INDEX offers a more dimensional view of the design landscape across Asia by introducing design studios and companies that demonstrate clear design philosophies and notable achievements. Spanning graphic design, branding, spatial design, product, digital, and motion, INDEX focuses on emerging practices and looks beyond portfolios to examine how they work, where their ideas come from, and what they stand for. Rather than cataloguing projects, INDEX documents the design language and attitudes shaped by local identity, industry, and cultural environments across Asia.

Indonesia

Studio: SHAU

URL: https://www.shau.nl/

Profile: SHAU is a Jakarta based boutique architecture and urban design studio co founded by Florian Heinzelmann and Daliana Suryawinata. Operating with a deeply contextual and socially responsible mindset, the studio treats spatial design as a vital mechanism for ecological and community transformation. They specialize in multi functional public spaces, commercial lifestyle complexes, and innovative micro libraries, utilizing climate conscious engineering to optimize energy efficiency. By merging bold geometric forms with local community needs, SHAU elevates the social and economic value of built environments, proving that independent spatial practices can act as fundamental drivers of modern urban revitalization.

Thailand

Studio: Sher Maker

URL: https://www.shermaker.com/

Profile: Sher Maker is a Chiang Mai based independent architectural design studio. Operating with a hands on and process oriented methodology, the studio treats spatial architecture and construction as a profound research medium to explore local material technology. They specialize in adapting vernacular crafting techniques for contemporary commercial spaces, luxury hospitality, and cultural institutions, collaborating closely with regional builders. By integrating raw natural textures with rigorous structural geometry, Sher Maker enhances the contextual value of physical properties, demonstrating that a lean independent studio can successfully drive regional identity and long term market appreciation.

Vietnam

Studio: Kientruc O

URL: https://kientruco.com/

Profile: Kientruc O is a Ho Chi Minh City based premier spatial design consultancy founded by Dam Vu. Operating as a highly analytical creative powerhouse, the studio treats architectural design not merely as aesthetic styling, but as a systematic business solution based on contextual urban research. The studio collaborates extensively with emerging enterprises in education, hospitality, and retail industries, transforming complex structural limitations into highly intuitive user experiences. By meticulously analyzing local climate patterns and contemporary market demands, Kientruc O dictates new commercial standards, proving that rigorous spatial design thinking is the ultimate vehicle for brand transformation.