Kelvin Ho

WHAT DO YOU DO?

I run a Sydney-based architecture and interior design company, AKIN creative. I founded the company in 2005. We focus on the luxury & high-end hotel, fashion, hospitality and residential markets.

DO YOU HAVE A FAVORITE HOTEL IN THE WORLD?

Cocoa Island Maldives by COMO. The scale of design, service and food is outstanding.

WHY THE HOTEL BUSINESS?

The hotel business is a relatively new part of our design portfolio. I love it because it brings together the fields of residential, hospitality and retail. We are working on hotel projects in Australia and in the Maldives…and hopefully more in the pipeline!

HOTEL ANECDOTE YOU'D LIKE TO SHARE?

We had a hotel client that told us the first rule of good hotel design is being able to comfortably f*ck on every piece of furniture without it breaking.

BIGGEST CHANGE YOU'VE SEEN IN THE INDUSTRY?

The diversification of hotel space has been the biggest change in the industry. Now that travel and information have become much more accessible through social media, the value of time has increased significantly and good hotels are capitalizing on this opportunity through niche offerings and a sense of personalization.

DREAM JOB?

Professional race car driver.

FAVORITE MINI BAR ITEM OR HOTEL AMENITY?

Personalized Stationary for Mr Ho.