Museum of Emotions / Edition #3 3rd prize winner - Huei Shyang Lim

We’d like to take the opportunity to introduce you to the 3rd prize winner of our "Museum of Emotions #3" competition – Huei Shyang Lim from Malaysia!

Huei Shyang Lim

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.

I’ve just graduated from Taylor’s University Malaysia as a LAM Part 1 Graduate and currently working as a freelance architectural designer in both Malaysia and Singapore.

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?

After graduating I’ve done a variety of projects with different scales and purposes, including residential, commercial, conservations, conceptual (competitions), public and communal projects, furniture design, etc. I would say the nature of my occupation has granted me the opportunity to participate in different projects across a variety of scales, functions, and locations. I enjoy exploring and developing every project regardless of its scale/purpose/location as I believe every project has its own spark.

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

Architecture to me is more than just a profession that creates spaces and constructs physical matter, but a soul-searching reminder for human beings to relate to themselves, to the space, to the buildings, to the history and to their life. The role of architect is to create beauty not only for the eyes, but for the mind and the heart.

Why do you participate in architecture competitions?

Architectural competitions are very different from the daily projects that I’ve come over with. The nature of the competitions allows me to explore, reflect, learn, create and experiment with new ideas and skills. Throughout the process, I’ve also gotten the chance to refine and develop my own beliefs and narratives towards architecture.

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

As architects, we are great learners and risk takers. To quote the famous Tadao Ando for this: “You must risk moving into a dangerous area in order to fully take advantage of your skills and eventually win the match.” Take the first step, start the match and try to win it. The process is fruitful. You will be inspired when you try to inspire.