Shin Tseng

Director, Urban Agenda Design Group

 

This architect elevated downtown Kuala Lumpur by revitalising old heritage buildings

Malacca-native Shin Tseng, armed with a master’s degree from The Bartlett School of Architecture in London, honed his skills in urban planning, hospitality, mixed-use development, and adaptive re-use through experiences in London and Hong Kong. Upon his return to Malaysia, he embarked on transformative architectural endeavours.

His remarkable projects include the revitalisation of the historic Rex cinema into REXKL, a thriving arts-and-culture hub.Growing up in Melaka surrounded by heritage buildings, Tseng has a strong appreciation for old structures, and is passionate about adaptive re-use as a means of breathing new life into them. In 2017, he partnered with fellow architect Shin Chang to re-purpose and revive the old Rex Cinema into a creative space, complete with a multi-purpose venue for events plus an all-day urban food hall and sustainable marketplace.

Additionally, he played a pivotal role in the redevelopment of The Five in Damansara Heights and Semua House in Chow Kit, Kuala Lumpur. These spaces have been reactivated with the inclusion of hip cafes and restaurants, central social event areas, and trendy shops, drawing renewed interest from the public and enhancing the overall urban experience. His visionary approach has not only preserved the historical essence of these places but also breathed new life into them, fostering vibrant, community-oriented environments that resonate with both locals and visitors alike.

Did You Know?


One of Shin Tseng’s earlier projects was the local office of personal-growth company Mindvalley, which was in part inspired by the stained glass in Gaudi’s Sagrada Familia basilica, and was listed as one of the ten most beautiful offices of 2019 by Inc magazine.

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