INTRODUCING THE MUSE HOTEL AWARDS
PANEL OF JUDGES

United Kingdom

Paul Vick

Founder, Paul Vick Architects

Paul Vick is a professional Chartered RIBA architect, Fellow of the Royal Society of Arts and the founder of Paul Vick Architects.

As the founder of Paul Vick Architects, Vick plays a pivotal role in setting the firm's vision and guiding its architectural philosophy. He is deeply involved in the creative process, leading the design and execution of projects that blend innovation with practicality. Vick's leadership emphasizes a client-centered approach, ensuring that each project reflects the unique needs and aspirations of those it serves. His commitment to sustainable and impactful design has positioned Paul Vick Architects as a respected and forward-thinking player in the architectural industry.

He has delivered lectures at both UCL and MIT. His work has appeared in publications like Architect's Journal and World Architecture News, among others. His education includes training at Cambridge University and Oxford Brookes University, along with significant time spent in Washington DC and Beijing.

Portugal

Tiago do Vale

Senior Architect, Tiago do Vale Arquitectos

Tiago do Vale has contributed his remarkable skills as the senior architect at Tiago do Vale Arquitectos for a span of 15 years.

As the senior architect, he oversees complex architectural projects from inception to completion. His extensive experience and creative vision contribute to the development of innovative design solutions that address clients' unique needs and aspirations. He plays a pivotal role in mentoring and guiding junior architects, fostering their professional growth and ensuring the successful execution of projects.

He is a Senator and Member of the University Assembly and serves as an editor for the book "Urban Complex" published by Design Media Publishing, and its Chinese counterpart, "城市综合体," by Liaoning Science and Technology Publishing House. Vale’s published works have gained international recognition, and he has delivered lectures and authored articles on topics spanning architecture, urban planning, and rehabilitation in various locations.

Italy

Lucia Sztarenki

Expert in Global Marketing, Frette

Lucia Sztarenki is an expert in international marketing, possessing extensive experience in the beauty and luxury industry.

Sztarenki has built her career in multinational corporations, spearheading the introduction of new products and campaigns for renowned brands, including Calvin Klein Fragrances and Frette. Her role involved orchestrating market entry strategies and leading the creative vision for these high-profile launches. Her expertise is marked by a keen understanding of global market dynamics and consumer preferences, which has been instrumental in the successful rollout of products across various international markets. Her strategic insights and innovative approaches have consistently generated buzz and consumer engagement, further establishing the prestige of the brands within the luxury segment. Her contribution has not only boosted brand visibility but has also significantly enhanced their market presence worldwide.

Her diverse cross-cultural experiences and profound international expertise have continually fortified her strategic and inventive approach when engaging with global markets.

Austria

Jan Svoboda

President, Heritage Hotels of Europe

Jan Svoboda is the experienced hotelier and the capable President of Heritage Hotels of Europe.

In his role as president, he oversees the management of over 300 properties across 13 countries in Europe. With an extensive background exceeding 20 years in the hotel business and management, he brings a wealth of experience to his position. Beyond his operational responsibilities, he is recognized as a highly respected speaker, often sharing his insights on various international forums.

Svoboda’s exceptional contributions to the industry have not gone unnoticed, and he is generously rewarded for his remarkable achievements. These accolades and rewards reflect the recognition of his outstanding leadership, strategic vision, and significant impact on the success and growth of the business. Whether through industry awards, honors, or other forms of recognition, his gracious reception of these rewards underscores the widespread acknowledgment of his invaluable contributions to the field.

Norway

Hans-Petter Bjørnådal

CEO, Creative Director and Principal Architect, Bjørnådal Arkitektstudio

Hans-Petter Bjørnådal is the chief executive officer, creative director and the principal architect of architectural firm, Bjørnådal Arkitektstudio.

Bjørnådal steers the ship of our company's operations with a keen eye on comprehensive management as he is responsible for the company's comprehensive management and strategic vision. As the Creative Director, he takes the lead in shaping the projects' creative vision, design concepts, and artistic direction. Concurrently, in his role as the Principal Architect, he contributes his architectural expertise to ensure that each project seamlessly combines aesthetic excellence and functional efficiency. This holistic role empowers him to foster innovation, motivate his team, and uphold the utmost standards of architectural quality.

