William Kai Liu/biography
William Kai Liu/biography
BA(hons) M(Arch) PG Dip RIBA ARB FRSA
William Liu is a RIBA Chartered Architect, founder of William Kai Liu Studio, and a member of a design review panel, currently based in London. Born and raised in Worcestershire, William developed a strong early interest in fine art and history during his school years, an influence that would later shape his architectural thinking and design approach.
He pursued this interest academically by obtaining an Architecture bachelors degree in Leeds, followed by a Master’s degree and Postgraduate Diploma in Architecture from the University of Westminster.
During his formative professional years, William embarked on an influential journey to the Far East, working in Hong Kong, one of the world’s most densely populated urban environments. There, he gained experience on urban renewal schemes, large‑scale housing estates, and commercial developments, deepening his understanding of density, infrastructure, and the social dimensions of architecture. Time spent working in the United States further enriched his outlook, particularly through engagement with the cultural diversity and civic qualities of the American public realm.
Travel plays a central role in William’s design philosophy. His explorations across the Americas, the Middle East, and Australia, provided continual sources of inspiration. He actively documents these experiences, recording observations of place, culture, and environment to inform and enrich his future work.
William is strongly committed to community engagement and public service. He currently serves as an elected Conservator for Wimbledon and Putney Commons, contributes as a mentor for The Prince’s Trust, supporting vulnerable young people in shaping positive futures, and has previously served as a school governor within his local community.
Earlier in his career, William served in the British Army, an experience that instilled in him a strong appreciation for teamwork, discipline, and collective responsibility, principles that continue to inform his professional practice.
Having worked across a range of architectural practices and contractor‑led environments, William is deeply engaged with contemporary societal challenges, integrating sustainable, practical, and innovative design strategies to respond to the needs of modern living.
William currently works for an international contractor alongside running his own independent studio, offering architectural design services and continuing to build a body of work that reflects his commitment to thoughtful, socially responsive architecture.