After a glittering digital gala, the INDE.Awards winners have now been announced and receiving the accolade of The Prodigy this year is Xi Chen from China.

The Prodigy recognises the outstanding achievements of an architect or designer who is at the beginning of their journey to make a name for themself in their chosen profession, and as a young architect, Xi Chen is certainly making his presence felt.

As sponsor of The Prodigy category, Milliken is passionate about supporting the architecture and design community and, through the INDE.Awards, the next generation of designers making their mark in the industry.

Shaneel Deo, Managing Director, Milliken-Ontera commented, ”The INDE.Awards has been a great platform to connect with the industry and support the impressive work in design across our region. We are proud of our association with the INDE.Awards and the recognition it provides the design community. It is amazing to see the inspiration and best practice in use from different regions that contribute positively to the industry.

It takes a leader to recognise another, and Milliken-Ontera is ever mindful of being at the forefront of innovation and best practice just as Xi Chen is striving to produce fine design.

Xi Chen established his practice, Atelier XI, after returning to his homeland China having worked in Copenhagen and New York for some years. The studio focuses on public and cultural projects of various scales but Chen hopes to expand and explore other project types in the near future. As a thoughtful and passionate practitioner, Chen has a hope and vision for the future – that the architecture of the region will respond to the particular cultural and climactic conditions, wherever an architect may reside.

With thoughts of the future, Chen is in good company with those at Milliken-Ontera, who inspire and support new talent that is on the rise.

Deo further elaborated, ”Millken-Ontera is committed to supporting the next generation of design leaders, and The Prodigy award is a great way to recognise the future talent in our industry. The recognition and exposure to the industry in the early stages of their career is important. It provides a platform for expression and encouragement for forward thinkers to continue to create a positive impact.”

And for all the excitement of the INDE.Awards catch up on the gala event here.