ALTON P CHOW AIA
Chief Executive Officer – Centropy
Location: Hong Kong | Los Angeles
Specialization: Commercial Markets
Discipline: Management
Chief Executive Officer – Centropy
Location: Hong Kong | Los Angeles
Specialization: Commercial Markets
Discipline: Management
Chief Executive Officer – Centropy
Location: Hong Kong | Los Angeles
Specialization: Commercial Markets
Discipline: Management
Alton has over 25 years of experience in both architecture and engineering, focusing on creating operational platforms that drive industry advancement and practice success. He has held senior management positions at prominent global firms including AECOM, Gensler, Aurecon, Woods Bagot, and Wilson Associates, where he developed expertise in adaptability and best practices across various typologies and disciplines.
Alton’s contributions extend to his roles as President of AIA Shanghai and board member for institutions such as the School of Architecture at Syracuse University, AIA International, Urban Land Institute China (ULI), and the US-China Business Council. He is also an active member of the Young Presidents Organization (YPO). Known for his commitment to honesty, transparency, and fostering environments where ideas and growth thrive, Alton prioritizes building trust with clients through clear communication and timely delivery. Throughout his career, he has collaborated with exceptionally talented professionals and is enthusiastic about the opportunity to unite these individuals at Centropy, aiming to drive innovation and shape the future of the industry.
For more information about Alton, please visit: LinkedIn.com
Steven Townsend AICP
Founder | CEO
Studio Urban Design
Location: Ho Chi Minh
Specialization: Masterplan
Founder | CEO
Studio Urban Design
Location: Ho Chi Minh
Specialization: Masterplan
Founding Principal – Studio Urban Design
Location: Ho Chi Minh
Specialization: Cities | Transportation | Site
Discipline: Masterplan
Steven and I have a long and storied history together. I first met him during my time at Gensler when I was tasked with building a Master Planning team within my studio. While we saw some initial success, it became clear we needed someone with deeper expertise. That’s when Steven came on board and transformed our entire practice, teaching me invaluable lessons about focusing on the human experience while working on a grand scale. Our paths crossed again at AECOM, where I was managing the China practice and assisting the Asia CEO with overall design strategies for the region, while Steven played a crucial role as head of Planning for South East Asia. When I conceived the idea for Centropy, I immediately knew that Steven and Studio Urban Design would be a perfect fit, as their expertise in Master Planning and Urban Design will enable us to shape the evolution of cities before buildings even come into play.
Over the last 30 years, Steven has been a leader in urban design developing a wide variety of projects in urban design and master planning. Steven is focused on sustainable development practices and provides an interdisciplinary approach to the master planning and urban design process. Steven continues his role, directing teams of diversified talents to incorporate new thought leadership processes in urban design expertise into conceptual architectural design, land planning, transportation planning, development programming, and landscape concept design. His belief and studies in Interdisciplinary Design have been the key to providing multinational clients with completed and often award-winning projects of higher quality – setting benchmarks in sustainability at all levels, for the provisions needed to enhance the quality of life for future generations.
Studio Urban Design takes a human-centered approach, designing spaces from the inside out to prioritize the needs and behaviors of users. Focusing on real-life interactions rather than aesthetics, they align creativity with how people naturally navigate spaces. Their commitment to sustainability extends beyond technology, fostering adaptable frameworks that support evolving societies, economic opportunities, and healthy ecosystems. Through open workshops, tangible modeling, and transparent communication, they enhance creativity and minimize redundancy by bringing specialists and clients together early in the design process. With expertise ranging from small infill developments in heritage villages to large-scale master planning in sensitive regions, Studio Urban Design integrates local cultures with international knowledge, applying their diverse experiences to successful projects across Southeast Asia, China, India, the Middle East, Europe, and the Americas.
