DNA was established in 2000, out of a partnership of four Kuching-based architects with the aim of setting up a research and design based practice.
Starting initially with interior fit outs and private homes, their projects have grown to include larger and more complex programmes such as the recently completed 200-room Everly Hotel in Sibu, hyper-markets, several churches and a mosque. Likewise the studio has grown from the 4 partners to 20 people comprising of 10 architects, architectural technicians (8), administrative staff (2) and numerous architectural trainees.
DNA has a continuing programme that allows young students and trainees to learn about the architectural business; through apprenticeship in the studio. This initiative arises partly out of the will to contribute towards the local community; and partly as a quest for the architects to better themselves through the teaching of others.
In spite of the similarity in the partners' ages, training (3 of them trained in Australia in the 80s with one from the AA) and common corporate vision; there is room for diversity in their design solutions. At times, the office behaves like four separate studios; with the partners forming brief alliances with the supporting architects to work on projects. These alliances appear to reinforce energy with which DNA pursue their work. Their earlier foundation in designing and building houses has instilled an investigative and exploratory approach in their later projects; often resulting in better crafted buildings.
Common design concerns that prevail in DNA's work are; appropriate response to climate, context and culture; adept massing and crafting of spaces; and the tactile use and assembly of building materials.
Recently, there has been a conscious and constant distillation of the design solution - to achieve more with less.