In addition to his involvement in architecture and scenography, he maintains a strong emphasis on researching nomadic cultures and exploring the relationship between contemporary humanity and the natural world. His contributions and projects have earned recognition, being featured in prestigious international publications

Indonesia

Erwin Hawawinata

Principal Architect and Interior Designer, Hawawinata & Associates

Erwin Hawawinata holds the role of lead architect and interior designer at Hawawinata N Associates, boasting a career spanning more than two decades in the architecture and interior design field.

Over the course of Hawawinata’s career, he has been extensively engaged in conceptualizing various accommodation projects. As part of his daily responsibilities, he is actively engaged in sketching architectural blueprints, meticulously selecting the materials essential for construction, and providing direct oversight throughout the architectural and interior design phases. This includes overseeing the placement of furnishings and the final touches that contribute to the overall aesthetics and functionality of the spaces.

His establishment of Hawawinata N Associates has paved the way for him to create a portfolio filled with exquisite residences, exclusive private offices, and captivating galleries, all catering to the discerning tastes of Indonesia's elite clientele. His impressive work garnered recognition and earned him multiple prestigious international awards.

Bulgaria

Vasil Velchev

Media & Product Life Cycle Manager, Europe, Ideal Standard International NV

Despite earning a master's degree in electrical engineering, Vasil Velchev has amassed over a decade of experience as a graphic designer within global organizations. Initially, his foray into product design was more of a hobby, but as his creations gained international recognition and garnered awards, his confidence in his ideas grew.

Several years ago, He initiated the MAGMA project, a platform aimed at consolidating his diverse creations under one umbrella. The project's name is symbolic, representing the designer's belief that every original idea should remain in a constant "liquid" state, continuously evolving to explore its full potential and staying vibrant until it transforms into a tangible product.

Velchev also serves as a valued member of the Grand Jury for prestigious awards. His remarkable talent has earned him approximately 20 international awards across various categories, with a primary focus on furniture design, recognized by design awards worldwide.

United States

Alice Li

Director, Cultural Strategy and Innovation, sparks and honey (Omnicom Group)

Alice Li is the Director of Cultural Strategy and Innovation at sparks & honey (Omnicom Group), a consultancy that uses tech-driven cultural intelligence to help organizations understand and stay ahead of global shifts.

Li is the trusted authority on future frameworks and spearheads the majority of future projects at sparks & honey. As a quantitative futurist with a proven track record in foresight and innovation strategy, Li has advised numerous Fortune 100 C-suite executives, aiding in their decision-making endeavors.

Beyond her role in management consulting, she holds a distinguished position as a judge for international design awards. Her goal is to provide the design community with a rich array of cultural perspectives, empowering the next generation to make informed, forward-thinking design decisions. This, in turn, prepares them to be responsible and thoughtful contributors to society, making impactful contributions to the world.

New Zealand

Jeremy Smith

Design Director and Lecturer, Irving Smith Architects

Jeremy Smith is the Design Director of Irving Smith Architects, a research-based design practice working in sensitive environments throughout Aotearoa New Zealand and abroad.

His involvement with Architecture New Zealand not only entails writing but also underscores his active role in shaping critical perspectives within the field. Having served as a judge in diverse global contexts, including India, Singapore, Berlin, Amsterdam, and Lisbon, he brings a wealth of cross-cultural insights to the evaluation of architectural excellence. His dedication extends to regular lectures worldwide, offering a platform to disseminate the practice's innovative work and research, contributing to a broader discourse in the international architectural community.

Smith's articulate writings not only enrich architectural dialogues in New Zealand but also reflect his commitment to promoting excellence in design worldwide, as evidenced by his role as an esteemed judge in diverse international settings, where he actively shapes the trajectory of architectural innovation and recognition.

United States

Kushal Birari

Creative, Mother New York

Kushal Birari is a creative at Mother, one of the world’s most respected, independent creative companies.

