18 November 2025
GQ Local Heroes：André Fu
Internationally renowned Hong Kong designer André Fu is acclaimed for his blend of Eastern and Western aesthetics. This year, his designs for the new Dusit Thani hotel in Bangkok and Capella Taipei continue to showcase his unwavering pursuit of pure beauty. Through numerous award-winning projects he has infused with warmth and a sense of human connection, Fu’s works have elevated Asian creativity onto the international stage.
In the midst of a rapidly changing world, the definition of a hero has become blurred. Is it someone who rewrites history and molds an era? Or is it someone who abides by their principles and strives to create beauty in the midst of the mundane? When I proposed the question to André at his studio, he said, “I always maintain a learner’s mindset. Sometimes, after receiving awards, I think back to the designers I’ve always admired—those heroes who conveyed emotion and embodied the spirit of their times. Can I use design to capture the essence of an era?”
Discussing the reasons for his awards, André believes it is because his aesthetics resonate with contemporary values. He admits that he cares more about whether the design qualities and aesthetics he radiates are genuine and pure. “I’m not interested in showing off; I hope that each piece can convey a sincere feeling. Sometimes I see people on social media tagging hotels that I designed during their travels, as well as my studio’s brand, which shows me that people relate to my design philosophy.” His eyes reflect a calm and profound light, characteristic of the humble and dutiful individual André is known to be. His distinctive aura—much like the spaces he designs—feels comfortable and warm. “I have always hoped that those who enter the spaces I’ve designed will feel a natural sense of comfort and affinity. The concept of ‘Relaxed Luxury’ has guided me for over ten years and hasn’t faded with time. Each city has its own temperament and rhythm, like the leisure of Taipei and the convenience of Hong Kong. I aim to incorporate such feelings into my work to create a sensory and profound experience.” Each space becomes a vessel of emotion; it’s not merely about a design layout, but a way of life.
I have always hoped that those who enter the spaces I’ve designed will feel a natural sense of comfort and affinity. The concept of Relaxed Luxury has guided me for over ten years and hasn’t faded with time.
A graduate of the architecture department at Cambridge University, André previously worked for renowned architect John Pawson, and is one of the founders of André Fu Studio design company. His practice spans major cities like London, Hong Kong, and Shanghai, focusing primarily on the interior design of high-end restaurants, bars, and hotels. Having gone from being recognised as one of the most promising Asian designers by leading travel and design publications, to becoming a top interior designer in the industry, André acknowledges that his career choice is a long-term commitment. “Every promise, every project is a long-term investment and a waiting game. Some projects may take seven years to complete; this persistence isn’t about seeking short-term exposure but about being true to oneself. I just want to focus on the present moment because I believe every achievement is the result of years of accumulation.”
Amidst this fast-paced society, André views interior design as a practice of self-cultivation that ceases to waver in the face of change. “I believe the classic quality of a space lies not in its striking appearance but in its ability to resonate throughout the ages. Designing a space takes time. Many young designers ask me for advice, and it’s actually very simple: Endurance is crucial. Quick success is certainly tempting, but true value is shaped through long-term dedication and perseverance.”
Many young designers ask me for advice, and it’s actually very simple: Endurance is crucial. Quick success is certainly tempting, but true value is shaped through long-term dedication and perseverance.
With André’s work continuing to expand towards all corners of the globe, he is currently working on several design projects in Japan and beyond. He emphasises that design should not simply be surface imitation, but rather a practice centred by a profound understanding of local culture that brings new life to a space. He finds fulfillment in incorporating personal emotions and stories into each project, transforming the space into a unique vessel of time. “Throughout this process, I’ve learned about respect and inclusivity. Every culture is a story, and every space is a chapter. I hope to integrate local culture into my designs for a fresh perspective. Each project is a gamble; you never know what the outcome will be, but that uncertainty is what is most compelling. Every investment involves a challenge and a learning opportunity for me.”
With regards to leading his team, he believes that true leadership stems from a passion and dedication to the work. “When you’re enthusiastic about what you do, you can inspire those around you. Of course, I also have my ups and downs, but I believe that every problem has a solution. What’s important is to make everyone feel that their role in the process is valuable,” André says with a smile.
Despite his globetrotting lifestyle, André’s roots are planted firmly in Hong Kong. Even as the city evolves and changes with the times, it is these shifts that enable him to experience the nuances of each moment. “Hong Kong is where my career began, and I will never forget my first design project: the Upper House Hotel. It remains one of my favourite works. I was just over thirty at the time, and I was quite nervous because I had never designed for a hotel before, and nobody really knew what the Upper House should look like. But on the other hand, as a designer born in Hong Kong, I felt incredibly proud to be part of such a meaningful and challenging project.”
This was a starting point, a moment to be grateful for and one that André will always cherish. It was this design experience in Hong Kong that paved the way for his creative growth. As our interview was coming to an end, he shared that he is preparing to launch a publication that reflects his latest views on design and life. We both agreed that the physical qualities of a book, the warmth of its words, and the beauty of its layout all require time and thought to create, much like interior design.
During my conversation with André Fu, he conveyed a designer’s reflections on life, the times, and aesthetics with unwavering warmth and depth. Sometimes, a hero doesn’t need to change the world in drastic ways; often, it’s about showcasing the world’s diversity in their unique way. André Fu embodies that philosophy.
Photography: Olivia Tsang
Styling: Sing Lei
Make up & hair: Constance Chan
Fashion Assistant: Nicholas Chan
Photographer Assistant: Tommy Ng
Wardrobe: Loro Piana
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