2024 Winner

Sunny Yu


Title: Associate Director
Company: Benoy
Design Philosophy:

My design philosophy is rooted in human-centric principles, emphasizing the creation of spaces that enhance the well-being of individuals and communities. With experience ranging from youth centers to large-scale shopping malls, I prioritize understanding how different people interact with various spaces.

I genuinely enjoy collaborating with diverse experts and exploring how materials can be articulated in functional yet elegant ways. For instance, I worked with local crafters in Dongguan to create unique bamboo shelves, and my collaboration with Japanese metal fabricators resulted in bespoke bollards for the Fashion Walk pedestrian walkway. I am passionate about engaging with various stakeholders, as this collaboration elevates my designs to the next level.

My vision for improvement centers on wellness. Having recently attained my Well AP qualification, I have taken the lead in integrating wellness concepts at our Hong Kong studio, actively applying various wellness strategies into real actions. This focus extends my human-centric design philosophy and makes wellness a fundamental element of my design approach.

I actively contribute to the design industry and society. Over the years, I have mentored interns, nurturing the next generation of designers who are vital to our industry’s evolution. My recent work on retail malls focuses on creating public gathering spaces that foster community interaction. With over ten years as a member of the Civil Aid Service, I am committed to providing civil assistance to our community. This experience reinforces my desire to contribute through design, as both fields aim to create a better future for society.

My commitment to improving lives through design aligns with my values in community service. I believe that thoughtful design not only transforms spaces but also enriches lives and, as a 40 Under 40 Award winner, I am eager to continue this mission through my work.