Having worked in five prominent cities across three continents, he has made a significant impact through his art direction and design. He has left an indelible mark on numerous international brands, including OREO, MINI Cooper, Make in India, FIFA, Bosch, Instagram, and more. His recent noteworthy contribution to the OREO Pride campaign has garnered widespread attention, resonating with diverse communities globally and earning recognition through various national and international accolades. Birari excels in creative direction, advertising, ideas development, art direction, and creative strategy, showcasing a comprehensive skill set in the realm of visual communication and strategic brand development.

His proficiency in his role is evident through the impactful influence he has wielded on major international brands, demonstrating a keen understanding of art direction and design and His ability to resonate with diverse audiences.

Canada

Christina Kuo

Creative Director, KUUO LIVING

Christina Kuo, currently serving as the creative director at Kuuo Living, brings several years of valuable experience from her work in the hospitality and residential design sectors.

Kuo possesses a versatile understanding of various design styles, enabling her to tailor her approach to suit the specific needs of each project. Her creative acumen has allowed her to skillfully engage in a diverse range of exciting ventures. She is wondrously adept at crafting bespoke design strategies that align precisely with the distinctive demands and complexities of each project, all while meeting the preferences of her clients flawlessly.

Her diverse international experience offers a unique perspective to her work, encompassing all facets of hospitality projects from concept to implementation. Her multilingual skills and extensive design background make her a versatile and seasoned talent, with expertise spanning luxury hotels, resorts, spas, retail, restaurants, and high-end residential spaces.

United States

Chloe Fan

CEO and Co-founder, design with FRANK

Chloe Fan serves as the Co-founder and CEO of FRANK, an AI-driven design software that empowers users to effortlessly craft their dream homes through automated architectural drawings.

Fan takes the helm of the organization, shaping its strategic direction, managing various departments, and overseeing senior executives. She plays a key role in financial management, driving innovation, spearheading business development efforts, and fostering strong customer relationships.

Her graduation projects were exhibited in New York and Santiago de Chile. She also worked on major museum projects, including the Grand Canal Museum and the Tesoro di Dan Gennaro Museum, with her work displayed at the Museum of Modern Art in New York in 2018. In that year, she designed and unveiled a large-scale 3D printer at the Venice Architecture Biennale, including her invention, the "Instant Lounge," a real-time furniture 3D printer.

United States

Jiaru Lin

Senior Art Director, KMC Corp.

Jiaru Lin, serving as a Senior Art Director at KMC Corp. in New York, stands as a distinguished creative powerhouse with an impressive portfolio, having collaborated with renowned brands such as Tom Ford, Gucci, Louis Vuitton, Coach, ZARA, Balmain, Comme des Garçons, Maison Margiela, and many others.

Her design prowess has garnered global recognition, earning her prestigious accolades. Lin Jiaru holds an MS degree in Communications/Packaging Design from Pratt Institute in New York. Her diverse portfolio spans across various domains, encompassing art direction, product design, packaging design, graphic design, digital and social media design, visual merchandising, store design, jewelry design, and even teaching.

Beyond her multifaceted design expertise, she actively engages with sustainability, artificial intelligence, cryptocurrency, science, volunteering, global travel, and culinary exploration. Certified in the AI Products and Services program from MIT, Jiaru demonstrates an unwavering commitment to innovation. Her insatiable curiosity and zest for life deeply influence her creative approach.

Netherlands

Misak Terzibasiyan

Founder and Principal Architect, UArchitects

Misak Tersibasiyan is the founder and principal architect of UArchitects (Urban Design and Architects).

UArchitects is a global firm that embraces a diverse team of various nationalities. The founder, having studied at the Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands, gained experience with several international architectural firms prior to establishing the company in the culturally and architecturally renowned city of Eindhoven.

Terzibasiyan's professional and personal pursuits are deeply rooted in a global perspective and the exploration of cultural motifs, a focus influenced by his own ethnic heritage, having been born in Helsinki. He has established himself as an esteemed individual in his domain, with a career marked by an international outlook and a dedication to incorporating cultural diversity into his work. His recognition in the field is a testament to his commitment to embracing and understanding the interplay of different cultures in his professional endeavors.

