Woods Bagot’s Principal, Hub Executive Chair – Hong Kong, Shenzhen and Singapore, Christopher Lye, and Associate and Design Leader, Dennis Chan, joined undergraduates at The Chinese University of Hong Kong for a guest lecture in the course Facilities Development and Management for Hospitality and Real Estate.
During the session, Chris and Dennis introduced how real architectural practices integrate design, operations and facilities management. Sharing Woods Bagot’s multidisciplinary approach, Chris emphasised the importance of user-focused thinking in every project.
“Design starts with people,” he said. “Our job is to translate how people behave and what organisations need into spaces that work and feel right every day.”
Dennis followed with practical insights into concept development, planning logic and how designers anticipate operational needs long before a building is completed.
“A successful space isn’t just visually appealing—it must be intuitive and functional,” he noted. “Design and facility planning must always move together.”
Using examples from workplace, mixed‑use, retail and education projects across Asia-Pacific, the two showed students how circulation, safety, sustainability, technology and long‑term maintenance shape early design decisions. They also discussed evolving trends such as hybrid work, community‑driven spaces and data-informed planning.
Nansha Innovation & Technology Park Phase 4
Hazens Loongteng Sales Center
Shenzhen QFC Qianhai Financial Centre
The session was interactive, with students asking how the concepts aligned with what they learned in class. Chris and Dennis also shared career reflections, offering guidance for those exploring opportunities in design, real estate or facilities management.
“Our sincere thanks for Chris and Dennis’s guest lecture. Your class was engaging and your insights were inspiring. I am very sure that our students have gained a lot of knowledge on Facilities Management planning and design from you. Your extensive sharing is like an eye-opening to our students. We are truly grateful for Woods Bagot’s support to CUHK.” Said @Ervi Liusman, Ph.D. Senior Lecturer at CUHK Business School.
The talk provided students with a clear connection between academic FM theories and the realities of design practice. It also highlighted Woods Bagot’s commitment to supporting future talent and contributing to education in the built environment.
Media enquiries Shirley Hao Content and Communications Leader (China)
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