For more information about Steven and Studio Urban Design, please visit: LinkedIn.com
DAVID MALOTT
Chief Executive Officer – AI PlanetWorks
Location: New York
Specialization: High Rise Mixed Use
Discipline: Architecture
Founder | CEO
AI PlanetWorks
Location: New York City
Specialization: Supertall | High Rise Towers – Architecture
Founder | CEO
AI PlanetWorks
Location: New York City
Specialization: Supertall | High Rise Towers – Architecture
David and I first met in China in 2007, where we were both invited to participate in a panel discussion. At that time, David had just completed the SWFC Tower with KPF, which was then the tallest building in China. We quickly developed a strong connection, and over the years, I have deeply admired his talent as a designer and his intellect. In 2016, when I was the Managing Director of AECOM, an opportunity arose for us to work together. David was considering leaving and I saw this as a chance to bring him on board to lead Architecture for the Asia Pacific region. We were enthusiastic about the prospect, and even went as far as signing a deal. David was prepared to move to Shanghai to work with me. However, in the end, he decided to pursue his own path and founded AI PlanetWorks. Now, at Centropy, I am excited to have the opportunity to collaborate and finally realize our shared vision.
David Malott is an award-winning designer and expert in tall building architecture. As the Founder and Chief Architect of PlanetWorks, he leads a global team in creating greener, more tech-enabled, and livable high-rise and mixed-use projects. PlanetWorks, with offices in New York, Barcelona, and Shanghai, is quickly gaining recognition for its innovative approach. Previously, David led the design of three of the world’s ten tallest towers, including the Shanghai World Financial Center and the Ping An Finance Center. As the youngest design partner at KPF and former Chairman of the Council on Tall Buildings and Urban Habitat (CTBUH), he has made significant contributions to the field. David is hands-on in every PlanetWorks project, bringing his innovative and tech-forward vision to each design. From his start at the MIT Media Lab to leading a team that won the NASA Centennial Challenge, he remains at the forefront of architectural innovation.
At PlanetWorks, we drive architectural innovation by blending cutting-edge technologies with human-centric design to enhance urban environments worldwide. Founded by David Malott, our award-winning boutique practice operates across New York, Barcelona, and Shanghai, with a mission to make architecture more engaging, approachable, and socially impactful. Our culturally diverse team infuses creativity and technical excellence into every project, believing that each design tells a unique story shaped by its site, client, and community. Committed to excellence, we craft ecosystems that thrive in urban settings, setting new benchmarks for architectural achievement. At PlanetWorks, we are pioneers shaping the future of spaces and skylines, creating buildings that inspire and unite communities.
For more information about AI PlanetWorks, please visit: AI-PlanetWorks.com
MAURO RESNITZKY
Founder | Managing Director – Girimun Architects
Location: Hong Kong
Specialization: Retail Mixed Use
Discipline: Architecture | Interiors
Founder | Managing Director
Girimun Architects
Location: Hong Kong
Specialization: Mixed Use Retail | Hospitality - Architecture | Planning | Interiors
Founder | Managing Director
Girimun Architects
Location: Hong Kong
Specialization: Mixed Use Retail | Hospitality - Architecture | Planning | Interiors
My introduction to Mauro was serendipitous. We first bonded over our shared love for beach tennis in Hong Kong. As we got to know each other, I learned that Mauro was not only a skilled player but also a highly talented architect. Interestingly, he was my competitor during my time at Gensler, where his team at Benoy consistently outshone us. Our paths nearly crossed again at Woods Bagot, where Mauro was the lead Design Director in Hong Kong, just missing each other by a month. I later managed the Shanghai practice, pitching and selling many of the works he had designed. It’s remarkable how I had unknowingly admired his work for years and meeting him just before launching Centropy feels like destiny. Adding Mauro’s extensive experience in Retail Centers to our team will greatly enhance our total offering in architecture design, expanding the scope and quality of our services as a whole.
