AMPDA 2023: Neo Chin Leong on bringing creativity and passion to every project

by Aisha Capulong

Neo Chin Leong — the Founder and Creative Director of Paperworks Studio — is a star in the Malaysian design realm, with his unwavering dedication having earned him accolades and the trust of both clients and peers

Coolly going by ‘Neo’, the Creative Director over at Paperworks Studio enters the room with an easygoing disposition that is hard to forget. He carries himself with a sense of quiet confidence, one that uplifts and does not take away from others. Neo and his team view criticism as good feedback that has, more often than not, allowed them to further improve with in future projects. They gather this crucial information through a phenomenal after-care service, and if there are concerns, Paperworks Studio is quick to address them and amend accordingly.

Neo defines the studio’s design style as three core philosophies: modernism, minimalism and luxe. Paperworks Studio is known for their timeless curved forms, which according to the Creative Director is representative of how nature can bring spaces to life and make them appear more dynamic. After all, Neo’s muse is Dame Zaha Hadid — the “Queen of the Curve” herself. His veneration stands in how she was able to capture curves through layering, which if considered as a whole is simplifying a design’s elements while also highlighting and elevating them.

As he deliberates over his impressive tenure, Neo shares his bits of advice for designers looking to achieve what he has in the industry. He emphasises the importance of a healthy work-life balance and encourages designers to seek inspiration through travel and visiting new places. Neo then passionately calls for designers to upskill their circle of carpenters and contractors. By challenging one’s fellow builders to grow and experiment with the design studio, it will ultimately lead to better project workmanship and quality. Neo simply wishes he did it sooner.