Finding your voice: Shaping meaningful design through research

Tiah Nan Chyuan and Lee Hui Lian of FARM Architects reflect on how architecture is a lifelong journey in finding your own voice. Both are recognised in the third and fourth editions of the ‘20 Under 45’ programme, celebrating exceptional Singapore architects.

What is the workplace culture like in FARM that supports your diverse portfolios?

Nan Chyuan: We don't have a specific way of working as we have four partners with different ideas and approaches. We let things flow more organically and naturally, allowing each of us to discover and find our own voice and identity, whilst tapping on one another for additional ideas and perspectives.

Hui Lian: What's interesting is the variety of projects that we can work on, from architecture to exhibitions and interiors. Whether you are working on the shorter-term interior and exhibition work or the longer-term architectural projects, it keeps us constantly engaged.

Wall House. Image: FARM Architects.

You have set up a research and experience design arm that delves deeper into understanding people’s needs and more complex challenges shaping design. Why is this important?

Nan Chyuan: If you want the young and old to interact or create opportunities for people to learn and grow, you need to do more than just provide a physical space.

This research arm allows us to delve deeper into understanding people's needs and other requirements that would influence how people use and access spaces. It is a platform for us to enrich our perspectives and use meaningful research insights to create better designs.

What is one example where research influenced the design of a space?

Nan Chyuan: We have worked on an integrated wellness centre for youths, that houses different mental health service providers. Research and engagement sessions were insightful in helping us design environments, spaces and circulation that are more sensitive and responsive to supporting different youths' interests and needs.

Instead of making assumptions, it helped to clarify our understanding and showed that design can do more than just provide a physical space. It can also help to accentuate people's experience and enhance their overall wellbeing.

88 Armenian Street. Image: FARM Architects.

Why should one be an architect today?

Hui Lian: Being an architect sharpens your eye, teaching you to truly see the world around you in a different light. This practice of observing, interpreting, and applying what you've learnt transcends architecture – it's a skill that enriches any field you pursue. What makes architectural work fascinating is its variety. 

What is most rewarding is the human dimension. You become a translator between worlds, speaking the language of contractors, lawyers, and bricklayers, bridging different expertise and ways of thinking. The entire ecosystem becomes your canvas and understanding how all these pieces fit together – that's where the real craft lies.

Nan Chyuan: The most compelling architects rarely confine themselves to designing buildings alone. They're often musicians, art collectors, philosophers – people who draw from the full spectrum of the human experience. 

To design spaces where life unfolds, you must first immerse yourself in life itself: engage with your city, understand what brings people joy and sorrow, connect with voices different from your own. The profession offers you the rare privilege of shaping not just buildings, but your own identity.

Tian Nan Chyuan (left) and Lee Hui Lian (right). 

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.