Thailand

Somchana Kangwarnjit

Executive Creative Director, Prompt Design

Somchana Kangwarnjit holds an industrial design degree from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. In 2007, he established Prompt Design, assisting both local and international clients in developing their brands and businesses through innovative strategies and design solutions.

Kangwarnjit plays a pivotal role in steering the creative vision and strategy for the agency. He leads a team of talented designers and strategists, inspiring them to push the boundaries of innovation and design excellence. Under his guidance, Prompt Design has become a powerhouse for creative solutions, setting industry standards and achieving client objectives with ground-breaking design executions.The clientele of Prompt Design spans notable companies such as Nestlé, Pfizer, CP, Singha Corporation, Kimberly-Clark, L’Oréal, Yuasa, and BJC, among others.

Frequently, he is asked to join as a committee or jury member in design contests and contributes as a guest columnist and lecturer at leading publishers and universities.

Singapore

Ronn Lee

Creative Partner, BEAMY

Ronn Lee is a versatile brand and design expert with two decades of experience in the field, spearheading projects in concept development, branding, graphic design, interactive media, and product innovation across various sectors.

As the co-founder and creative lead of BEAMY, a creative and branding agency with its main office in Shanghai and additional locations in Singapore and New York, she has showcased remarkable initiative. Her journey took her from Singapore to Shanghai, where she was inspired by the growing demand for creative and branding services in China, leading to the establishment of BEAMY. Before her time in Shanghai, Ronn served as an Art Director in Tokyo. Her professional path through Singapore, Japan, and China has provided her with a deep understanding of diverse work cultures and design approaches.

Ronn's contributions to the field have been recognized with over 100 international awards for design and creativity.

United Kingdom

Mark Turner

Creative Director and Founder, Kre8ive Partners

Mark Turner, an industry veteran with a wealth of experience exceeding 30 years, holds the role of Founder and Creative Director at Kre8ive Partners.

As the leader of his creative team, Turner contributes an extensive wealth of experience in Art Direction, Typography, Point of Sale (POS) Design, Web Design, and Print. His established track record in the Graphic Design industry has had a pronounced influence, particularly within the retail and private sectors. His expertise in these domains has been instrumental in shaping the creative direction of his organisation.

With an ardent dedication to innovative and forward-thinking design, his passion for the field extends across all aspects of the creative process, but his deepest affection lies with packaging design, where he has consistently demonstrated a penchant for pushing the boundaries and crafting imaginative. This commitment to innovative design for packaging, has been the driving force behind Mark's contributions to the design industry.

Malaysia

Jae Leong

Judging Committee Chairperson, International Awards Associate (IAA)

Jae Leong is the accomplished chairperson of IAA’s extensive judging committee.

As the chairperson, Leong assumes a leadership role, guiding the organization and spearheading initiatives to uphold quality and creative excellence in critical areas such as design, creative advertising, marketing communications, video production, and business. Additionally, she serves as a key award representative at IAA, consistently demonstrating success in overseeing assessments throughout her career.

She prioritizes the coordination of strategic arrangements among various jury panels, establishing herself as a standout figure in the industry. Demonstrating a keen sense of management, Leong has executed her role with precision, ensuring that each participant receives fair evaluations and unbiased assessments, underscoring the significance of integrity in maintaining the credibility of the judging outcomes. Furthermore, her collaboration with professionals globally has positioned her at the forefront of specialization, enabling the development of exceptional communication and relationship management skills.

United States

Dmytro Lynnyk

Creative Director, Linnikov

As the creative director of Branding agency Linnikov, I lead and manage multidisciplinary teams to craft solutions for clients through conceptual designs rooted in strategy and rationale derived from key business and user needs. With 20+ years of experience in branding and designing solutions for B2B and B2C clients across more than 60 countries worldwide, I have a deep knowledge and understanding of the audience's mentality and the market's characteristics.

My core competencies include spearheading and managing content strategy, developing internal marketing campaigns, analyzing brand tracking and market trends, improving the design of Breakthrough Brands report, guiding creative teams, creating and presenting ideas, and collaborating with leadership and hiring. I am also a mentor and talent grower, a laureate and winner of multiple international competitions in branding and design, a jury member of prestigious design awards, and a speaker at many conferences, congresses, and seminars. My mission is to address business goals and companies' growth with effective solutions that cut through ambiguity and drive a culture of optimism and opportunity.