Passionate about architecture, cities, nature, and photography, Mauro is a dedicated globe-trotter with a career spanning a dozen countries across three continents. He earned his Diploma in Architecture and Urbanism in 1994 from his hometown of Rio de Janeiro, Brazil, and completed his Master’s Degree at the Architectural Association School of Architecture in London in 1999. Since 2002, Mauro has lived and worked in Hong Kong, where he has held directorial roles in prestigious international firms before founding Girimun Architects in 2008. From Hong Kong, he has led projects throughout the Asia Pacific region, establishing offices in the Far East and opening markets in Southeast Asia and India. Mauro has been instrumental in pioneering successful commercial mixed-use designs in China and beyond, earning accolades such as the MIPIM Asia Awards, ICSC Asia-Pacific Shopping Centre Awards, Asia Pacific Property Awards, Hong Kong Quality Building Award, and Wan Awards. With a blend of creative design, commercial acumen, and a focus on sustainable solutions, Mauro is dedicated to harnessing design team collaboration to transform opportunities into innovative, impactful, and inspiring solutions for clients and communities.
For more information about Girimun, please visit: Girimun.com
Joey N Shimoda FAIA FIIDA ASID
Susan Chang AIA IIDA ASID
Founder | Partner – Shimoda Design Group
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Commercial Office
Discipline: Architecture | Interiors
Founder | Partner
Shimoda Design Group
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Office | Corporate Headquarters – Architecture | Interiors
Founder | Partner
Shimoda Design Group
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Office | Corporate Headquarters – Architecture | Interiors
Joey and Susan were among the first friends I made at the start of my career. Joey, especially, played a pivotal role at AECOM, serving as both my first boss and mentor. Under his guidance, I was introduced to the intricacies of the profession and learned invaluable lessons about architecture. One of the most impactful experiences during this time was working alongside Joey on the Rolex Building, where we navigated the complexities of taking a project through construction. His mentorship not only imparted technical skills but also taught me how to think on my feet and solve problems creatively to bring our designs to life. When Joey shared his decision to leave the company, I understood that his true calling lay in pursuing his own path. Together with Susan, they have since built an exceptional practice, making a significant mark on the landscape of Los Angeles architecture and is a great contribution to our team by offering an integral specialization of Commercial Office and Corporate Headquarters to the lexicon of abilities at Centropy.
Joey Shimoda is curious about anything beautifully designed. A lifetime of searching has created an exceptional architect, planner, and interior designer. Born in Alabama and educated in California, wanderlust has led him to live and work in Los Angeles, Florence and London. Joey’s Japanese design DNA is infused with his love of European design. His perspective on engineering, form, function, history and beauty creates an edgy yet refined design cocktail. He has helped companies that are more than 100 years old to find new energy without losing their identity just as he has helped small start-ups grow with smart and inspirational spaces. With curiosity and talent, he creates a mystic alchemy of unexpected solutions that are functional, brilliant and beautiful.
Susan Chang is a partner and founding member of Shimoda Design Group. A boutique studio specializing in bespoke design solutions for leading companies around the world. Born in Taiwan and educated at the University of Southern California, she brings a uniquely global perspective that allows her to fuse her Asian heritage with a progressive west coast vibe. She is an architect, interior designer, builder and a workplace strategist. Her experience has a global impact and her vision has created an award winning multi-disciplined design practice. The scale of her design insight ranges from the spoon to the City. Her philosophy of total design implements equality, efficiency, and beauty to enhance productivity, and brand impact.
Joey Shimoda and Susan Chang founded their Los Angeles studio on St. Valentine’s Day 2000, driven by an inclusive design philosophy inspired by people, context, and culture. From their live-work loft in the Artist District, they have become known for transformative work in architecture, interiors, landscape, and product design. With projects spanning major cities like Manhattan, San Francisco, and Los Angeles, they have collaborated with clients such as Bad Robot Productions, Steelcase, Rolex, Bloomberg, and Warner Music Group. As a minority-owned business (MBE), they are dedicated to mentoring future designers and presenting for organizations like AIA, IIDA, and ASID. Joey’s contributions have earned him Fellowships from the American Institute of Architects and the International Interior Design Association, and he was named ASID’s 2020 Designer of Distinction, highlighting his significant impact on the industry.
