Jury Panel

Li Xiang, X+ Living (China)

Li Xiang founded X+Living Architectural Design in Shanghai in 2011. Her firm is known for blending art, fashion, and business to create innovative designs across various industries, including culture, retail, and hospitality. She has earned numerous international awards, including four Andrew Martin International Interior Design Awards, 5 Platinum awards and 14 Golden awards in A' Design Awards. Li Xiang was the first Chinese designer invited to serve on the jury of the Frame Awards and was named in FAST COMPANY’s ‘Global: Most Creative People in Business’ in 2020. Under her leadership, X+Living has become a leading design force globally, winning the Best Commercial Firm at the 2022 Architizer A+ Awards.

Nghiêm Đình Toàn, Me+ Architect (Vietnam)

Nghiêm Đình Toàn is the founder of Me+ Architect and holds a master’s degree in project management from Salford University and an architecture degree from the University of Architecture HCMC. He was a key architect at Võ Trọng Nghĩa and A21studio before establishing Me+ Architect. Toàn's work has received international recognition, including winning the prestigious World Architecture Festival (WAF) and becoming the first Vietnamese and youngest winner in WAF history. His project, White Palace Pham Van Dong, was nominated for the WAF finals in 2021. He is also known for his contributions as a judge, speaker, and advisor in the architecture field.

Sidhartha Talwar, Studio Lotus (India)

Sidhartha Talwar leads Architecture & Master Planning at Studio Lotus, a globally recognized design practice. He specializes in large-scale developments with a focus on environmental planning and sustainable construction. A graduate of the TVB School of Habitat Studies, Sidhartha began his career with Gautam Bhatia before co-founding Studio Lotus. His notable projects include Krushi Bhawan, RAAS Jodhpur, and eco-conscious master plans in Jaipur and the Himalayan foothills. Sidhartha actively engages in academic and global design forums, having spoken at the INDE Summit, AIA New York, and Design Shanghai. He is currently on the jury for the Azure Global Awards 2024.

Philip Tang, Ptang Studio (Hong Kong)

Philip Tang founded PTang Studio Ltd in 1999, which has since evolved from a one-man business into a thriving partnership. The firm undertakes a diverse range of projects, from small-scale residential designs to large-scale commercial works, including corporate headquarters and movie launch functions. Philip's work is characterized by a modest style that prioritizes comfort and client preferences. Over the past decades, PTang Studio has become one of the most renowned design studios in the region, with projects spanning across Hong Kong, China, and the Asia-Pacific, earning recognition in various media outlets and winning numerous awards for their design excellence.

Samuel Lee, Designshop (Singapore)

Samuel Lee is the Director at Designshop, an architectural firm in Singapore known for creating meticulously designed buildings of timeless quality. In his role, Samuel plays a key part in diversifying the company’s portfolio and leading projects of various complexities. His design approach focuses on creating spaces that are sensitive to environmental, spatial, and social contexts. He believes in crafting timeless spaces that adapt to the ever-changing needs of society.

Lê Thu Hoài, Me+ Architect (Vietnam)

Lê Thu Hoài is the co-founder and COO of Me+ Architect and an investor in the hospitality, retail, and agriculture sectors. She has extensive experience in project development, legal advisory, and media relations, working with top global hotel management groups such as Mandarin Oriental, Banyan Tree, IHG, Marriott, and Four Seasons. Lê Thu Hoài also plays a significant role in facilitating investment and securing agreements with the Vietnamese government on behalf of international funds.

Realrich Sjarief, RAW Architecture (Indonesia)

Realrich Sjarief is the founder of RAW Architecture in Jakarta and Bandung. A graduate of ITB and UNSW Sydney, he has worked with notable firms, including Foster and Partners in London. Realrich’s designs are inspired by his family’s three-generation legacy of builders and his commitment to craftsmanship. In 2011, he established his firm, winning multiple competitions and accolades. He also founded OMAH Library in 2015 to promote architectural discourse and social initiatives. As an educator, Realrich emphasizes the symbiotic relationship between learning and teaching, striving to create inspiring architecture.

Dr. Kody Kato, ODE (USA)

Dr. Kody Kato is the founder of the Office for Design Evolution (ODE), a studio focused on the intersection of architecture, engineering, materials, and the natural environment. He holds a doctoral degree in architecture with a focus on structural engineering and mathematical biology. Dr. Kato has received numerous awards, including a London Design Award and the Award of Merit for the Shinkenchiku Residential Design Competition in Japan. He was also named One Among Ten Most Dynamic Entrepreneurs by the APAC.

YC Chen, hoo (Hong Kong)

YC Chen is the founder of hoo, established in 2009. A true perfectionist and passionate surfer, YC was born in Shanghai, raised in Hong Kong, and studied in the United States, graduating with honors in Business Administration from the University of Michigan. After 11 years in advertising as a creative director, YC transitioned to interior design, where he now creates one-of-a-kind haute couture homes. He is also a winner of the Perspective 40Under40 Award in 2016, recognized for his creativity and leadership in Asia’s interior design industry.

9. YC Chen, Hoo Interior Design (Hong Kong) .jpg

Jianhe Wu, TY Archistudio (Taiwan)

Jianhe Wu is the founder of TY Archistudio, specializing in architecture, interior design, commercial property design, and construction management. Wu has won multiple awards, including the Good Design Award, A’ Design Gold Award, and IF Design Award. His work spans from intimate residential spaces to large commercial projects, all guided by a philosophy of delivering detailed, aesthetically-driven designs. Wu’s approach is rooted in a clear analysis and deep understanding of his clients’ needs, transforming spaces to improve lives.

Rana Khadra, Jotun (Middle East, India and Africa, MEIA)

As Jotun’s Regional Colour Manager, Rana Khadra brings over a decade of expertise in color trends, design, and innovation. Passionate about the transformative power of hues, she has spearheaded numerous projects that celebrate creativity and individuality. As guest judge for ADA 2024, she evaluates the Best Use of Color category.

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