Mixing aesthetics with functionality, CAN Design focuses on transforming urban environments, positively contributing to the community and a sustainable future. Managing Director, Stephen Chow, shares the vision of its creative minds in the evolving property landscape.
AN ARCHITECTURAL TRIFECTA
The multifaceted metropolis of Hong Kong boasts a stunning skyline that reflects its vibrant and bustling urban atmosphere, whilst also showcasing a rich heritage and culture that is evident in the architecture throughout the city.
The design of these buildings has inspired creatives for generations, leading to the formation of CAN Design (CAN) in 2020 by a group of like-minded talents.
“Initially, CAN stood for culture, art, and nature – key elements that are integral to our DNA. The company’s journey began with a vision to create something extraordinary by weaving these three elements into the fabric of our designs,” introduces Stephen Chow, Managing Director.
As a multidisciplinary company, CAN offers a comprehensive range of services, including architecture, interiors, signage, and master planning, continually adopting a holistic approach.
Now with a team of over 60 professional creatives, CAN frequently pushes the boundaries of design innovation and excellence.
“Many of our team members have worked together for a significant amount of time, having built solid bonds during their stints at renowned international design companies. This continuity and shared history allows us to operate seamlessly and bring a wealth of knowledge to each project,” Chow explains.
INTERTWINED ELEMENTS
Culture, art, and nature are fundamental to CAN’s values, and the company exemplifies this by transforming urban environments to promote community engagement and enhance lives through innovative public spaces and iconic buildings.
The company believes in the transformative power of design to improve spaces, communities, and cities, working on projects of varying scales, from mixed-use developments and offices to retail malls and rooftop renovations.
Each project is crafted to elevate the human experience and inspire a sense of connection within the community.
“A prime example is Foodie Sky, a brand-new rooftop dining and garden space at Hefei MixC that CAN reimagined as a vibrant urban oasis where visitors can relax, socialise, and enjoy the ambience,” Chow explains.
This renovation revitalised an underutilised area and introduced new social and leisure elements, drawing people together and promoting a sustainable community-focused lifestyle.
“We created a trendy micro-vacation destination, redefining social dining with a fresh, natural aesthetic.”
CAN’s work on the Hefei MixC Foodie Sky project demonstrates considerate design ideas that enrich urban life by creating a tranquil oasis above the city.
“Initially, CAN stood for culture, art, and nature – key elements that are integral to our DNA. The company’s journey began with a vision to create something extraordinary by weaving these three elements into the fabric of our designs”
Stephen Chow, Managing Director, CAN Design
AN ICONIC AND IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE
CAN possesses several distinctive attributes that set it apart from its competitors and enabled it to secure an interior design contract on the BILIBILI New Generation Campus Project.
BILIBILI is an iconic brand and a leading video community for young generations in China, with the project located in the new central business district (CBD) area of Shanghai.
During a BILIBILI competition, the company’s architecture and interior teams collaborated closely, sharing insights to deliver a cohesive and seamless design for the digital entertainment and culture centre.
“Our deep understanding of BILIBILI’s identity, rooted in digital media, animation, and gaming allowed us to capture the company’s dynamic culture and youthful energy in the design concept. This project is a mixed-use site with four plots, and we collaborated closely with the client to co-create a unique character for each area,” reveals Chow.
The four plots – retail, office, cultural, and community – are connected through circulation networks, sharing a common BILIBILI-inspired design language.
Guided by a profound knowledge of the target audience’s preferences and interests CAN creates spaces that genuinely resonate with clients.
“Rather than simply designing themed spaces, we crafted an immersive experience for each plot, integrating unique and unexpected elements that break with convention.
“We paid close attention to circulation, cultural nuances, and even heritage details, ensuring that every aspect of the design not only aligns with BILIBILI’s vibrant identity but also offers an engaging and meaningful experience for its users,” he prides.
“We are honoured to work with like-minded clients who support us and work closely with us to develop spaces that enhance quality of life and cultivate sustainable practices”
Stephen Chow, Managing Director, CAN Design
SUSTAINABLE SPACES
By adopting a forward-thinking, holistic approach, CAN is able to transform clients’ visions into sustainable designs that align with its overall philosophy.
“For us, sustainable design goes beyond environmental responsibility; it’s about creating spaces that support both people and the planet. We are honoured to work with like-minded clients who support us and work closely with us to develop spaces that enhance quality of life and cultivate sustainable practices,” informs Chow.
Sustainability is woven into every phase of the company’s projects, from material selection and planning to thoughtful renovation strategies.
“We are proud that several of our projects, including WF CENTRAL in Beijing, the West Bund Financial Centre in Shanghai, ONE CENTRAL MACAU, Hongcheng Zibo Mega City, and the Bay Hub in Hong Kong, just to name a few, have been recognised with the LEED certification.”
These projects therefore reflect the design philosophy to uplift communities and contribute to a sustainable future.
As Hong Kong’s real estate landscape shifts towards sustainable, high-density development, CAN envisions a future where spaces are optimised for limited urban environments and enhance the quality of life for residents and visitors.
“To date, we have designed three offices in Hong Kong, and we currently have one retail and one hospitality project on the drawing board. These focus on sustainable solutions that make the most of limited space and are both functional and inspiring,” observes Chow.
By crafting spaces that balance innovation with sustainability, CAN is helping to shape a more resilient and vibrant future for Hong Kong.
COLLABORATION IS KEY
Working in an inclusive and transparent environment without rigid hierarchies offers numerous benefits, such as encouraging open communication and collaborative thinking.
“Every team member is valued, and we are strong advocates for exchanging knowledge, ideas, and insights regarding the latest industry trends,” Chow expresses earnestly.
This collegiate working environment plays a crucial role in shaping the future of architecture and city skylines, whilst also facilitating a sense of community in otherwise large, impersonal urban centres.
“Our culture is rooted in teamwork and passion. We are making significant progress and continuing to build a robust, diverse portfolio; our shared vision is to create extraordinary design solutions for a liveable future,” he adds emphatically.
Improving lives in dense metropolis areas through thoughtful design is something that CAN is committed to, and the company is eager to apply its expertise to this mission.
“I believe that our studio culture, combined with our collective passion and creative thinking, allows us to stay ahead in an evolving design landscape.”
An exciting year lies ahead for CAN, as several projects are slated for completion across Hong Kong, Macau, China, and India.
“We are thrilled to see our vision transform into reality, with our expanding portfolio encompassing retail, office spaces, aviation, renovation, and more. The coming year marks a transformative chapter for us as we celebrate our fifth anniversary, continuing to push creative boundaries and deliver impactful design solutions,” Chow concludes.
