Lekker Architects
Lekker comprises a team of designers, architects, and social scientists dedicated to unraveling the profound impact of built environments on human emotions and experiences. Inspired by Winston Churchill’s assertion that ‘we make our buildings, and then they make us,’ Lekker delves into the intricate relationship between spaces and individuals. They are captivated by how architecture and design can captivate us, shape our memories, and set the stage for communal interactions.
Their projects are characterized by grand aspirations: constructing structures that foster inclusivity, crafting neighborhoods that promote social engagement and pedestrian activity, and curating retail spaces that transport visitors into realms of imagination and transformation. Through extensive qualitative and quantitative research spanning several years, Lekker endeavors to unearth valuable insights into how the built environment impacts wellness, behavior, and overall experience.
Their research efforts cater to both public and private clients, aiming to compile a wealth of distinctive data on the influence of built spaces. This information serves as the cornerstone for translating clients’ ambitions into tangible architectural designs. Lekker remains committed to producing measurable outcomes that not only inform their practice but also contribute to the ongoing evolution of architectural and design discourse.
Lekker Architects, spearheaded by Ong Ker-Shing and Joshua Comaroff, stands as a testament to the collaborative spirit of two talented individuals in the field of architecture. Ker-Shing, a licensed architect in Singapore, assumes the role of Director within the firm, while Joshua, possessing a strong architectural background, serves as the Design Consultant. Their journey traces back to the roots of Lekker Design, their erstwhile design consultancy, which encompassed a diverse spectrum of creative endeavors such as interior design, furniture design, retail scenography, and landscape architecture. It was from this fertile ground that Lekker Architects emerged in 2014, marking a significant milestone in their professional trajectory. The portfolio showcased on their website reflects the combined efforts of Ker-Shing and Joshua, whether executed under the banner of Lekker Architects, Lekker Design, or as independent projects under Ong Ker-Shing as a Qualified Person (QP). Through their collective expertise and unwavering commitment to innovation, Lekker Architects continues to carve a distinct niche within the architectural landscape, offering bespoke solutions that seamlessly blend functionality with aesthetic brilliance.
Lekker Architects Awards and Credentials
Lekker Architects is at the forefront of a transformative movement towards inclusive design, where compassion, meticulous research, and forward-thinking design converge seamlessly. Under the visionary leadership of Ar. Ong Ker-Shing and Dr. Joshua Comaroff, the studio has redefined the boundaries of design’s social impact in Singapore. Their pioneering work in inclusive design has not only garnered widespread recognition but has also positioned them as influential figures within the architectural community.
Through their participation in various group exhibitions organized by the DesignSingapore Council over the years, Ker-Shing and Comaroff have not only showcased their architectural prowess but have also assumed a curatorial role, preparing to unveil a groundbreaking vision of inclusivity at Singapore Design Week 2023.
While buildings traditionally serve as the hallmark of architectural achievement, Lekker Architects transcends conventional boundaries by exploring alternative avenues of design expression. From conceptualizing a mobile kopitiam to curating exhibitions and publishing books, Ker-Shing and Comaroff demonstrate the versatility of their design philosophy. Their recent accolade, the prestigious Presidents Design Award (PDA), acknowledges their multifaceted approach to design innovation.
The award-winning book “Hack Care: Tips and Tricks for a Dementia-friendly Home” stands as a testament to Lekker Architects’ commitment to social impact. Developed in collaboration with the Lien Foundation and industrial design studio Lanzavecchia + Wai, this comprehensive guide addresses the dearth of resources available for dementia care outside medical settings. By offering practical strategies for adapting residential environments to better accommodate individuals with dementia and their caregivers, the book advocates for a more inclusive approach to design.
The international acclaim received by “Hack Care” underscores its profound message of destigmatizing dementia and promoting empathy-driven design solutions. For Ker-Shing, who serves as the studio’s Director and also holds a position as Associate Professor at the National University of Singapore, and her husband Comaroff, Co-founder of Lekker Architects and Assistant Professor of Social Sciences at Yale-NUS College, the project is deeply personal. Drawing from their own experiences navigating dementia within their family, they embarked on a journey of discovery, culminating in the creation of a resource that empowers others facing similar challenges.
In essence, Lekker Architects exemplifies the transformative power of design to effect positive social change, paving the way for a more inclusive and empathetic built environment.
Services Offered
Lekker Architects offers a comprehensive range of services catering to diverse project types, ensuring innovative solutions tailored to the unique needs of each client. Specializing in various sectors, the studio excels in delivering exceptional design outcomes across the following project categories:
Education: Lekker Architects brings visionary design concepts to educational spaces, creating environments that inspire learning and collaboration. From schools to universities, the studio is committed to enhancing the educational experience through thoughtful architecture.
Public and the Arts: With a keen understanding of the importance of public spaces and cultural institutions, Lekker Architects crafts dynamic designs that foster community engagement and artistic expression. Whether designing museums, galleries, or civic buildings, the studio prioritizes the integration of art and architecture to enrich the public realm.
Residential: Lekker Architects redefines modern living with innovative residential designs that prioritize comfort, functionality, and sustainability. From single-family homes to multi-unit developments, the studio creates spaces that reflect the unique lifestyles and preferences of its clients while maximizing aesthetic appeal and livability.
Commercial: Recognizing the impact of architecture on business success, Lekker Architects delivers cutting-edge commercial designs that elevate brands and enhance the customer experience. From office buildings to retail spaces, the studio combines creativity with practicality to optimize functionality and productivity.
Competitions and Projects: Lekker Architects thrives on creative challenges and actively participates in design competitions and projects that push the boundaries of architectural innovation. Whether designing temporary installations or conceptualizing large-scale developments, the studio’s commitment to excellence shines through in every endeavor.
Landscape: Complementing its architectural expertise, Lekker Architects offers comprehensive landscape design services aimed at creating harmonious outdoor environments that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding built environment. From urban plazas to private gardens, the studio’s landscape designs prioritize sustainability, aesthetics, and functionality.
With a diverse portfolio and a passion for pushing the boundaries of design, Lekker Architects stands as a trusted partner for clients seeking visionary architectural solutions across a wide spectrum of project types.
Contact Information
Lekker Architects can be reached at their office located at 82 Tiong Poh Road #01-25, Singapore 160082. For inquiries, you can contact them via email at [email protected] or by phone at +65 6223 4481. Feel free to reach out to Lekker Architects for any architectural needs or queries you may have.