RSP is proud to share that two of our architects, Ar. Cheryl Lim Zi Ying (39) and Ar. Quck Zhong Yi (44) have been recognised in the fourth edition of the Urban Redevelopment Authority’s (URA) prestigious ‘20 Under 45’ architects programme, a milestone that celebrates emerging design leaders shaping the future of Singapore’s built environment.
Initiated in 2004, the ‘20 Under 45’ programme was established to recognise and celebrate young and emerging registered architects in Singapore who have demonstrated design excellence, professional rigour and a growing body of impactful work. Across its first three editions in 2004, 2010 and 2017, the programme spotlighted 60 architects, many of whom have since gone on to become influential figures locally and internationally, contributing to the elevation of Singapore’s architectural standing on the global stage.
Ar. Cheryl Lim Zi Ying, 39
Cheryl honed her skills at various firms such as W Architects, Architects 61, CSYA, Studio Milou Singapore, SCDA Architects and Arc Studio Architecture & Urbanism. She has designed several award-winning projects that adapt existing historic buildings and natural spaces, such as the St James Power Station (at W Architects; 2022 URA Architectural Heritage Award and SIA Architectural Design Awards) and the JTC CleanTech Three (at Architects 61; 2023 Architizer A+Awards, World Architecture Festival Finalist, SIA Architectural Design Awards).
Her designs for both projects were done with a deep respect and sensitive understanding of the buildings and sites, to honour the past and ecological terrain while creating useful and memorable spaces for new uses.
Ar. Quck Zhong Yi, 44
Zhong Yi graduated from École Spéciale d’Architecture Paris, and has since accumulated a diverse professional experience: experimental design at R&Sie in Paris, defence architecture at the Defence Science and Technology Agency, urban design at the Urban Redevelopment Authority, houses and interior design at Formwerkz Architects and ASOLIDPLAN, and institutional, commercial and industrial projects at RSP.
His works have been awarded by the Singapore Institute of Architects, Taipei International Design Award, Habitus Living, and SG Good Design Award. Zhong Yi was also an Adjunct Lecturer at LASALLE College of the Arts, and stage set designer for multiple National Day Parades.
Celebrating contemporary practice and industry impact
The fourth edition of URA’s ‘20 Under 45’ programme recognises 23 Singapore architects who exemplify excellence in contemporary architectural practice. Collectively, this cohort highlights the vital role architects play in shaping Singapore’s built environment and reflects the evolving nature of architectural practice today.
Their works demonstrate a strong commitment to design quality from reconnecting people with nature and sensitively restoring heritage buildings, to creating diverse and memorable living spaces. Beyond professional practice, these architects also contribute meaningfully to the industry and community as mentors and advocates, nurturing the next generation of architects and designers.
Public exhibition, book and talks
As part of the fourth edition, members of the public are invited to engage with the programme through a series of exhibitions, publications and talks:
‘20 Under 45’: Fourth Edition Exhibition
Date: 23 January – 31 March 2026
Venue: The URA Centre Atrium, 45 Maxwell Road
Admission is free
‘20 Under 45’: Fourth Edition Book
The accompanying publication presents the architects’ personal reflections, design thinking and inspirations behind Singapore’s many built works, as well as their aspirations for the future. The book is available at major bookstores and at BOOKSTOP, a self-service station located at The URA Centre, Level 1 atrium.
‘20 Under 45’ Public Talks
A series of specially curated public talks will see the architects share their professional journeys. Join the first forum, where Cheryl and Zhong Yi will present their works, design philosophies and creative responses to larger urban challenges. From churches and national monuments to shophouses, this forum explores how architects balance heritage and contemporary needs, capturing memories of the past while creating new meaning for the future.
Forum 1: How can we design for both the past and future?
Date: 4 February 2026 (Wednesday)
Time: 3.30pm – 5.30pm
Venue: Function Hall, The URA Centre, Level 5
Register: https://form.gov.sg/696dcec7007bb2560333f097 (ticket reservation opens from 27 January 2026, 3pm.)
RSP congratulates all recipients of the fourth edition of URA’s ‘20 Under 45’ programme and is honoured to be part of a collective that continues to advance Singapore’s architectural future guided by our ethos of design meeting humanity.