For more information about Joey, Susan, and Shimoda Design Group, please visit: ShimodaDesign.com
VICKY CHAN AIA
Founder- Avoid Obvious Architects
Location: Hong Kong | New York
Specialization: Public Works
Discipline: Architecture | Interiors
Founder | Managing Director
Avoid Obvious Architects
Location: Hong Kong
Specialization: Public Works | Community Engagement – Architecture | Interiors | Advisory
Founder | Managing Director
Avoid Obvious Architects
Location: Hong Kong
Specialization: Public Works | Community Engagement – Architecture | Interiors | Advisory
Vicky and I first met at the American Institute of Architects (AIA), where he was leading the Hong Kong Chapter while I was heading the China Chapter. Despite the geographical distance, we shared a common goal of reshaping an organization that had long been US-centric. Our collaboration was fruitful, and together we pioneered ways to bring an Asian perspective to the forefront. Over the years, I’ve closely followed Vicky’s journey and have always admired his commitment to designing and constructing projects with the common citizen in mind, steering away from the corporate sphere. His extensive experience in engaging with communities and his involvement in numerous NGOs have positioned him as a leader in understanding the genuine needs of cities. During my time at Aurecon, I had the privilege of inviting Vicky to collaborate with my team on several proposals. His unique approach, characterized by care and compassion, not only gave us a significant advantage but also enriched our projects with a human-centered focus. I believe that Vicky’s contribution to Centropy will bring a fresh perspective, serving as a true advantage to our team as we strive to make a meaningful difference in the world.
Vicky Chan founded Avoid Obvious Architects in 2012, with offices in New York and Hong Kong, and has since led the firm to win 60 design awards for its innovative approach to sustainable architecture. The firm is known for integrating farming, net-zero design, and circular economy strategies into its projects, pushing the boundaries of how buildings and cities can contribute to a more sustainable future. Beyond his architectural practice, Vicky is passionate about education and has founded several non-profit organizations dedicated to teaching sustainable design principles. On his farm, he has educated over 7,000 children, believing that equipping the next generation with creative and sustainable thinking is key to a brighter future.
Avoid Obvious Architects is dedicated to green and sustainable design, with a 20-year legacy of creating award-winning buildings and cities. Their collaborative approach uncovers innovative ways to live, work, and play, specializing in unique, sustainability-focused solutions that bring joy to clients and communities. The firm works closely with NGOs and government organizations, offering non-profit sustainable designs, and integrates art, health, context, buildability, and science into each project. Committed to education, their Architecture for Children initiative has taught sustainable design principles to over 7,000 students. Globally impactful, with lectures at the New Cities Summit in Seoul and work featured alongside the White House, they have partnered with 20 NGOs since 2019 to support community projects.
For more information about Vicky and Avoid Obvious Architects, please visit: AOArchitect.us
LIM CHENG KOOI (CK)
Founder | Managing Director
AR43 Architects PTE LTD
Location: Singapore
Specialization: Luxury Residential Architecture
Founder | Managing Director
AR43 Architects PTE LTD
Location: Singapore
Specialization: Luxury Residential Architecture
Founder | Principal Architect – AR43
Location: Singapore
Specialization: Luxury Residential
Discipline: Architecture
When Patrick from Silverfox joined Centropy, he quickly recognized the platform’s potential and introduced me to CK of AR43. After reviewing his impressive portfolio, I was eager to bring him and his team on board. CK’s exceptional design skills and talent for creating stunning residences offer Centropy a unique advantage that sets us apart from traditional corporate firms. With the growing shift towards flexible working and the booming residential market, partnering with AR43 positions us perfectly to meet this demand. I’m genuinely excited about the possibilities this collaboration brings and thrilled to welcome CK to Centropy.
After graduating from architectural school in 1988, CK began his career with renowned Singaporean architect William Lim at William Lim Associates, where he refined his skills on modernist projects, including the award-winning extension of the Central Market in Kuala Lumpur. Prior to founding his own practice, AR43, in 2006, CK co-founded and served as Director of an established Singaporean architectural firm for 12 years, gaining extensive experience and contributing to numerous award-winning projects recognized in top architectural journals. Dedicated to responsible design, CK has worked on socio-communal projects like the pro bono Karuna Home for the Disabled in Mysore, India, reflecting his sensitivity to user needs and site context. Beyond architecture, Lim is passionate about the arts, with his paintings featured in the Shell Discovery Exhibitions and a solo art exhibition in 2008 that raised funds for charitable causes. This integration of art and architecture defines his practice, as he continues to create spaces that are both aesthetically beautiful and functionally impactful.
