional materials into contemporary masterpieces. Over the years, he has received numerous accolades, including being named the first Maison et Objet Designer of the Year for Asia in 2014 and receiving the Gawad sa Sining Award for Design in 2020—the highest honor from the Cultural Center of the Philippines (CCP) for his contributions to Philippine arts and culture. In 2023, he was awarded the Pratt Legends Award by Pratt Institute New York for his lasting impact on the global furniture industry.
Beyond furniture, Cobonpue continues to expand his creative vision into immersive spatial experiences. His latest venture, FABLE Café + Lounge, reimagines dining as a seamless blend of nature, art, and design. With his signature style— “unique objects inspired by nature, designed with emotion, and crafted by hand”—he transforms the café into a narrative driven sanctuary where every detail tells a story. The interior is a tactile exploration of organic textures, layering rattan, handwoven fabrics, and sculptural forms to create an environment that is both grounded in nature and elevated by design. Sustainability remains at the core of his work, as he continues to champion eco-conscious materials and processes.
“Fable is a sanctuary where dining meets artistry,” Cobonpue explains. “I wanted to craft a space where every element evokes wonder and connection—my interpretation of nature, where even in its artificial form, it continues to inspire, captivate, and enchant us.”
In addition to his design practice, Cobonpue is dedicated to preserving cultural heritage in furniture making, advocating for sustainable production, and advancing design education. He was the founding faculty of the Industrial Design Program at the University of the Philippines Cebu and has served as chairman and consultant for De La SalleCollege of Saint Benilde’s School of Design and Arts. Actively engaged in academia, government, business, and the creative community, he continuously mentors emerging talents and collaborates with leading designers to shape the future of Southeast Asian design. With new collections and spatial concepts unveiled annually in Milan, Paris, Valencia, Las Vegas, Miami,and New York, Cobonpue remains a pioneering force in contemporary design, sharing his vision with a global audience.
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“Craftsmanship lives through artisans imbued with patience and commitment to excellence, sustaining a heritage of the past that tells stories of the present.” – Kenneth Cobonpue
Editor’s Note: Kenneth Cobonpue is listed among Asia’s top designers owing to his pioneering influence in the world of design. As the founder of his eponymous brand, Cobonpue has transformed Philippine rattan into a globally recognised symbol of craftsmanship and sustainable luxury. His innovative use of natural materials and his ability to merge traditional Filipino weaving techniques with modern design aesthetics have not only redefined furniture design but have also elevated the Philippine craft to the international stage.
Read more: Interview with Kenneth Cobonpue
6. Paul Kenko Tange
Paul Kenko Tange is a distinguished Japanese architect known for his innovative approach to modern architecture. As the head of TANGE ASSOCIATES, he brings together traditional Japanese design elements with contemporary modernist principles. His work is characterised by a focus on sustainability, urban development, and creating harmonious spaces that respect cultural heritage while embracing modern needs.
Paul has been instrumental in numerous high-profile projects, including Tokyo Aquatics Centre for Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Mode Gakuen Cocoon Tower in Tokyo.
Through his visionary designs, he continues to shape the global landscape of architecture, with a strong foundation in Japanese design traditions.
Editor’s Note: Paul Keiko Tange is deserving of acclaim as a recipient of many prestigious awards throughout his career, reflecting his significant contributions to architecture and design. Notably, he was honored with the DFA Lifetime Achievement Award, recognising his enduring impact on the design industry.
7. Jooyun Kim
Jooyun Kim is the Dean of the College of Fine Arts, Hongik University (2024 to present), and a pioneer in space design and branding. He coined the term “space design” in 2000 and established graduate programs in ‘Public Design’ in 2018. Jooyun served as dean of the Graduate School of Industrial Arts from 2016 to 2018 and was a research professor at the Pratt Institute in the U.S.
He held leadership roles as President of KISD and KOSID and Executive Director of IFI. A renowned global speaker, Jooyun has presented at events like the IFI Design Congress and Singapore Design Week. He has also judged prestigious awards, including the UNESCO Creative Cities and the DFA Asia Design Grand Awards.
Jooyun has received numerous accolades, including the President’s Award at the Korea Design Awards (2023) and the Prime Minister’s Award (2015). Most notably, Jooyun received the honour of the 1st Master Public Designer of Seoul Metropolitan Government (2024).
