Architecture is Daily Life

Architecture is an experience, both visually and physically. It is a functional piece of art that we can’t live without. It brings balance and harmony to our daily life. At YWA, we strive to create a place to relax, rewind and rejuvenate, to make an oasis away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life. We bridge the gap between what is natural and what is man-made, so that no matter how many hours are spent indoors, the space we linger in will always feel welcoming, healthy and motivational. In order to do so, we conscientiously choose to respect our land and environment, employing carefully sourced materials that are both intentional and eco-conscious. Our ultimate goal is to give respect to both the user and natural resources in a beautiful manner wherever possible.

Meet the Architect : Mission Statement

Cosmopolitan   Thoughtful   Insightful   Creative   Eco-Conscious

In everyone there exists a beautiful dream. It can spark courage in the face of unknowns and reveal worlds never imagined.  Yin left the security of family and friends in Hong Kong with trepidation, exhilaration, two pieces of luggage and a mission. She would study progressive Art and Architecture in America, eight thousand miles away. There she graduated from New York’s Pratt Institute with a grateful heart, full of enthusiasm and a desire to share her learning with the world. Over the next two decades of intensive training in classical Residential Architecture built the foundation to Yin’s unique and sensitive design approach:  a Modern design that doesn’t lack soul and warmth, is detail oriented while streamlined and cost effective. The results are user driven and always tailored to individual client needs and expectations. 

At YWA we acknowledge that the realm of design and architecture has room for conscientious decisions without compromising creativity and functionality. A concept that is so simple yet neglected in our practice is the idea of working with nature instead of against it. We strive to create a result that showcases the best of both worlds for our clients by having our emphasis on Design that goes beyond trends, and allows for flexibility to change, and for growth to take place. With climate emergencies, my responsibility as architect is beyond designing a building that merely looks good. It ultimately needs to have the ability to transition into a self-sufficient and resilient home that can be self-sustained while off the grid or in the extreme case when disaster strikes. 

At YWA, we are listeners as much as visionaries, we believe good design can transform lives, create memories and experiences.  In doing so, we play close attention to every aspect of our design and emphasize the importance of material choice during the design process. But most importantly we understand we are part of a larger system where we play a vital role to protect and safeguard our own health as well as nature's well-being. 

Author: Yin Wai Au
Editor: Helen Karhan