Design Advisor of Noetic Creative

Principle Designer of Takao Kawaski

Takao Kawasaki was born in 1944 in Yokohama and graduated from Kuwasawa Design School in 1964. He was started to cooperate with Rei Kawakubo (Comme des Garçons) for most of the architect and interior design projects since 1975. He also became one of the team members of Tendo Mokko at Seibu, Takami Design House and joined Studio Strawberry Fields in 1978.

Design Advisor of Noetic Creative

Principal of IIJIMA DESIGN

Naoki Iijima was born in Saitama Prefecture in 1949, Naoki Iijima is a celebrated interior designer with several decades of experience. He graduated from Musashino Art University with a specialization in Craft and Industrial Design. Iijima has shaped Japan's interior design landscape since the late 1960s.

After gaining experience at the renowned design firm Super Potato, where he worked on iconic projects such as Bar Radio, OLD NEW, and MUJI Aoyama, Iijima established his studio, Naoki Iijima Design Office, in 1985. His innovative approach and creative vision have placed him at the forefront of global design, contributing to numerous high-profile projects in Japan and internationally.

Iijima's impressive portfolio includes projects such as THE WALL, Itami Juzo Residence, Uchiyanagiya, 5S New York, Blupond Seoul, Hobonichi Itoi Shinbun Office, PMO Office Buildings, Kogakuin University Learning Commons, as well as showrooms like STONES. His work has been instrumental in defining modern space design through a blend of functionality and aesthetic appeal, pushing the boundaries of what is possible in interior environments.

Design Advisor of Noetic Creative

Principal of TED Associates

President of SSOJ Japan

Tomohisa Nagai is a highly respected figure in the Japanese design industry. His illustrious career spans architecture, interior design, product design, and design management. Born in Tokyo, Mr. Nagai is the Executive Producer of Ted Associates (Total Environmental Design Associates), a firm he founded after working for the Seibu Department Store. His work reflects a deep commitment to creating timeless, innovative environments that transcend conventional design boundaries.

At Ted Associates, Mr. Nagai holds a significant role. He is also the Non-Executive Co-Chairman and Board Advisor for the Sky Design Awards. In this capacity, he plays a key role in recognizing and promoting visionary design projects on an international scale. His influence extends to his role as the President of SSOJ Japan and as a core member of esteemed design organizations such as the Japan Design Consultants Association (JDCA), the Japan Interior Design Conference (IDM), and KU/KAN (Space Design Organization). Additionally, he actively participates in the Japan Space Design Award Committee, further solidifying his influence in Japan's design landscape.

Mr. Nagai has been crucial in connecting Japan's design scene with global influences. For the past decade, he has collaborated with international designers, inviting them to Japan and facilitating cross-cultural design exchanges. This dedication to global cooperation has enhanced his projects and contributed to the broader Japanese design industry, fostering innovation and fresh perspectives.

FOUNDER of Old Kan

Shohei Urata is a visionary interior designer, born in 1987 in Sapporo, Hokkaido. He began his design career in 2011, working at a local interior design firm, where he developed a strong foundation in crafting dynamic, functional spaces. In 2014, Urata joined A.N.D. (Aoyama Nomura Design) at NOMURA Co., Ltd., one of Japan's leading design firms, where he spent six formative years working on high-profile projects in the retail, restaurant, and hospitality sectors. His tenure with A.N.D. allowed him to refine his approach to spatial design, especially within the realm of luxury environments.

In April 2020, Urata established his own design studio, Old Kan, where he has since expanded his portfolio across a broad spectrum of design genres, with a focus on restaurants, retail stores, and bridal facilities. His expertise extends into the luxury market, where he brings a meticulous attention to detail, combining opulent materials and innovative design solutions to create bespoke spaces that exude elegance and sophistication.

