Organic shapes resonate with me because they echo the fluidity and imperfection found in nature.
Nelson Chow, founder of NC Design + Architecture, is the go-to designer for high-end residences, renowned for his use of organic shapes and sculptural forms. This year was especially significant for him, with the Chapel House project in Hong Kong winning multiple awards and the KL Club earning world-wide recognition.
Congratulations on the Chapel Residence project! It seems to have garnered quite a bit of attention. Would you consider this one of your proudest projects in 2025?
The Chapel Residence has indeed received wonderful attention, and yes, I’d absolutely consider it one of my proudest projects.
It was a deeply personal collaboration with a devoted Christian family, where we transformed a 4,500 square foot space on Hong Kong Island into a serene sanctuary that blends faith, function, and organic forms without relying on overt religious symbols. The way the curves and natural light create a sense of peace and introspection makes it stand out for me.
How do you think this aesthetic enhances a user’s wellbeing?
Organic shapes resonate with me because they echo the fluidity and imperfection found in nature, which feels more human and approachable than rigid geometries. In designs like the Chapel Residence, these forms such as the curved arches, soft edges, and flowing lines create a sense of movement and harmony that invites relaxation. I believe this aesthetic enhances a user’s wellbeing by promoting a softer calmer mindset … nurturing the soul.
Since you’ve used 3D printing quite a bit for its sculptural appeal, what does the advent of AI mean to you in your design process?
I’ve incorporated 3D printing extensively for its ability to realise complex, sculptural elements, that would be challenging with traditional methods – like the bespoke curves in Chapel Residence. As for AI, it doesn’t replace the human touch, but it does the basic things which allows us to have more time on creativity, allowing us to explore more iterations quickly and push boundaries in sustainable, user-centred designs. We don’t use AI for these custom pieces, but craft the 3D model shape to exactly how we want it to be.
Are there any other projects from last year you’d like to share with our readers?
Absolutely, another highlight was the Mountain Residence, a multi-generational family home in Kowloon’s Mount Beacon, and KI Club, a colourful culinary club, which won the latest Restaurant & Bar Design Award.
Anything exciting in the pipeline?
We’re working on several exciting ventures, including the new Mandarin Oriental Hotel in Hangzhou, where we are developing the lobby, the restaurants, the guestrooms and the presidential suites, and we won a competition to design a new shopping mall in Dubai. Stay tuned: I can’t share all the details yet, but we are set to push the envelope on wellbeing-focused designs.
