Nipek was established in Singapore in 2013 by Japanese lighting designers Shigeki and Natsuko, both mentored by Kaoru Mende, a pioneer of contemporary architectural lighting design in Japan.

​

The studio’s early work began with the development of media façade content for the I.M. Pei–designed OCBC Centre in Singapore, at a time when advances in LED technology were reshaping the relationship between architecture, light, and digital media. This experience informed Nipek’s continuing interest in lighting as an evolving spatial and urban medium rather than a purely technical layer of architecture.

​

Soon after its establishment, the studio became involved in the long-term renovation of The Ritz-Carlton Millenia, Singapore, commissioned by Pontiac Land Group and developed in close collaboration with interior designer Tony Chi. The project marked the beginning of Nipek’s ongoing engagement in hospitality environments and complex architectural projects developed by internationally recognized design teams.

​

In 2015, Nipek was appointed as lighting designer for the redevelopment of Funan by CapitaLand, one of Asia’s leading real estate developers. The project explored new possibilities for lighting within mixed-use urban environments, positioning light as a contributor to experience and public engagement. Since then, the studio has continued to collaborate on a number of CapitaLand’s key developments in Singapore, contributing to the city’s evolving urban landscape.

​

In 2020, Nipek expanded its practice to Japan, establishing a second base in Sapporo in response to increasing international collaboration and changing modes of working. The studio relocated in 2022 to Higashikawa, Hokkaido, operating from a satellite office designed by Kengo Kuma & Associates. Working between Singapore and Japan allows the practice to engage simultaneously with dense urban contexts and environments closely connected to nature.

​

Since establishing its presence in Japan, Nipek’s work has expanded across the country, encompassing hospitality, resort developments, and public environments. At the same time, the Singapore studio has continued to grow, supporting involvement in large-scale urban and mixed-use developments across the region.

​

The practice maintains an active role within the international hospitality sector, contributing to luxury hotel and resort projects developed in collaboration with leading global operators and design teams. Long-term engagements include projects with Four Seasons, alongside new collaborations with Aman Resorts beginning in 2025. Multiple developments are currently underway across different regions as part of multidisciplinary international teams.

​

Today, Nipek works across architecture, urban environments, and landscape contexts, collaborating with architects, designers, and developers worldwide. Rather than pursuing lighting as a visual statement, the studio approaches light as a means of shaping atmosphere, perception, and the lasting character of place.