As Design and Construction firm XLMS celebrates its 10th anniversary, it also announces the launch of its new office in Sydney, Australia! – marking an international expansion as well as the beginning of a new chapter.
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Nestled in Hong Kong’s burgeoning Data Technology Hub in TKO, digital content creators, brands, and artists converge to bring their visions to life at Votion Studios. This extended reality (XR) studio and virtual production facility, the first of its kind in the region, is home to an eclectic mix of cutting-edge creative tools and workflows.
Characterised by sharp industrial elements and vibrant orange accents, the facility’s design reflects a commitment to innovation that appeals to the Gen Z demographic, supported by a blend of XR tech, coworking areas, and event spaces.
Behind the creation of Votion Studios is XLMS, a name becoming known for its architectural and design acuity,. From its inception in 2014, this award-winning integrated design and construction company has not just built spaces—XLMS has crafted experiences within the overlapping boundaries of architecture, interior design and construction management.
The innovation effect
In its decade-long journey, XLMS has redefined venues with iconic projects like the world’s first boutique hotel by skincare brand L’Occitane en Provence. Situated in the new Lisboeta Macau Integrated Resort at Cotai, Maison L’Occitane Hotel was designed under the creative direction of XLMS founder Ian Hau. Each of the hotel’s 164 rooms and suites draws inspiration from the charm of southern France, themed after L’Occitane’s iconic natural ingredients including Immortelle, Verbena, Cherry Blossom, and Shea Butter.
Ian’s vision has steered XLMS to notable recognition, earning him the Perspective ’40 under 40′ award, ‘Innovator of the Year’ at the 2019 German Design Award, and the Excellence in Best Distinctiveness Award in the category of Architecture & Construction at the 2023 Hong Kong Design Association Awards.
As XLMS celebrates ten years of transforming spaces and construction works, Votion Studios is the latest in the company’s growth from builders to pioneers at the intersection of architecture and the digital frontier.
Cultural context meets international influence
As XLMS plants its roots in Sydney, Leslie Au Yeung, who leads the company’s multi-disciplinary design and construction teams, shares an enthusiasm for the Australian chapter. “I’m excited about bringing our luxury living and holistic approach to Australia,” he says.
For Ian, the Sydney expansion also holds a deeper resonance. “As an Australian Chinese, opening XLMS in Australia holds personal significance,” he shares. “This venture will give us the chance to bring XLMS’s ethos into a new territory, where we hope to contribute to the country’s urban fabric.”
Ian’s approach at XLMS integrates local intricacies with broader global trends. This process involves understanding each location’s unique cultural context, collaborating with community stakeholders, and shaping designs that reflect the identity of the site while also drawing on international influences.
XLMS’s project on Hainan’s Wenchang Beachfront is an example of this approach. The company collaborated with Cundall, on the sustainable resort project. XLMS incorporated advanced parametric computation in its architecture to achieve a striking “wave” form, echoing the landscapes surrounding the 5-star luxury beach resort. The company did so whilst also prioritising structural engineering and sustainability, adhering to the WELL Building Standard™ and LEED principles.
In a different vein, yet echoing the same philosophy of integrating vernacular essence with global sophistication, XLMS unveils another chapter in their narrative within May Tower, nestled in Hong Kong’s Mid Levels neighbourhood. This endeavour spans an impressive 2,300 sqft, catering to the dynamic lifestyle of a young family. Here, the urban panorama becomes an integral part of the living space, with expansive views of the city skyline framed perfectly from a unique multi-level triplex arrangement. This feature not only maximises the scenic vistas but also introduces an element of architectural novelty, offering vantage points from its elevated balcony.
The project is a study in ‘quiet luxury’, achieving a balance between lavishness and minimalism through a careful selection of materials. Neutral textures and tones weave through the space, accented by classic wall lines that harmonise with modern elements. Materials such as wood veneer, tiles, cement-like special paint, and metal are employed with precision, showcasing a muted colour palette. Every element is thoughtfully curated and executed, reflecting XLMS’s dedication to visually stunning spaces that enhance the lives of those who inhabit them.
Immersive spaces
According to Ian, XMLS differentiates itself by integrating technology into their retail designs, creating immersive spaces that offer unique customer experiences. “That’s what sets our clients’ brands apart from competitors,” he says.
One such space is the construction of BELOWGROUND beneath the bustling streets of Hong Kong’s Landmark Central. Here, among the echo of footfalls on polished concrete, the lines between fashion, art, and commerce blur. Within this space, the BelowGround FM Hong Kong radio station seriously shakes things up by disrupting the peace of the shopping mall’s shiny tiles above. The community radio station broadcasts dance and indie bands, and holds podcasts recording sessions as well as DJing workshops.
Aboveground sits another project constructed by XLMS—Wristcheck. Every watch connoisseur’s dream, Wristcheck is unique for its interactive displays, which involve touch gestures on the glass surface recognised by a LIDAR system.
In Shenzhen, XMLS also introduced Treasures & Scent—the city’s first chocolate retail outlet within The Langham. The venue blends modern with classic, employing marble and golden trims to evoke a romantic atmosphere. The venue extends its allure through cake-making workshops, positioning itself as a destination for high tea enthusiasts. These sessions, led by expert dessert chefs, invite guests to dive into the art of dessert, making each visit a journey through taste, technique, and tradition.
Resonating with community
For Leslie, leading his teams to success is possible by fostering a culture where modernism and collaboration are emphasised. “At XLMS, we embrace a ‘Think Tank’ philosophy. We enable design and construction management leaders to contribute their expertise at all levels,” he says. This powers the company’s promise to deliver quality buildings within budget and on schedule.
Ian takes pride in tailoring design management systems to suit clients’ needs. “That’s how we facilitate effective communication as well as aesthetic excellence,” he says.
As XLMS expands and continues its work across Asia, the firm is committed to creating spaces that not only stand out for their composition but also reverberate with the communities they serve.
Reflecting on XLMS’s path, Ian sees the awards garnered as more than just trophies; they’re affirmations of the firm’s dedication to blending aesthetics with functionality. “The recognition underscores our commitment and the respect we’ve earned globally,” he says.
Yet, for XLMS, the narrative is far from over. The firm is poised to craft more than buildings—they’re shaping communities, one project at a time. As this story unfolds, XLMS stands ready to inscribe its next chapter, promising a dedication to relevant design philosophy that resonates and endures.
Ian Hau
Founder, XLMS
Leslie Au Yeung
Director, XLMS
For further details, please visite xlms.co.
