Three generations, one vision: the power of collaboration in architecture

From chance encounters at Architects 61 to decades of international projects, Ko Shiou Hee, Ben Teng and Leong Lai Ping of K2LD Architects reflect on how curiosity, mentorship and collaboration have shaped their practice — and why architecture remains a profession that enriches lives in unexpected ways. They are recognised in the first, second and fourth editions of the ‘20 Under 45’ programme, which celebrates exceptional Singapore architects.

What were some of your early encounters with one another?

Ben: I met Shiou Hee at Architects 61 whilst doing mostly contract administration work. Curious about his designs, I eventually asked to join his team. When he started K2LD Architects with Ar. David Lee in 2000, I joined the firm. Shiou Hee taught me to always stay curious as an architect.

Shiou Hee: Fashion designer Issey Miyake inspires me — he says curiosity isn't passive but an active search for answers and insights. This sense of curiosity and collaborative approach with people from all walks of life has constantly influenced my architectural practice.

Lai Ping: My journey into architecture began when I first met Shiou Hee as my tutor and mentor at NUS (National University of Singapore) and during my internship. He encouraged me to pursue a Master of Architecture overseas, believing that architecture is not simply an academic subject or profession but a way of life. Travel, exposure, and immersion in the world shape the way I see space, beauty, and purpose. Upon returning to Singapore, I rejoined K2LD, and I've stayed ever since. Shiou Hee’s tireless dedication to nurturing the next generation inspires me to support aspiring architects. We actively host interns from tertiary institutions annually.

Tell us more about the collaborative culture within the firm.

Lai Ping: At K2LD, collaboration has always been at the heart of how we work — it’s something Shiou Hee has constantly emphasised. Over the years, we’ve had the opportunity to collaborate with fellow architects on larger projects. When we designed this office, we tried to create a space that is comfortable for all to share their thoughts. Our pantry is frequently used for informal after-hours conversations about projects, design challenges, and to exchange ideas.

K2LD Architect's pantry area which has hosted many gatherings sharing new ideas and insights. Image: K2LD Architects

That spirit of generosity and collaboration continues to define K2LD’s culture — where we believe that when we help raise the standard of design collectively, the whole industry benefits.

Shiou Hee: Many of our firm's systems, working methods, and branding emerged from these chats. We've even expanded our pantry to include cooking facilities, enabling us to host larger sessions with architects and friends beyond the firm. These informal gatherings help to enrich our perspectives and strengthen bonds.

Having designed many residential homes, how has the design of living spaces evolved in the last decade?

Lai Ping: Homeowners today are more well-travelled and exposed to different ideas. Beyond functionality, they seek something personal and meaningful, drawing on their experiences, identities and memories. Every home we create involves listening closely to their needs and designing well-crafted, comfortable spaces. There's also increased multi-generational living where families want both private and communal spaces.

Ben: Collaboration is vital for any residential project. We see clients as collaborators, spending time listening to understand their needs and building strong relationships. Some clients have even invited us back to enjoy their completed homes.

Let's talk about the Winged House project. Why has this been so meaningful?

Lai Ping: We started this project in 2012 with a couple, creating a beautiful home that they later sold. In 2016, new clients asked us to redo the interior whilst keeping the architecture intact. They then bought surrounding land and asked us to build around the Winged House. We took inspiration from the original architecture to create a master plan for three houses in total. Continuing and evolving the Winged House after 10 years reflects the quality of our original architectural design.

The Winged House. Image: Patrick Bingham-Hall.

You are now building two new houses around the original.

Lai Ping: The original Winged House had a tropical roof expression creating space below it. The roof engaged with the landscape, and the undercroft space was the family's focal point. It captured wind channelling through the site, making the space comfortable without air conditioning. The owner specifically requested similar features in the new houses.

Shiou Hee: The new house continues this big overhang quality whilst the other features a garden pavilion with no internal corridors — you walk beside the garden to reach the rooms, with a double roof system for weather protection.

What other memorable projects have you worked on?

Lai Ping: The Pearl Haven Light Collection in Penang was significant—a 12-year project collaborating with five other architects. We were the only Singaporean firm working with four Malaysian architects on a master plan featuring three five-storey condominium blocks and nineteen waterfront villas.

The Lien Villa Collective. Image: K2LD Architects.

Shiou Hee: At the same time, we worked on the Lien Villa Collective at Holland Park in 2019. Instead of designing all six houses, I proposed engaging different architects. We handled master planning and brought in younger architects who are now well-established.

This collaborative approach extended internationally as well.

Shiou Hee: A Chinese developer approached us after seeing our profile in the first edition of ‘20 Under 45’ in 2004. They wanted us to design 40 houses for Huafa Ecovilla in Zhongshan, China. Lacking sufficient manpower then, I suggested collaborating with other Singapore architects. We formed a team of five, who were mostly from the first edition of ‘20 Under 45’.

The Chinese were surprised by Singapore architects' cosmopolitan nature and actively profiled us in their marketing efforts. This first China project led to a 1,000-house project in Zhuhai and other Chinese ventures.

Since 2000, our firm has evolved and grown in size and scope. Our work now extends across Asia and Asia-Pacific, with many projects receiving international and local accolades. 

Why should one be an architect today?

Ben: I believe architects have the power to enrich someone's life by designing the environment and spaces around them. The architectural discipline is very wide ranging, offering endless opportunities to explore and fulfil your interests and passions. This is true for my family where my wife is a practising architect, and my son is aspiring to become one. My wife is recognised in the third edition of ‘20 Under 45’. 

From left, Ben Teng, Leong Lai Ping and Ko Shiou Hee.

Lai Ping: In the digital era today, architects can ground people by creating real and tangible physical spaces. Architecture is a rare discipline where we are always bringing together many different elements from culture, science, art, history and technology into one space. It reminds people of what is authentic, physical and shared.

Our 25 years of practice have given us the privilege of walking alongside our clients through different stages of their lives —  some were first-time homeowners when we met! Today, they still return to us, seeking not just a design, but a relationship built on trust, memory, and mutual respect.

These moments remind me why architecture matters: in a profession that can sometimes feel hollowed out by speed and efficiency, such continuity brings soul and purpose. It affirms that architecture is ultimately about people and the long-lasting impact we create with them, and for them.

Shiou Hee: Being an architect enriches your life in unexpected ways. As architects, we are exposed to learning different facets of life. You learn where your building materials come from. You learn how cities work. You have an innate ability to see and experience the world through a very different lens. It is a very special profession that exposes us to many diverse disciplines, adding to our life experiences in immeasurable ways.

About the ‘20 Under 45’ programme
First launched in 2004, the ‘20 Under 45’ programme by Urban Redevelopment Authority recognises young emerging Singapore-registered architects for their design excellence, ideas and leadership and the positive impact of their works on the built environment and communities. Across its three previous editions in 2004, 2010 and 2017, the programme has spotlighted 60 architects, many of whom have gone on to deliver impactful works locally and internationally, strengthening Singapore’s architectural standing.

The '20 Under 45': Fourth Edition exhibition is at the URA Centre from 23 January to 31 March 2026, with the accompanying publication for sale at all major bookstores soon. Join the public talks on the architects’ journeys, works and creative solutions in addressing larger urban challenges for the future.