WOW

WOW: Experiential Design for a Changing World explores the work of the multi-disciplinary design firms Warner Wong Design and WOW Architects. The title alludes to two key aspects of their practice: first, the focus on multi-sensory experiences; and second, the complexity and dynamism that comes from producing work in a rapidly developing region. These themes are explored through detailed presentations of thirteen completed projects, including six private homes and six hotels. In addition to rich photography, drawings and in-progress sketches, the book offers behind-the-scenes peeks into the construction of the projects at various stages. The book also features excerpts from an in-depth interview with the two founding partners of WOW, Maria Warner Wong and Wong Chiu Man. They discuss the challenges and opportunities of working in diverse and fast-evolving areas of the world, from developing regions in India and Africa to the more advanced urban contexts of Singapore and Dubai. Whatever the economic context and locally available construction methods, the mission for each and every project is to create a rich spatial experience that is rooted in culture, memory and place.