AR43 Architects, established in 2006 by Lim Cheng Kooi (CK), is an award-winning firm known for its strong commitment to responsible design. Over its 18-year history, the firm has made a significant impact in the design and architectural fields, driven by a philosophy that emphasizes responsiveness to site context, client needs, and contemporary issues. CK, with over 35 years of design experience, has infused his expertise into the firm’s projects, leading to several prestigious international awards, including those from The Chicago Athenaeum & European Centre for Architecture, Iconic Design Awards, and Design for Asia Awards. The firm’s work, frequently featured in top architectural journals, reflects its dedication to pushing the boundaries of design. AR43’s approach focuses on harnessing the physical and emotional potential of architecture to create designs that seamlessly integrate site and program, turning client dreams into reality and achieving extraordinary results within ordinary budgets.
For more information about CK and AR43, please visit: AR43.com
PATRICK WARING
SUSAN HENG
Founder | Partner – Silverfox Studios
Location: Singapore | Dubai
Specialization: Hospitality | F&B
Discipline: Interiors
Founder | Partner
Silverfox Studios
Location: Singapore
Specialization: Hospitality | F&B - Interiors
Founder | Partner
Silverfox Studios
Location: Singapore
Specialization: Hospitality | F&B - Interiors
During the late 2000s at Wilson Associates, Patrick served as the Deputy MD of Asia, while Susan was a Design Director. Both were considered some of the top designers in the firm. While I served as the Managing Director of China, I quickly recognized their exceptional talent and made them my go-to team for all significant projects. Their expertise in hospitality design, a discipline that demands a blend of spatial architecture and fashion-forward style, was truly exceptional and is reflected in their numerous accolades. Having Patrick and Susan at Centropy presents a unique opportunity to introduce a design typology not commonly found in large practices, further enriching our team’s capabilities.
Susan worked at William Lim where she pursued a modernist design set of principles in keeping with the firm’s academic design ethos. She joined the Wilson Associates team in the late 1990’s as the lead Design Director responsible for Hospitality projects and was responsible for many of the design success that propelled the firms global recognition and growth. Susan and Patrick became founding partners of Silverfox studios in 2007.
Patrick started his career in the 1980’s in London working for acclaimed Architect Michael Aukett, whose multi-disciplinary practice gave a grounding in Architectural / Interior design with a specialty in Restaurant and hospitality. Moving to Singapore in the early 1990’s he joined a small team at Hospitality design firm Wilson Associates, quickly becoming the deputy Managing Director, and enabling fast and expansive growth, from 5 to over 150 staff members. In 2007 he became one of the founding partners of Silverfox studios alongside Susan.
Susan and Patrick, the founding partners of Silverfox Studios, established the firm in 2007 after extensive experience in senior roles at major international firms. With a focus on hospitality design, they have transformed Silverfox into a multi-award-winning practice with a diverse global portfolio. Their projects span prestigious regions including the Middle East, the United States, the UK, and Asia Pacific, with notable clients such as Mandarin Oriental, Hyatt, Hilton, Marriott, and the Abu Dhabi Investment Authority. Silverfox Studios is renowned for its ability to reflect the environment, project purpose, and brand values in its designs. Their approach emphasizes principles like volumetric interplay and layering, aiming to create environments that evoke strong emotional responses. By starting with an open mind and exploring a wide range of ideas, they craft experiences that are both visually striking and emotionally impactful.
