Mr. Tay Kheng Soon

Mr. Tay Kheng Soon was among the first batch of architects to graduate from Singapore Polytechnic’s architectural school in 1964. Known for his strong viewpoints and forthright approach to architectural issues, Mr. Tay has been described as having “a way of thinking laterally that challenges the norm.”

Mr. Tay started his professional career with Malayan Architects Co-partnership set up by Lim Chong Keat, his teacher and mentor, and later established Akitek Tengagara in 1976. He has long been an advocate of buildings that are appropriate to a tropical environment, and his designs such as KK Hospital, the Institute of Technical Education (ITE) Bishan and Serangoon Gardens Country Club, all display this sensitivity to place and environment.

Mr. Tay is also an advocate for improving and enlightening strategies in the conduct of architectural competitions that include dialogue with relevant authorities. This approach led to increased professionalism in the way that competitions were conducted.

He served as SIA’s President from 1991 until 1993.

Just as he is known for his architectural contributions, Mr. Tay is equally appreciated for his academic approach, having researched and published important papers presenting his ideas about architecture and urban planning.