PROJECT LEADER
Mark Gil
Mark is a licensed and registered architect from the Philippines who has experience in commercial malls and landed residential houses. After working as a Project Architect in the Philippines, he pursued a career as a senior interior designer in Singapore at a design and build company. His technical expertise in architecture and design has allowed him to contribute to all phases of residential and some commercial design projects in Singapore, including design, cost and project management.
Mark has become an accomplished professional with ten years of experience in the industry. He spent four years as a project architect in the Philippines, followed by six years as an interior designer in Singapore.
What do you do to relax?
I love to relax and recharge by being in nature. Walking and running in natural areas with trees, rivers, and rocks is a great way to both exercise and clear my mind. The fresh air, sound of running water, and feel of the earth beneath my feet help me escape from everyday stresses and find peace. Whether it's a forest trail or a riverside path, spending time in nature always leaves me feeling refreshed and rejuvenated.
What’s top on your Bucket’s List?
Visiting Shinobi-zato in Japan is a bit of a childish dream, but it's still at the very top of my list!
What does work mean to you?
In my view, work represents an opportunity for me to exhibit self-management skills amid high-pressure situations. It affords me the chance to push my boundaries and test my limits with respect to my personality, attitude, and emotions. While work can be challenging, it's also a chance to develop skills for taking care of my own well-being and making the experience more fulfilling. By taking responsibility for my own approach to work, I can turn challenges into chances for growth and fulfilment
Why do you do what you do?
I'm grateful to be working in interior and architectural design, my dream industry. While it can be tiring, a few days of rest recharges me, and I'm ready to go again. Pursuing my passion as my career is a privilege, and I'm eager to continue growing in this field.
Where is your next travel destination?
European countries for sure! Rome, Italy is one of my top destinations due to the abundance of beautiful structures to explore in the area, as well as its rich history of architecture.
If you have unlimited resources, which world problem would you wrestle with?
I would prioritise tackling the issue of pollution and environmental degradation in developing countries. While Singapore has effective environmental policies, many third-world countries struggle with pollution and environmental destruction. Clean air and nature are essential to our well-being, and implementing sustainable policies can create a cleaner, safer environment for generations to come.
What's a good film/series/book/podcast to recommend?
I have a few recommendations in mind, but recently I've been highly engrossed in the YouTube channel of Ali Abdaal. He is a highly accomplished doctor who shares his knowledge and expertise on productivity, learning, and self-improvement. His videos are not only informative but also highly engaging and entertaining, making them an excellent resource for anyone looking to enhance their personal and professional growth.
If you could only eat this for the rest of your life- what would it be?
Seafood!
Why is good design important to you ?
Good design has the power to attract, motivate, and inspire people. It can make people feel at home and even feel loved. Remember the feeling of being in a place you love for the first time? That feeling of happiness and motivation is what good design should evoke. It should be tailored and bespoke to the person experiencing it, which is why it is so important.
Good design can make a lasting impact on people and enhance their overall experience, whether it be in a physical space or currently we have digital space.
Describe the best experience that comes to mind.
The day I received the news that I passed the Architects board examination. It was a stressful and exhausted week for me for rushing a lot of things at work. Suddenly, my phone lit up with a message from a friend, and as I read the words "Congratulations, you passed!" I felt an overwhelming rush of emotion.
I immediately ran to the nearest bathroom and let out the loudest scream of joy I could muster. It was the ultimate reward for all the hard work and effort I had put into my studies, and it felt like the beginning of a whole new chapter in my life.