For more information about Silverfox, please visit: SilverfoxStudios.design
SIMON PARK
Managing Director – SPARK Design Group
Location: Shanghai | Hong Kong | Singapore
Specialization: Commerical Office | Retail Stores
Discipline: Interiors
Founder | Managing Director
SPARK Design Group
Location: Shanghai
Specialization: Workplace | Retail - Interiors
Founder | Managing Director
SPARK Design Group
Location: Shanghai
Specialization: Workplace | Retail - Interiors
In 2015, during my tenure at AECOM, I was responsible for relocating our Shanghai office to a new location within the city. Despite my initial attempt to utilize our internal interiors team, they were unable to deliver the required results. This prompted me to seek an external solution, leading me to Simon, who was then the Managing Director of PDM (now owned by JLL). Simon successfully completed the relocation project, and since then, we have developed a strong friendship. Impressed by his capabilities, I attempted to recruit Simon to lead our design/build business, but he declined and instead founded Spark Design Group and has since been a dominant force in the corporate and retail interior market in Asia. With Simon now part of Centropy, I am excited about the opportunity to add another level of talent to bring our clients from exterior architecture to interior design.
Since moving from New Zealand in 2007, Simon has been based in Shanghai. He has delivered dozens of first-class design and build solutions for multi-national and discerning domestic clients in China and around the APAC region. His experience boasts hundreds of projects with a track record spanning eight countries and varying degrees of creativity and complexity. Based out of the SPARK HQ in Shanghai, he collaborates hands-on with clients and project managers, leading six design teams to generate creative concept designs and solutions for his clients and overseeing the documentation and site delivery. Simon’s expertise, coupled with his acute design philosophy, positions him at the forefront of the industry. His international awards and industry recognition are not just accolades, but a testament to his relentless pursuit of challenging boundaries and enhancing his reputation as a design and build professional, inspiring others in the industry.
SPARK Design Group excels in creating spaces that both impress and inspire, enhancing brands and corporate culture through thoughtfully designed workplace environments. We approach each project with a focus on aligning with our clients’ financial, well-being, and brand objectives, delivering designs and builds that meet high standards of quality. Our commitment to excellence is reflected in the strong, long-term relationships we build with our clients, earning their trust and loyalty through consistent performance. Between 2018 and 2023, SPARK Design Group completed over 200 projects across Greater China, supported by a dedicated team of over seventy professionals from diverse disciplines, including design, construction, project management, MEP engineering, LEED & Wellness consulting, and quantity surveying.
For more information about Simon and SPARK Design Group, please visit: SPARKDesignGroup.com.cn
JOHN GALLOWAY
Founder | Managing Director
40NORTH
Location: USA
Specialization: Mixed Use Retail | Hospitality – Architecture | Planning | Interiors
Founder | Managing Director
40NORTH
Location: USA
Specialization: Mixed Use Retail | Hospitality – Architecture | Planning | Interiors
Owner | Founder- 40NORTH
Location: Kansas City
Specialization: Hospitality
Discipline: Landscape
During my time at Wilson Associates, John Galloway’s name frequently came up as one of the foremost experts in landscape design. His reputation was well-established, and as my career advanced and I began entering the Middle East market, I quickly realized that John was the go-to choice for many high-profile projects in the region. His work was not only well-known but highly respected, making him a standout figure in the industry. Given his prominence, I was pleasantly surprised when the opportunity arose to meet John while I was looking to expand our planning and hospitality capabilities at Centropy. The timing couldn’t have been better, and with John and his team at 40NORTH joining us, Centropy now benefits immensely from their deep expertise in landscape architecture. This addition has significantly strengthened our offerings, enabling our Hospitality team to provide more comprehensive services and allowing our Planning teams to design more detailed, innovative parks and green spaces. John’s influence is already evident, and his contribution is elevating our projects to new levels of excellence.
John Galloway, the founder of 40NORTH, has been leading the company’s creative direction for 19 years, playing an integral role in every project from inception to completion. With nearly 30 years of experience in luxury resort hospitality design, he has collaborated with top talent to create some of the most coveted luxury experiences globally. Operating the business from a 30-acre working farm north of Kansas City, Missouri, John stays connected to his roots, reflecting the values of four generations of cattle ranchers from the high plains of western Kansas. Despite his global influence, he remains deeply tied to the land and frequently returns with his family to the windy wilderness of his youth, where he draws inspiration and maintains a strong connection to his heritage. This unique blend of worldly expertise and deep personal heritage defines his leadership and the work produced by 40NORTH.
