During their visit to the private cigar lounge “Club C+,” the first project jointly created by Steve Leung and Nicholas Leung, father and son saw it as an opportunity to deepen their bond and mutual trust through work.
Nicholas’s growth path has been challenging. From studying economics and working outside of design, to joining his father’s company, Steve Leung Design Group Limited, two years ago as COO, his journey reflects a new understanding of inheritance. He shared, “I once doubted whether a non-professional designer could interpret my father’s work,” but through practical experience, he realized that design is more than technique—it’s a mindset. “I used to worry I wasn’t from a design background, but I discovered that the core of design is a way of thinking— seeing every space and detail with care.” He believes his father’s philosophy emphasizes “just right” balance—neither too much nor too little, but perfectly suited. This concept has profoundly influenced him, guiding his pursuit of simplicity, naturalness, and balance in both management and life.
Steve responded, “Design isn’t just about outward appearance; it’s about attitude. Minimalism isn’t about doing less, but about knowing what to keep and what to let go.” Looking back on his 40-year career, he recalled his initial motto, “Enjoy Life, Enjoy Design,” and how he developed a philosophy of “design with measure,” emphasizing balance and control. He added, “Many people misunderstand me, thinking I do minimalist design, but I emphasize that ‘no limit’ is the key. Design isn’t about quantity, but about achieving the right level of simplicity.” He believes that true inheritance involves continuous reflection and adjustment to find one’s own balance.
“I believe that true wealth lies in understanding between people, in that intangible emotional connection.”
Multiple Facets of Inheritance
Steve hopes to jointly shape the company’s future direction with his son. He said, “I’ve always believed that long-term business development relies not only on skills but also on vision and management. I hope he can view the business from a different and fresh perspective.” Nicholas is also gaining cross- disciplinary experience, learning management and public service to bring new vitality to the company’s future. He candidly shared, “The essence of design is service—meeting needs and solving problems. That’s what I’ve learned in the company.” Steve added “I have always believed that giving children the space to pursue their own dreams is the most precious gift. I never expected my son would join the company — this is simply the right timing.” The“timing” he refers to was when Nicholas’s wife gave birth to their daughter two years ago, prompting him to reflect on a new stage of life. This milestone led him to decide to collaborate with his father on work.
When discussing wealth, Nicholas offered a profound perspective: “Wealth isn’t just money; it’s the accumulation of emotions, time, health, and creativity. I believe true wealth is the understanding and connection between people — that intangible emotional bond.” Reflecting on long-term family interactions, he added, “The trust and respect we share are the most valuable assets.” Steve also shared his view: “Now, I seek spiritual richness. Material possessions are fleeting, but what truly satisfies me are the connections with family, friends, and society. Even seeing my team settle down and have children brings me happiness.
Steve has always believed that the ultimate goal of design is to make people feel the warmth and sense of belonging of “home.” “The spaces we design aim to help everyone find comfort and peace within.” Nicholas also thinks: “The core of design is to build genuine connections with care. Design isn’t about showing off; it’s about making spaces carriers of emotion.” Both father and son believe that the essence of design is a dialogue between people and space, created through emotion and value. Truly good design is about evoking a feeling of being understood and cared for. They also emphasize that both design and life require a sense of “moderation.” Excess or deficiency leads to imbalance, and a balanced, appropriate attitude towards life is even more important.
Photography: Ivan Wong
Photography Assistant: Sun
Photo Courtesy of Steve Leung Design Group Limited
