How we work

Lekker is a "deep" research and design agency. We work on funded studies that explore architecture as a medium for social engagement—that is, how environments can tell stories and communicate emotions, encourage activity, and empower people. These are focused mainly in the areas of experiential spaces (including those for education and inclusion), design for children, and for ageing and dementia. Our research is granted by national agencies, and in partnership with institutions such as the National University of Singapore (NUS), Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD), and the Lee Kuan Yew Centre for Innovative Cities. Our research projects typically result in quantitative and qualitative data, prototypes, and reports. 

We also create design ideas for clients, and work with leading industry architects to deliver them. For architecture, interiors, and landscape, our typical scope ranges from concept ideation—creating visuals that your team can evaluate and discuss— to the production of drawings for tender and oversight of the construction process. The scope for other types of design project are determined, together with our clients, on a case-by-case basis to best meet their needs.

Recognition

Our work has received numerous awards, including Singapore’s President*s Design Award for Design of the Year in 2015 and 2023, the Singapore Institute of Architects Design Award 2020, URA’s Architectural Heritage Award and Patron of Heritage 2019 by National Heritage Board. Lekker also was awarded Taiwan’s prestigious Golden Pin Design Award and the Maison & Objet Emerging Practice award. Joshua and Shing were both awarded Harvard’s Wheelwright Fellowship. We have been published in Wallpaper*, Monocle, FRAME, The New York Times and T Magazine, Dwell, and elswhere. The office has exhibited three times as Venice Architecture Biennale and once in the Venice Biennale of Art. Hack Care, a project from 2020, is in the permanent collection of the V&A East Museum in London.