40NORTH, a landscape architecture practice based in the Midwest U.S., has been creating some of the world’s most iconic luxury resorts and hotels since 2005 through global collaborations. Led by John Galloway, the team has extensive experience across various scales, from expansive hospitality projects and regional master planning to intricate site details. Their process is driven by curiosity, drawing, and engaging conversations, ensuring that every project reflects a unique signature or sense of place. Each project has its own history, beginning with a sketch or email and culminating in a celebratory moment that marks the achievement of dreams and ideas after extensive collaboration. With decades of expertise, 40NORTH excels in listening to clients, understanding their needs, and navigating the diverse rules, regulations, and cultures of different labor pools, drawing on insights gained from working with top hoteliers to successfully bring complex projects to fruition.
For more information about John and 40NORTH, please visit: 40NORTHDesign.com
Steven Song RA
Founder | CEO
AIBE
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Development Advisory
Founder | CEO
AIBE
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Development Advisory
Chief Executive Officer – AIBE Inc.
Location: Los Angeles | Dallas | Seoul
Specialization: Property Development
Discipline: Advisory
Steven and I connected through our mutual involvement in the Young Professional Organization (YPO), where our shared architectural background quickly brought us together. When he first introduced AIBE to me, I was captivated by its innovative use of AI to increase accuracy and transform the entire development advisory services market. I was eager to integrate their approach into my previous companies but faced significant hurdles due to their complex approval processes and rigid corporate structure. Now, at Centropy, we have the flexibility to fully utilize AIBE’s groundbreaking technology, adding a unique capability to our platform that sets us apart from our competitors. I’m genuinely excited about the possibilities this integration offers and am thrilled to finally collaborate with Steven and his team.
Steven Song is the founder and CEO of AIBE (AI for Built Environment), a platform revolutionizing the real estate industry through advanced AI-driven analysis. AIBE extracts intelligence from diverse sources to determine the optimal use of any site. Previously, Steven was the founding principal of SCAAA, an international design office in Los Angeles, and has held roles at firms like Skidmore, Owings & Merrill and Arquitectonica. He also collaborated with Pritzker Prize-winning architects Robert Venturi and Denise Scott Brown. As CEO of Axle Companies, a family office focused on real estate and social impact investments, Steven developed the SCAAA Process™, a proprietary real estate strategy tool that underpins AIBE’s AI. He holds degrees in architecture from Carnegie Mellon University and the University of Pennsylvania and serves on the boards of the Hammer Museum and SCI-Arc. He has been a member of the Young Presidents’ Organization (YPO) since 2013.
AIBE (AI for Built Environment) is a pioneering AI-driven platform founded by Steven Song, designed to transform the real estate industry by delivering comprehensive, actionable insights for determining the highest and best use of any site. By leveraging advanced AI, AIBE integrates qualitative data from sources like news, social media, and expert opinions with quantitative information on zoning, regulations, construction costs, and profitability. This holistic approach enables real estate professionals to navigate complex decisions with precision, offering in-depth analysis that goes beyond traditional methods. AIBE empowers strategic planning and operational efficiency by streamlining research processes, saving time, and improving accuracy through automated data aggregation and analysis, ultimately revolutionizing the way the real estate industry approaches site development and investment decisions.
For more information about Steven and AIBE, please visit: AIBE.io
OLAF MUELLER
Founder | CEO
AIBE
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Development Advisory
Founder | CEO
AIBE
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Development Advisory
Chief Executive Officer – mg-ES
Location: Ho Chi Minh | Bangkok | Hong Kong
Specialization: Branding & Marketing
Discipline: Advisory
Olaf and I were introduced by a mutual friend who, after learning about Centropy and our vision, knew we needed to meet. As is often the case when you connect with a good friend of a good friend, we quickly hit it off. Olaf’s company specializes in branding and marketing projects after completion, but he’s often expressed frustration about not being involved in the creative process from the start. Meanwhile, our designers frequently feel disconnected from the final stages when a project goes to market. Bringing Olaf and his team into Centropy has created a unique opportunity to bridge this gap. Now, our designers can influence how a project is positioned from the very beginning, seamlessly integrating branding and design—a feature that’s unique to Centropy. This collaboration not only sets us apart but also exemplifies how our platform is poised to revolutionize industry collaboration and workflow.