Founder of VD_A (Japan)

Victor Lau, a highly skilled interior designer with over 20 years of experience, is a crucial member of Noetic Creative Corporation. His expertise is crafting unforgettable environments for luxury hotels, resorts, and restaurants. Born in Hong Kong and having lived in Tokyo for more than two decades, Victor deeply understands Japanese culture. His unique blend of sensitivity and innovation, stemming from his fluency in Japanese, Cantonese, and English, allows him to approach design projects with a multicultural perspective.

After completing the renowned Interior Design Seminar at Tokyo Polytechnic University, Victor gained 11 years of experience at Hashimoto Yukio Design Studio Co., Ltd., working on significant projects throughout Japan. His approach is heavily influenced by Japan's design principles, emphasizing simplicity, harmony, and meticulous attention to detail while also incorporating a fresh, international perspective.

Victor's designs go beyond following trends; they tell stories by blending cultural nuances with a contemporary sensibility, resulting in spaces that resonate with local and global audiences.

Director・Founder of RON DESIGN (Japan)

Ryoko Ogoshi is a highly respected interior architect and the Founder and Director of RON DESIGN, known for her expertise in crafting elegant, luxurious spaces. Born in Japan, Ogoshi graduated from Showa Women's University in 1992, after which she began her career at Obayashi Corporation's Design Department, one of Japan's premier design and construction firms.

In 2014, she launched RON DESIGN, a boutique firm specializing in high-end interior architecture. Her passion for creating sophisticated, tailor-made luxury residences quickly became the cornerstone of her practice. Ogoshi’s work is renowned for its ability to blend Japanese minimalist principles with contemporary global trends, providing a timeless sense of elegance and refinement.

Ogoshi's commitment to enhancing her craft led her to earn a Post Graduate Diploma from The Interior Design Schoolin the UK in 2015, followed by a Master of Arts from Kyoto University of the Arts in 2016. Her diverse academic background allows her to approach each project with a unique perspective, focusing on the meticulous design details that define the luxury residential sector.

Her talents have been widely recognized on the global stage. In 2018, she was awarded the Luxury Residences - Asia Pacific prize at The International Design & Architecture Awards, followed by an Honorable Mention at the IAA Awards the same year. In 2019, she was selected as a finalist for the Andrew Martin Interior Designer of the Year Award, further cementing her status as a leading figure in luxury interior design.

Founder of Atelier E (Japan & Hong Kong)

Enoch Hui is the founder of Atelier E, an acclaimed architecture and interior design studio that he established in 2009. With his architectural education from the University of Bath and professional experience in both the UK and Hong Kong, Hui has developed a unique design philosophy focused on creating seamless, engaging spaces. His projects span a range of sectors, from residential and retail to exhibition design, with an emphasis on sensory-driven, interconnected environments.

In 2024, Hui expanded Atelier E by launching a branch in Japan, marking a significant milestone in the firm's international growth. This move highlights his commitment to integrating cross-cultural influences in his work, blending Japanese minimalist aesthetics with the innovative design principles that define Atelier E.

Beyond his practice, Hui is deeply involved in the design community. He is a full member of the Hong Kong Designers Association (HKDA) and has served on the executive committee of the Hong Kong Interior Design Association (HKIDA). He also chairs the Asia Pacific Interior Design Awards (APIDA) and was named one of Perspectivemagazine’s 40 Under 40 in 2013. His influence extends into academia, where he frequently acts as a guest critic for design schools both locally and internationally

FF&E Designer of RON DESIGN (Japan)

Hiromi Hiroshima is an accomplished FF&E (Furniture, Fixtures, and Equipment) designer, renowned for her innovative and sophisticated approach to interior design. Her distinguished career spans several notable achievements and contributions to the design industry.

Graduating from Rikkyo University in 2002, Hiroshima embarked on her professional journey with Westmont Hospitality Group, where she honed her skills in hospitality design. In 2007, she furthered her expertise by obtaining a Certificate in Interior Design from KLC School of Design in the UK. This educational advancement paved the way for her subsequent role at Noriko Sawayama Design & Associates in the UK, where she developed a keen eye for detail and luxury.

