MICROHOME Kingspan competition Student Award winners - Universiti Putra Malaysia

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the Student Award winners of our "MICROHOME competition" – Yoong Zheng Quan, Cheah Kim Hoong, Branda Wee and Pang Jian Sheng from Malaysia!

Yoong Zheng Quan, Cheah Kim Hoong, Branda Wee and Pang Jian Sheng

Please tell us about your company (when it was founded, where it is based, how many employees, etc) Alternatively, if you do not have a company, please give us some insights on your own professional/academia background.

We are a team of passionate final-year students from Universiti Putra Malaysia (UPM), united by our love for architecture and design. Each of us brings a unique set of skills, ranging from technical proficiency to creative innovation. Together, we aim to showcase the best of UPM’s talent in this competition, combining creativity, technical expertise, and purposeful design to make a meaningful impact.

Brief information about the projects that you/your company have been involved with. For instance, what scale have you focused on/preferred, any significant projects where the company/ individuals have been Involved?

We have engaged in various small to medium-sized projects within both academic and architectural practice realms. These include residential developments, like apartment in Kuala Lumpur CBD area, research on the impact of remote work on Malaysian housing, and conceptual designs for flexible working spaces. Additionally, we've contributed to urban community development through micro-architecture interventions, such as green walkways with cultural pop-up stores, and have explored modular housing solutions for professional volunteers and refugees.

What does architecture mean to you and what is the role of an architect in your society?

From our standpoint, architecture is a profound way to serve our community and society. It signifies a commitment to giving back what we take from the environment and society and address the world's pressing needs with innovative solutions. The role of an architect goes far beyond designing buildings; they are storytellers, community builders, and problem solvers. They weave the narratives of communities into their designs and create spaces that foster connection and well-being while addressing global issues like climate change and social inequality. Ultimately, architects contribute to making the world more sustainable, inclusive, and vibrant for future generations.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

We participate in architecture competitions because they inspire us to explore new ideas and grow as designers. These challenges push us to think creatively and tackle real-world issues in the built environment. Competitions also give us a chance to learn from and collaborate with others in the field, enriching our perspectives and expanding our skills. Through these experiences, we hope to contribute meaningful, sustainable solutions while continuing to improve and evolve as architects.

What advice would you give to individuals who struggle to decide whether it would be beneficial for them to participate in architecture competitions?

For those uncertain about participating in architecture competitions, consider the tangible benefits: these contests push participants to think outside the box, refine design skills, and tackle real-world challenges. Beyond the competition itself, there are opportunities to connect with like-minded peers and industry professionals, receive constructive feedback that can elevate one's work, and enhance portfolios with standout projects. Experience can be a pivotal moment in a career, offering growth and insights that extend far beyond the competition results.