China

Zhou Wen Jun

Founder and Design Director, 524 STUDIO ® / NGISED.DESIGN ® / Zhou Wen Jun ® Design

Zhou Wen Jun is a renowned designer and an esteemed global awards adjudicator with over two decades of professional expertise in the realms of architecture, creativity, and design. He firmly upholds a design philosophy encapsulated by the mantra: "Everything is Design, Design for Everything! Better Design equals Better Life, Better Quality & Better Business."

Jun plays a pivotal role in shaping the creative direction and vision of his endeavors. His extensive experience spanning over 20 years in the architecture, creative, and design industry positions him as a guiding force in driving innovative and impactful design solutions. He instills a sense of purpose and excellence into every aspect of his work, ultimately contributing to better quality, enhanced lifestyles, and prosperous businesses.

Jun’s remarkable contributions to the field have garnered numerous prestigious international awards and accolades, showcasing his exceptional talent and dedication. His distinguished achievements include, but are not limited to, the following:

Turkey

Katia Levit

Senior Sales and Marketing Director, Aesthetic Solutions

Katia Levit holds the esteemed position of Senior Sales and Marketing Director at Aesthetic Solutions, showcasing her reputable standing in the company.

She plays a pivotal part in overseeing and managing the sales and marketing strategies of the company's products in the field of aesthetic medicine. Levit likely spearheads initiatives to promote the company's cutting-edge medical technologies, collaborating with sales teams to drive revenue and market share. Her responsibilities include developing and executing comprehensive marketing plans, identifying new business opportunities, and fostering relationships with key stakeholders.

Levit's position underscores her leadership in navigating the competitive landscape of aesthetic medical technology and ensuring the company's continued growth and success in the market. She is recognized as an amazing international speaker on various topics, including "Emotional Sales," "EQ via IQ," "Service in the luxury segment," "Employee and Customer Loyalty," and several others.

Taiwan

Tony Chen

Area Digital Marketing Manager - Hong Kong, Macau, Taiwan, InterContinental Kaohsiung

Tony Chen, serving as the Area Digital Marketing Manager for InterContinental Kaohsiung, brings over 8 years of experience in digital marketing, SEO, and SEO copywriting.

In his role, Chen oversees the hotel's digital marketing strategies across various platforms, both globally recognized and specific to his home country. He skillfully utilizes tools like Facebook Ads, Google Ads, YAHOO Native, GSC, GMB, My SQL, LINE Ads Platform, Google Big Query, and email marketing. His transition from previous digital marketing roles to the hospitality and tourism industry has enabled him to apply a broad spectrum of digital marketing techniques to enhance the hotel's online presence and customer engagement.

His expertise significantly contributes to maintaining the hotel's exceptional standards in customer service and revenue management, characterized by professional precision, adaptability, multilingual capabilities, and steadfast patience. His dedication is reflected in his seamless integration of vast digital marketing expertise with the unique demands of the hospitality industry.

China

Catherine Yu

Founder, CEO and Artistic Director, The Champarte Design Group

At the helm of The Champarte Design Group, Catherine Yu fulfills the roles of founder, CEO, and artistic director.

Her extensive background in interior design and soft decoration research, spanning more than ten years, equips her with a profound understanding of beauty within the context of modern discourse. Moreover, she possesses a talent for uncovering metaphors within art and culture. She utilizes design as a means to intricately and holistically express her perspective on life, employing distinct techniques to achieve a poetic and refined approach to contemporary spatial design.

She believes in honoring history and culture while infusing elements that cater to the needs and aesthetic preferences of contemporary individuals, a building or space can lead a vibrant, high-quality, and stylish existence. This approach ensures that the culture it embodies continues to thrive and evolve, rather than remaining stagnant in a mere corner of history.

United Kingdom

Pal Pang

Design Principal, ANOTHER DESIGN

Pal Pang is the design principal of ANOTHER DESIGN, an interior architect and artist based in London, United Kingdom.