In 2015, Hiroshima returned to Japan and joined Aoyama Nomura Design, where her work quickly garnered attention for its elegance and innovation. Her exceptional talent was recognized in 2017 when she received the prestigious Andrew Martin Interior Design of the Year Award.

Continuing her impressive career, Hiroshima became an FF&E Designer at RON DESIGN in 2021. Her contributions have been pivotal in elevating the firm’s design projects. Her work has been consistently celebrated, including winning the Luxury Residences - Asia Pacific category at The International Design & Architecture Awards 2022. Additionally, she received the Silver Prize for Interior Design Residential at the Sky Design Award 2022.

In 2023, Hiroshima’s talent was further recognized with the Design Et Al Elite Award for Elite Luxury Residences, affirming her status as a leading figure in the industry. Her outstanding achievements continued in 2024, when she was honored with the International Design & Architecture Awards 2023, winning the award for Interior Design Scheme - Global.

Hiromi Hiroshima's career is a testament to her dedication to excellence and her ability to create transformative spaces that resonate with luxury and sophistication.

Founder of Akira Nakagomi Design (Japan)

Akira Nakagomi, born in Tokyo, Japan, in 1977, is a distinguished Japanese designer known for his innovative approach and keen eye for detail. With a solid academic foundation and extensive industry experience, Nakagomi has made significant contributions to the field of design.

In 2002, Nakagomi completed his Master’s course in Civil and Architectural Engineering at Hosei University, where he developed a deep understanding of architectural principles and design methodologies. Following his academic achievements, he joined TYD, where he worked from 2002 to 2014. During his tenure at TYD, Nakagomi honed his skills and gained valuable experience, establishing himself as a talented designer with a unique perspective.

In 2015, Nakagomi took a significant step in his career by founding AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN. This move marked the beginning of a new chapter, allowing him to bring his creative vision to life on his own terms. Through AKIRA NAKAGOMI DESIGN, Nakagomi has continued to push the boundaries of design, creating spaces that are both aesthetically striking and functionally exceptional.

Nakagomi’s work is characterized by its integration of architectural precision and innovative design, reflecting his background in civil and architectural engineering. His contributions to the field have garnered recognition and respect, solidifying his reputation as a leading designer in Japan and beyond.

Founder and CEO, and Director of LIGHTLINKS (Japan, Hong Kong & Jakarta)

Koichi Tanaka is the founder and CEO, and Director of LIGHTLINKS, a Japanese lighting designer and consultant and has a wealth of experience in Japan, Hong Kong and Europe. He graduated from University College London with a Master’s degree in Light and Lighting, which is Europe's long standing lighting specialist graduate course. He has worked for several well-known lighting manufacturers and design firms in Japan and Europe. His professional background will make it possible in a design process to easily communicate with the project managers, architects, designers, contractors, and other consultants for any type of international projects.

LIGHTLINKS INTERNATIONAL LIMITED was founded in Hong Kong and Tokyo to provide professional lighting design and consulting services for wide range of projects. LIGHTLINKS's design philosophy is literally based on “LINKAGE”. They see LIGHT as a valuable media, which can link people with society and function as a bridge between people who have different cultures and custom and believe LIGHT is something that can link art, design and technology. Some of the major works include: in Hong Kong, “The Mills”, “Central Market”, “The Quayside”, in Macau “MGM Cotai Emerald Villas”, “Melco Studio City Phase2”, In China, “Hyatt Regency Liberation Square Chongqing”, “Shenzhen Prince Bay K11&Dpark”, “Nohga Hotel Akihabara Tokyo” in Japan, etc. 

Founder of PplusP Creations (Hong Kong)

Wesley Liu is the founder of PplusP Creations, a leading design firm celebrated for its innovative approach to architecture and interior design. Liu’s career is distinguished by his deep understanding of both contemporary design and cultural nuances.

