Groundwork

Manfred Yuen & Groundwork: Bridging Visionary Design and Social Impact

Manfred Yuen, founder of the multidisciplinary architecture practice Groundwork, operates across London, Hong Kong, and Shenzhen. An architect of distinguished pedigree, Yuen was trained at the University of Hong Kong and Cambridge University. Before establishing his own firm, he sharpened his craft at Coop Himmelb(l)au in Vienna, where he served as a key lead for their expansive China operations.

Groundwork’s Philosophy:

Groundwork is defined by its seamless integration of rigorous social research with design innovation. The firm is celebrated for its ability to navigate complex urban landscapes through architecture, exhibitions, and global urban interventions. Notable projects include:

* The "Hawker Stalls" Initiative: A critical project focused on preserving Hong Kong’s unique street-vending culture.
* Governmental Guidelines: Developing strategic frameworks for public play-spaces.
* Diverse Portfolio: A wide-reaching body of work that spans large-scale architecture to intimate, site-specific installations.

Accolades and Recognition:

Yuen’s influence on the field has been recognized globally through several prestigious honors:

40-under-40 Emerging Chinese Architects 2019 Greater China
Spirit of Hong Kong Award 2013 Hong Kong
40-under-40 Design Talents 2011 Perspective (Asia)
The Next Generation Architects 2010 Italy

In addition to his design work, Yuen is a prominent voice in the architectural community, having been invited to deliver TEDx talks in Shenzhen in both 2019 and 2025.

Fiona Bao (鮑靜) is a Partner at Groundwork Architects & Associates and a PRC Class 1 Registered Architect. With over 15 years of industry expertise, she has held senior leadership roles, including Design Director at Road King Properties and Shenzhen Cube Architecture. Her diverse portfolio spans high-end residential skyscrapers, such as Shenzhen’s SKYEY Maison and Qianhai No.1, to innovative public spaces like the Shenzhen-Hong Kong Women and Children Community Center.

A specialist in both architectural transformation and interior branding, Fiona has led high-profile projects for the OCT Group, Kerry Properties, and the Shenzhen government. Her work is globally recognized, earning her a spot in Perspective’s “40 Under 40” (2023). Her accolades include a Gold A&D Award, a DFA Bronze Award, and multiple finalist placements at the World Architecture Festival (WAF). Fiona continues to bridge the gap between commercial development and socially-conscious urban design.