His expertise in blending functionality with aesthetic appeal has been instrumental in establishing the firm's reputation for innovative and user-centered design solutions. Pang is known for his ability to foster a collaborative environment, encouraging his team to explore ideas while maintaining a focus on practicality and sustainability. His design philosophy emphasizes the importance of understanding the end-user's needs, which is reflected in the firm's diverse portfolio of successful projects. DESIGN has become synonymous with designs that are not only visually striking but also intuitively serve their intended purpose.

His company has completed projects in Hong Kong and the United Kingdom. Pang is also a fellow of the Royal Society for Arts, Manufactures and Commerce. He is also a musician and has recently released music albums.

United States

Yimeng Teng

Project Architect, Ro Rockett Design

Yimeng Teng, holding a license in architecture and a membership with the AIA, is based in the United States. She is presently employed by Ro | Rockett Design in Los Angeles, where she contributes as a project architect, focusing on extensive residential developments.

She completed her undergraduate studies in Highway and Bridge Engineering at Southeast University, and later earned her Master of Architecture from the University of Virginia in 2015. Teng has garnered multiple awards, with her projects gaining international exposure and media attention.

Her consistent dedication has not only earned her broad recognition but also continues to drive her to produce influential and thought-stirring work. Her dedication to architecture is demonstrated by her rigorous educational background, transitioning from highway and bridge engineering to mastering architectural design at the University of Virginia. Her passion for creating exceptional residential spaces is evident in her work where she brings innovative and thoughtful designs to life.

Romania

Mihaela Plesca

Founder, Neurodesign

Mihaela Plesca is the revolutionary founder of Neurodesign, an avant-garde image consulting agency specializing in assisting companies and individuals in creating and managing their brand image through innovative strategies.

Holding a Bachelor's degree in Engineering and Management in the tourism industry and acclaimed for her outstanding design achievements, she is an ideal judge for the luxury competition's accommodation, F&B, travel, and design categories. Her diverse background equips her to assess these aspects with a comprehensive and discerning perspective, ensuring that only the most exceptional and innovative ideas are recognized and celebrated.

As a visionary in the design industry, she is dedicated to fostering excellence and establishing new benchmarks in the realm of luxury. Plesca's passion lies in blending engineering acumen with creative design, revolutionizing how brands present themselves in the luxury market. Her enthusiasm is evident in her commitment to elevating aesthetic standards and pioneering innovative image consulting strategies.

United Kingdom

Ewald Damen

Creative Director, Virgile + Partners

Ewald Damen embarked on his career at the Amsterdam-based firm Merkx & Girod, where he had the opportunity to contribute to exciting ventures including the Van Gogh Museum, the governmental advisory body "Raad Van State," the Amsterdam headquarters of Ernst & Young, and overseeing the design of four fresh outlets for the Dutch department store de Bijenkorf.

As a pivotal member of the team, Damen now takes the helm in prestigious undertakings like the opulent DLT department store in St Petersburg, the renovation of the Crowne Plaza hotel in Belgrade, Ritz Carlton in Bangalore, the forthcoming Andaz Hyatt hotel in Delhi, Address Boulevard in Dubai, and the novel Harrods Rooms of Luxury. Additionally, he is involved in shaping the new Harvey Nichols concepts for Birmingham and the flagship store in London.

Upon relocating to London, he assumed the role of lead designer for upscale residential projects, such as Pan Peninsula, Baltimore Wharf, and the Tapestry Building.

Egypt

Haitham

Public Speaker, Career Coach and Executive Coach,

Haitham is a multifaceted professional who excels in various roles. As a public speaker, career coach, executive coach, and time management coach, he is dedicated to inspiring and guiding individuals toward personal and professional excellence.

With a profound commitment to personal development and achievement, Haitham leverages his expertise to provide tailored guidance and mentorship to those he works with. As a public speaker, he captivates audiences with his insights, while as a career and executive coach, he offers invaluable strategies to help individuals excel in their professional endeavors. His role as a time management coach equips people with the skills and tools to optimize their productivity, ensuring a balanced and successful life.

His genuine commitment to helping people achieve their goals is reflected in the exceptional care and effort he puts into every coaching session, ensuring that individuals receive the best guidance to reach their full potential.