With a solid educational foundation in architecture and design, Wesley Liu embarked on his professional journey with a strong commitment to excellence. He gained valuable experience working at Sogo Design, where he developed a profound appreciation for Japanese culture and design aesthetics. This experience significantly influenced his approach to design, allowing him to seamlessly blend modern aesthetics with cultural sensitivity.

In 2005, Liu co-founded PplusP Creations, a firm renowned for its creative and forward-thinking solutions. Under his leadership, the firm has earned acclaim for its unique design philosophy, which integrates cutting-edge design principles with a deep respect for cultural contexts. PplusP Creations has been involved in a diverse array of projects, including residential, commercial, and hospitality spaces, each reflecting Liu’s dedication to creating meaningful and impactful environments.

Wesley Liu’s work is characterized by its ability to merge artistic vision with practical design solutions, and his understanding of Japanese culture adds a distinctive layer to his projects. His contributions to the field have garnered recognition and respect, setting new standards in contemporary architecture and interior design.

As the driving force behind PplusP Creations, Wesley Liu continues to push the boundaries of design, combining his cultural insights with innovative solutions to create exceptional spaces.

Co-founders of OFT Interiors Ltd.

CM Jao (Left) and Ken Cheung (Right) were graduated from the department of design of the Hong Kong Polytechnic University (PolyU) successively. They have accumulated a wealth of experience of interior design in their careers in internationally renowned architecture and interior design firms, and meanwhile possess international vision and pioneering thinking ability. Since its inception in 2013, Oft Interiors Ltd., has provided many solutions to the most complex design challenges in a rule-breaking manner.

CM and Ken are skilled in analyzing and demonstrating the spatial logic of different consumption scenes such as commerce, shopping and entertainment, so as to design and catalyze more possibilities of space. Through completing "spatial innovation experiments" again and again, they promote the development of "experiential consumption scene" and reshape the unique genes and trends of the brand.

Their works of high-impact, atmosphere and dramaticism have been recognized by authorities all over the world, and their project has won a series of international topdesign awards around the world as well.

Founder and Design Director of in Him's Interior Design

Samuel Lam Chun Him, founder of In Him's Interior Design, graduated with a degree in Interior Architecture Design from the Academy of Art University, San Francisco, in 2008. Since establishing his firm in 2010, Samuel has become known for his steadfast advocacy of pragmatism and minimalism. His work has garnered significant recognition, earning prestigious international awards such as the APIDA, Architecture MasterPrize, and Best of Year.

As an interior designer in Hong Kong, Samuel navigates the unique challenge of creating meaningful interactions between life and space, within the constraints of limited urban environments. His constant pursuit of innovation has led him to explore the restructuring of space, continuously redefining the relationship between human life and architecture.

Founder of Imagennix

Chair, Strategy and Development Advisory Council of the AIA Hong Kong Chapter

Sky Design Awards Executive Advisor Committee (EAC)

Scott Brooks is a professional architectural photographer and strategic planning consultant with over 30 years of experience advising on development projects and corporate structures throughout Asia.

His notable planning assignments include leading the engagement, incorporating work from specialists in tourism, infrastructure, engineering, and transportation to develop land-use programs and economic models that served as the foundation for the master plan to redevelop the city center of Aqaba, Jordan. He also developed conceptual positioning and facilities programs for the successful tender of development rights for the two international resort hotels at Ocean Park Hong Kong and led the Nikko Hotel’s development team in winning management contracts for overseas hotels in competitive bids with significantly larger international brands. Scott currently serves as Chair of the strategic planning task force and communications committee of the AIA Hong Kong Chapter.

Peggy, founder and Art Director of Noetic Creative Corporation, blends a deep understanding of design, branding, and FF&E with a commitment to storytelling and strategic vision. With a career that began in Canada across advertising, graphic design, and visual merchandising, Peggy’s expertise extends to exhibition design and high-end home décor.

