Desmond Kok Eng Tiong (Ar)

1975 - 1980 SJK (C) Pei Min, Padang Sera; 1981 - 1984 SMK Pulau Nyior, Jitra; 1985 - 1986 SMK Keat Hwa, Alor Setar; 1987 - 1988 Grade 13 Canadian Pre-U programme, Taylor's College Petaling Jaya; 1989 - 1994 Bachelor of Architecture, University of New South Wales (UNSW), Sydney

Began his architectural journey in 1994 with a one-year internship at AWP Singapore, founded by the distinguished Singaporean architect Alfred Wong; Continued with the firm as a young architect for six years, and in 2000, he earned his qualification as a registered architect (Ar.). In 2000, he joined Low Keng Huat (Singapore) Limited, a prominent building construction company, as a Resident Architect, where he supervised and managed key construction projects on-site, further grounding his technical and execution expertise. From 2002 to 2004, Desmond took on the role of Singapore Local Director at ACLA Pte Ltd, a leading regional landscape consultancy, where he broadened his experience in landscape integration within urban developments. In 2004, Desmond co-founded MA Architects LLP, where he practised for nearly a decade. During this time, he travelled extensively across Asia and Southeast Asia, gaining in-depth exposure to regional architecture, culture, and diverse design approaches. These international experiences helped shape his unique architectural vision and broaden his design sensibilities. In 2013, Desmond founded DI+ Architects Pte Ltd, where he currently serves as Principal Architect. DI+ offers comprehensive architectural consultancy services with a strong foundation in the 3D pillars—Design, Development, and Digital Capability. The firm specialises in high-end residential, hospitality, mix-use development and urban planning projects across the region, delivering integrated solutions that add total design value to every project. As part of his vision for a holistic and future-ready built environment, Desmond established the Tadi+ Group—a multidisciplinary platform uniting CDI+, MDI+, HDI+, FDI+, and DI+ Architects. Tadi+ provides a one-stop solution in Design, Development, and Digital Integration for the built environment. With a diverse professional team and regional presence, including offices in Singapore and Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam, the group serves clients across Southeast Asia and beyond Asia. Looking forward, Desmond is committed to advancing sustainable and inclusive design with a nature-based and ESG-focussed approach. Under his leadership, DI+ Architects and the Tadi+ Group aim to create meaningful, livable and forward-thinking architectural environments. By continuously innovating in Design, strengthening Development capabilities, and integrating cutting-edge Digital tools and technologies, Desmond envisions a built environment that is not only aesthetically beautiful but also socially responsible and future-resilient

Desmond has been frequently invited to deliver talks at various real estate agencies, where he shares his expertise on architecture, development trends, and sustainable design. His professional insights have also been recognised by the media, leading to a collaborative interview with CNA, a major news channel, as well as other selected project interviews where he discussed his architectural philosophy and contributions to the built environment

Deeply committed to social impact and community development. He volunteers with Social Innovation Park (SIP), supporting initiatives that foster inclusive innovation, entrepreneurship for good, and sustainable community solutions. In addition, he actively participates in grassroots community service, contributing to local civic engagement and public well-being. Desmond also serves as a volunteer with the Isha Yoga Center, where he helps facilitate a variety of social outreach programmes across Singapore and the region, aligning with his belief in conscious living, holistic growth, and service to humanity

Member of Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA); Member of Board of Architects (BOA); Member of Singapore Business Federation (SBF); Founding President of BNI—Future; Co-Founder and BOD of Social Innovation Park (SIP)

Desmond’s commitment to design excellence has been recognised both academically and professionally. While studying at the University of New South Wales (UNSW) in Sydney, he received the Connell Wagner Award for Excellence in Architectural Structural, given to the top student in design-structural integration. Professionally, he earned private residential design awards in Singapore in 2007 and 2008, showcasing his expertise in creating refined, high-quality living spaces. His international recognition includes winning a design competition in central Vietnam, highlighting his ability to deliver culturally attuned and visionary architecture

English, Malay, Mandarin, Hokkien, Cantonese

Desmond has a deep appreciation for travelling across countries in the region, whether for business or personal exploration, as it allows him to experience diverse cultures and gain fresh perspectives. In his downtime, he finds inspiration in reading and painting—creative outlets that help him relax and recharge

Over the years as a practising architect, Desmond has navigated both successes and setbacks. However, one pivotal moment stands out in 2019, marking a transformative turning point in his journey. He dedicated seven days to a complete silent retreat, an experience that allowed him to deeply connect with nature and gain profound clarity about his life’s purpose. During this time, Desmond reflected on the essence of human existence, faced personal challenges, and discovered new ways to cope with and manage life’s complexities. This moment of stillness became his personal magic moment, reshaping his approach to both his professional and personal life

For Desmond, success is not defined by the size of a project but by the ability to accomplish goals and deliver results, regardless of scale. His guiding principle is clear: "Do it right, make it happen." He lives by the 5C’s—Care, Clarify, Competency, Consistency, and Compassion—which form the foundation of his approach to both his work and personal life. Desmond’s heartfelt message to aspiring architects is to never stop seeking experience. He encourages them to travel across the region, immerse themselves in different cultures, and embrace new perspectives. By doing so, they not only enrich their understanding of architecture but also develop a deeper connection with nature, ultimately enhancing their ability to design meaningful, impactful spaces. Above all, Desmond believes in the importance of persistence—never give up, always stay open to opportunities, and enjoy the journey of life to its fullest.

www.diplus.asia, www.linkedin.com/DI+Architects

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.

Information available only in printed publication available in libraries.