Bordered by the Mekong River and shaped by centuries ofcultural heritage,Vientiane possesses an architectural character unlike any other in Southeast Asia.

Here, tradition and modernity coexist, offering a unique context for contemporary urban development.

Recently, the 2026 IDD

The Philosopher’s Hall -Leading Innovation Exploration Tour arrived in Laos, bringing together some of China’s most influential figures in architecture and interior design,

The delegation was led by Chen Lin, Chairman of the 2025 IDD· The Philosopher’s Hall,

alongside Co-Chairmen Zhu Xiaoming and Cui Shu. Joining team were annual members Zheng Hong, Guan Jie, Lei Bilin, Huang Yongjie, and Liang Jie, together with He Wenguang CEO of Guangzhou Design Week and representative of the IDD· The Philosopher’s Hall Organizing Committee.

The delegation also include Pan Shao, Co-Founder of RARA Customized Home Furnishings, the event’s Chief Strategic Partner, and Deng Chen, Chief Brand Officer of Zehnder Switzerland,

the event’s Special Supporting Partner.

Gathering leading designers and industry pioneers, the tour offered opportunity to exploreVientiane’s urban landscape, distinctive architecture, and cultural heritage while exchanging ,

Perspectives on the future of design and the evolving role of cities.

As the Chief Interior Designer of the Lao Center Project, Zhu Xiaoming regarded the project as one of the most significant destinations of this year’s exploration tour.

Accompanied by his design team, he conducted a comprehensive site inspection, reviewing the project’s architectural composition, spatial organisation, interior detailing, and overall user experience.Drawing upon the site’s unique context and Laos’ cultural identity, the team engaged in in-depth discussions on how design can meaningfully respond to both place and people.

Situated in the heart of Vientiane’s emerging urban core along the Mekong River, Lao Center is one of Qiancheng Group’s landmark mixed-use developments.Rising to an approximate height of 155 meters, the project brings together luxury serviced apartments, executive residences, panoramic-view residences, sky lounges, and a carefully curated mix of lifestyle amenities, creating an integrated destination for living, hospitality, business, and leisure.

The project’s interior design is led by Zhu Xiaoming and his team, whose design philosophy places people at the centre of every decision. From functional planning and spatial sequencing to residential layouts, material selection, and interior detailing, every aspect has been carefully considered to establish a harmonious dialogue between contemporary aesthetics, everyday comfort, and the cultural spirit of Vientiane.

For Zhu Xiaoming and his team, returning to the project represented far more than a routine site visit. It was an opportunity to witness the transformation of design into reality, evaluate the effectiveness of earlier design decisions, and reflect on the project’s continuous evolution from concept to completion.

Walking through the construction site, the delegation experienced firsthand the scale of the architecture and the evolving relationship between space, structure, and the surrounding urban environment.

As construction progress steadily, the Main Tower continues its ascent. Floor by floor, its architectural form is becoming increasingly defined, while the original design vision is taking tangible shape.

From concept to construction.

From architectural form to everyday experience.

Every on-site discussion, every technical review, and every design refinement represents

another step towards delivering a project of enduring quality,

Looking ahead, Lao Center will bring together architectural excellence, functional sophistication,

and a people-centred approach to design. Rising along the banks of the Mekong River,

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It is set to become a distinctive destination that contributes to the continuing transformation of Vientiane’s urban landscape while creating lasting value for the city and its future generations.