Her leadership at Merci Magazine and the Sky Design Awards has established her as a key figure in the design world. At Noetic Creative, Peggy leads with a refined eye and collaborative spirit, crafting sophisticated environments for luxury hospitality and retail clients. Her work merges creativity with practicality, delivering spaces that resonate deeply with clients and their audiences.

Peggy’s approach is grounded in listening, collaboration, and a genuine passion for creating meaningful, impactful designs. She believes in the power of design to tell compelling stories and drive success, always with a focus on elegance and strategic intent.

Peggy Lui, born in Hong Kong, raised in Belgium and Canada, and immersed in art and design from an early age. Her passion for creativity led her to study Graphic Design & Advertising at George Brown College. This was followed by further education in digital media and business management. In 2013, Peggy founded Merci Media, a dynamic company dedicated to lifestyle magazines, program curation, and event management. As the driving force behind Merci Media, she oversees the editing of Merci Magazine and Merci Design Workshop. In these magazines, she interviews renowned entrepreneurs and designers, and develops impactful brand positioning strategies for corporate design. Peggy's achievements extend beyond the media. In 2016, she was nominated as the Communication and Event Co-Chair of the Retail Design Institute HK Chapter, showcasing her expertise in retail design and events.

Peggy's contribution to the design industry is evident through her curation of key events in Hong Kong. Notable examples include the RIBA Hong Kong Chapter TALK! 2015, 2016, and Celebrate! 2015, 2016, HKIA Furniture Design competition. She also played a vital role in the launch of the Retail Design Institute HK Chapter in 2016. In 2018, she collaborated with a key partner to curate and bring Design Week Kyoto to Hong Kong. In 2019, she curated the Sky Design Awards. In 2021, she invited by JCD to became one of the judges for Japan Kukan Design Awards. This showcased her commitment to fostering international design connections. In 2022, she created a groundbreaking newsletter “One Story” that spotlights and celebrates the essence of designers and entrepreneurial design thinking. With a dedication to the design industry. Through insightful narratives and compelling visuals, the newsletter paints a vivid picture of each individual's journey, their inspirations, challenges, and ultimately, the design value they contribute to the global landscape.

Partner and Principal at Conran and Partners

Tina is an Interior Designer and Architect with a diverse portfolio stretching across many contexts and continents, from hotel and restaurant design to high-end residential and boutique retail projects. She is passionate about travel and loves designing spaces that enhance the enjoyment of life.

Tina leads design teams in both the UK and Hong Kong and was instrumental in building the team in Asia. She is very hands on as she directs projects across the globe and thrives on the cultural exchange and collaboration this entails.

With every project, Tina develops the client brief by delving into the specific context and history to create a bespoke narrative and design language that tells a unique story.

She believes in style over fashion in design to ensure the result is timeless and remains fresh. With her main focus on hospitality, many of the lessons learnt from her extensive experience are applied to her other projects to create an equally experiential solution.

Tina joined the practice in 1997 and joined the board of Conran and Partners in 2016. As a Principal, Tina jointly leads the practice and its overall strategic direction through its UK and Hong Kong studios.

Partner and Principal at Conran and Partners

As an Architect and Designer, Tim is passionate about creating authentic experiences centred around cultural spirit and personality.

He brings his knowledge across different sectors, including hospitality, residential and workplace, to design buildings and spaces that reflect holistic contemporary lifestyle needs and desires. Tim firmly believes that successfully designed buildings and spaces should be fundamentally at ease with themselves in a way that is tangible to their users and always have a sense of place and aspiration.

Tim puts these principles into practice by directly leading a number of projects, large and small, at home and abroad. He has a particular interest in the reuse of existing buildings both from cultural and environmental sustainability perspectives but has also been very influenced by his work in Japan, where the elegance of simple ideas is so valued.

Tim joined Conran and Partners in 1997 and the board in 2008. As a Principal, Tim jointly leads the practice and its overall strategic direction through its UK and Hong Kong studios.