A prolific author, Jooyun has written several books, including Public Design Era (2023) and Space Branding (2020).
Editor’s Note: Jooyun Kim is in our top 10 list owing to his pioneering role in shaping the discourse on space and public design in the region. In 2024, he was named the 1st Master Public Designer by the Seoul Metropolitan Government, a historic accolade that recognizes his profound contributions to the civic realm through design.
8. Joe Cheng (CCD)
Joe Cheng helms Cheng Chung Design (CCD), a luxury interior design firm established three decades ago. Since its inception, CCD has provided interior design and consulting services for over 20 international hotel management groups, including Marriott, InterContinental, Accor, and Hyatt, as well as more than 50 global brands and 100 luxury hotels.
Joe Cheng has led CCD to stellar achievements, most notably ranking first in Interior Design Magazine’s 2022 Top 10 Hospitality List, making it the first Chinese interior design firm to achieve this distinction in the list’s 45-year history. The firm also earned spots in the “Top 500 Asian Brands” in 2019 and 2020. Under his leadership, CCD’s portfolio includes award-winning projects such as the InterContinental Beijing Sanlitun, and in 2023, the Mumian Chengdu project was recognised at the Best of Asia Pacific Design Awards. Joe is also the first jury chair for the Interior Design category at the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) and was honoured as the Chinese Design Person of the Year.
In 2020, CCD was honoured as one of the “Top 500 Most Valuable Brands in China”. In 2024, CCD expanded its global presence by opening a new office in Singapore, establishing it as the Asia Pacific headquarters outside of Greater China. More recently, in April 2025, CCD marked another significant milestone with the official launch of its Milan office, with the launch of the Marcel Wanders + CCD Affiliated Design Studio.
Editor’s Note: What earns Joe Cheng a place on our list is CCD’s unprecedented achievement of ranking first in Interior Design Magazine’s 2022 Top 10 Hospitality List and taking top spot in the list’s 45-year history. It is a distinction that speaks volumes of Cheng’s visionary leadership and the studio’s international design relevance. Joe Cheng also receives widespread recognition within the global design community as the first jury chair for Interior Design at the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH) in the US. He has also been named Chinese Design Person of the Year and UN cultural ambassador, further cementing his role as a bridge between design, culture, and international dialogue.
Read related: Interview with Joe Cheng
9. Vipavadee Pao Patpongpibul
Vipavadee Pao Patpongpibul is the founder and CEO of P49 Deesign & Associates, one of the largest and most influential interior design firms in Thailand and Southeast Asia. With a distinguished career spanning several decades, she has gained international acclaim for her work, particularly in the luxury hospitality sector. Under her leadership, P49 Deesign has delivered numerous standout designs that have become benchmarks in the industry.
Her work includes award-winning and iconic projects such as the InterContinental Phuket Resort, Sindhorn Kempinski Hotel Bangkok and Grand Hyatt Erawan Bangkok.
As the first female President of the Thailand Interior Designers’ Association (TIDA), Vipavadee has been a pioneering figure, committed to advancing the interior design profession in Thailand.
Editor’s Note: Vipavadee Pao Patpongpibul has made history as the first female President of the Thailand Interior Designers’ Association (TIDA), where she has championed professional development and elevated the profile of Thai designers on the international stage. As founder and CEO of P49 Deesign, Vipavadee has shaped some of Asia’s most iconic hospitality interiors and an inspiration for designers in the country.
Read more: Interview with Vipavadee Pao Patpongpibul
10. Tony Chi
Tony Chi is a celebrated American interior designer and the founder of tonychi studio, a globally recognised design firm based in New York City.
Co-founded in 1984 with his wife, Tammy Chou, the studio has become a leader in luxury hospitality design, collaborating with brands such as Rosewood Hotels, Ritz Carlton, and Four Seasons.
Tony’s portfolio includes iconic projects like Park Hyatt Shanghai, Andaz 5th Avenue New York, and Rosewood Hong Kong, reflecting his commitment to timeless, innovative design. He has received numerous accolades, including induction into Interior Design’s Hall of Fame in 2009 and the Lawrence Israel Prize in 2015. More recently, he was the recipient of the Lifetime Achievement Award for his contributions to Asian hospitality design by the Interior Design Confederation Singapore (IDCS).
