China, an exciting canvas for hospitality design (2)

"I spent half my time working with clients in Asia and I became inspired by the caliber of design firms here," he says. "I chose Bangkok as the perfect city to set up my own firm, because I see it as an Asian design hub when it comes to resorts and hotels."

Nagata feels that Blink's edge over its competitors is its approach to each project: He aims to create a property that reflects his client and the location.

"We collaborate with our clients across different disciplines, having a strong understanding from both ends of the table," he says. "Whether we are hired as interior designers or architects, we are often sought out to lead the design team to provide a clear concept and vision for the project."

Nagata stresses that good design is instrumental to the success of a hotel, and it is a point that most of his clients understand, too.

"While one cannot ignore functionality and operational efficiency, there is too much competition today for a poorly designed hotel to succeed," he says. "Guests are highly driven to stay in places that are enticing and aesthetically pleasing."

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