To nurture the present, one must understand the past. To inspire the future, one must know how to cultivate the present generation. To preserve the past, one must recognise what it takes to inspire the future. Among the few good men who have grasped this and are carrying it forward is DP Architects’ senior director, Mr Chan Sui Him.
Passionate about his professional craft in architecture and a firm believer in education, Mr Chan devotes his time to two pursuits: creating architecture of excellence that uplifts the human spirit and mentorship. Some of his architectural works over the last 50 years include the experimental Orchard Central, the people-centric Bugis Junction, the meticulously designed The Fullerton Bay Hotel as well as the conservation of Clifford Pier, the former Customs House and nostalgic St. Andrew’s Village. Recognising his role in shaping the development of design and honouring him as a pioneer architect in Singapore, Mr Chan was presented with the 2015 Singapore Design Golden Jubilee by the Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA) in conjunction with the nation’s own 50th birthday celebration.
This August, at the National Day Awards, Mr Chan was recognised for advancing education and nurturing young talents in his role as the Former Chairman of Anglican High School Management Board. The Public Service Star is award to any person who has rendered valuable public service to the people of Singapore or who has distinguished themselves in the field of arts and letters, sports, the sciences, business, the professions and the labour movement. It is the second award its kind Mr Chan received since being presented with the 2006 Public Service Medal for his years of contribution as the President of the Board of Architects.
Today, Mr Chan continues to be a role model for the future generation of architects. Not only is the senior director actively sharing his experiences and knowledge within DPA, providing design direction and guidance in recent projects such as Downtown East, Singapore Chinese Cultural Centre and Our Tampines Hub; he is bringing his expertise and experience in conservation projects to the newly established Heritage and Identity Partnership (HIP) as its first Chairman. HIP will take on an expanded role from the Conservation Advisory Panel, which ended its last tenure in May, to provide advice to the Urban Redevelopment Authority (URA) on ways to protect and conserve buildings. It will also contribute ideas to sustain the built heritage and memories of places as Singapore continues to develop.
Delve into Mr Chan’s inspiring history here.