Born in 1980 in Germany, Olaf Mueller has spent most of his professional life in Asia, working in dynamic markets like Hong Kong, Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, and Thailand. With over two decades of experience, he is a seasoned project leader and client servicing director, known for his strategic insight and hands-on approach. After earning a Master of Science in Real Estate from Hong Kong University, Olaf began his career in the investment division of Jones Lang LaSalle, which laid the foundation for his success in business development and strategy across various industries. He has led key projects and managed prestigious accounts like Techcombank, Masterise Homes, Military Bank, SonKim Land, and Gaw Capital, showcasing his versatility and deep market understanding. Olaf’s work has earned him over 13 prestigious awards, including Agency of the Year Vietnam and Digital Agency of the Year Vietnam by Campaign Asia. His passion for real estate led him to establish mg-ES, a branding and marketing agency that combines strategic thinking with creative solutions, offering services like renderings and CGI animation.
mg-ES is a specialized marketing agency for the real estate industry, formed through the merger of two leading creative agencies – Mueller Group and Elephant Skin. We are uniquely positioned to offer a comprehensive range of services that blend strategic planning, creative solutions, and in-house renderings and CGI, bridging a crucial gap in the market. With a team of over 130 professionals spread across 7 global offices and a track record of more than 300 successful projects, we combine global outreach with local impact. Our approach is driven by innovation and a deep understanding of the real estate industry. By offering everything from strategic planning to cutting-edge creative and technical execution all under one roof, mg.ES sets new standards in real estate marketing, ensuring that each project benefits from a seamless integration of strategy and execution.
For more information about Olaf and mg-ES, please visit: mg-ES.asia
ANDRÉ VAN HUYSSTEEN
Founder | CEO
AIBE
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Development Advisory
Founder | CEO
AIBE
Location: Los Angeles
Specialization: Development Advisory
Executive Board Member | Director – SIP Project Management
Location: Dubai | Abu Dhabi
Specialization: Middle East | Africa
Discipline: PMCM
I had the pleasure of meeting André through mutual friends, and from the moment we connected, it was clear we shared a deep passion for delivering exceptional quality in our work and a genuine commitment to caring for our teams and families. André’s values align perfectly with Centropy’s mission, and his extensive experience with SIP is a tremendous asset. By joining forces with André and SIP, Centropy is now uniquely positioned to offer unparalleled on-the-ground management throughout the Middle East. This collaboration not only strengthens our ability to oversee projects from design to construction but also enhances our capability to deliver world-class results in one of the most dynamic markets globally. We are excited about the opportunities this partnership brings and look forward to making an even greater impact in the region.
With over two decades in the construction and development industry, André has established a distinguished career in Development Management, Project Management, Construction Management, Contract Administration, and Project Planning and Execution. His expertise encompasses large, multidisciplinary projects across diverse regions including the UAE, Africa, and Asia. Since 2013, André has been a Director and Executive Shareholder at SIP Project Managers, where he has been crucial to the company’s growth and success. His leadership was pivotal in launching SIP Global in the UAE, significantly expanding the company’s regional influence. André’s hands-on approach and commitment to excellence ensure the successful delivery of high-quality projects globally. Renowned for his ability to navigate complex challenges and foster a collaborative, results-oriented environment, André is a key industry figure, respected for his extensive experience and leadership.
Established in 1978, SIP has become a leading force in construction project management with a strong presence in the Middle East. Over the past 45 years, we’ve built a reputation for delivering innovative, high-quality solutions in some of the region’s most challenging markets, particularly in the UAE. Specializing in large-scale, themed developments and complex, high-profile projects, we are guided by core values of Integrity, Passion, Commitment, and Professionalism. A key milestone was our partnership with Mirage Leisure & Development and MLC International from 1997 to 2013, where we developed iconic UAE resorts, solidifying our regional expertise. As the Middle East continues to grow as a global innovation hub, SIP remains committed to contributing to its success through unmatched project management expertise.
For more information about Andre and SIP, please visit: SIPpm.co.za