Tell us about the genesis and development of DCA.

DCA came about almost 25 years ago when David Chan and I got together to work on bespoke and custom-designed homes, at a time when many architects shied away from them due to their complexities. Both of us have academic backgrounds teaching architecture in universities and working with students with drawings and models. This working methodology is carried through and applied to our ways of working in the office with ideas discussed over hand-made white models and sketch plans. This process of ‘making’ helped in addressing difficult sites and projects and provided an effective means of communication with clients.

DCA has since expanded to include sub-studios like EDI and DCA+ with additional and new partners and directors and we are looking forward to celebrating our 25th year anniversary in 2026.

What are some residential projects you have recently completed?

It’s usually the smaller ones we find closer to our hearts. They’re the ones with a bit more design exploration and ideas usually due to site constraints, owners’ needs and cost.

One that comes to mind is a small holiday ‘beach’ home in Port Dickson, relatively compact with an open layout looking towards the Straits of Melaka.

Another is a private residence we completed a few years back in Phnom Penh where we had to work through Covid restrictions while managing suppliers and sub-contractors from abroad. Products weren’t too easily available in Phnom Penh and had to be shipped in from neighbouring countries and Malaysia. 

To me, interesting sites make for interesting projects.

You are very involved in educational activities in Malaysia. Can you tell us more about these?

I have been teaching for over 20 years. Initially with Limkokwing University and subsequently with Taylors University where I’ve been for over 15 years.  I’ve paused for the last two years due to time constraints and workload in the office but I return for design reviews and final crits. I find going back to university a form of relief from the real world day-to-day work. it stimulates the design mind when discussing ideas with students and exploring design concepts.

On top of this, I got together with a group of like-minded architects and academics in 2017 to set up a non-profit architecture foundation, DOMA Initiatives Berhad, with the intention of promoting the next generation of architects and designers. It’s an open platform that encourages discussion among like-minded designers around the region to share experiences and ideas. 

Which three designers, past or present, do you most admire? Why?

Corbusier. Especially his earlier works like Ronchamp and Villa Savoye. Spatial composition and programme- specific designs were explored together with the introduction of new structural designs. His 5 points of modern architecture is still very much relevant till this day and continues to influence younger architects. 

Lautner. For his flamboyant approach to design and how he looks at each house that he builds differently with different solutions and outcomes. The sites and the owners each influence his designs making each project a one-off.

Niemeyer. Simplicity of form yet monumental in composition. The design intention is achieved with simple strokes and composed of just a few massing blocks. 

Name three of your favourite buildings in SEA

The Cultural Centre of the Philippines (by Leandro Locsin). A simple cantilevered block, reminiscent of something from Niemeyer’s playbook. It’s clean, uncluttered and makes a statement as a cultural centre. 

KLCC Petronas Twin Towers (Cesar Pelli). More for its timeless approach to design and not one that would have been trendy back when it was built. The Twin Towers is almost 30 years old today and remains a pleasant sight amongst the fast-growing Kuala Lumpur skyline. It remains relevant and pristine and will probably outlast the more recent and flashier skyscrapers in the city.

38Mews. Obviously my own little house that I get to retreat to every day and just be myself, being very much an introvert working in a very extroverted world.

Chan Mun Inn is the co-founder of Design Collective Architects (DCA), Kuala Lumpur