Florence Chan Explores Skills, Technology, and Business Innovation at RAFA 2025

The KPF Principal joined industry leaders at the RIBA Architecture Festival Asia, a three-day event in Shenzhen.

Presentation: “Knowledge: Driver for Development” 5:05PM-5:20PM.

The presentation explored the key drivers shaping architectural practice today, examining emerging professional trends and the evolving role of the architect in a rapidly changing world. Florence offered insights into the operations of a successful architectural practice, drawing on her experience as Managing Principal of KPF’s Hong Kong and Shenzhen offices, as well as her leadership on many of the firm’s most successful projects.

Panel discussion: “Winning Future Work” 5:20-5:35PM.

Florence was joined on the panel by Ronn Yong, Director of Design and Development at Tian An China Investments Ltd; Jo Bacon, Managing Partner at Allies and Morrison; Christopher Lye, Hub Executive Chair of Hong Kong, Shenzhen, and Singapore at Woods Bagot; and Jiaqi Qu, Deputy Director of the CTBUH Asia Headquarters Office, who chaired the panel.

As a RIBA-certified architect, Florence’s engagement with the RIBA has provided her with a platform to inspire both young and established professionals, and to share her views on the evolving professional environment. In recent months, she has participated in the RIBA Future Architects Forum and the RIBA Future Business of Architecture Conference.

The RAFA 2025 programme features a symposium with panel discussions, keynote talks, and workshops, alongside live design reviews and architectural tours. The festival took place at the Shenzhen World Exhibition & Convention Center from December 16-18.