Behind the Brand is about getting to know the real design enthusiasts who work across our industry. Marcel Zalloua is a cross-sector pioneer in the design and technology landscape. He’s spent over two decades in commercial design and construction and, in 2004, co-founded Valmont. That commercial design and construction business has now evolved to become GEYER VALMONT, following the strategic acquisition of globally recognised interior design firm Geyer.

Please tell us a bit about yourself and Geyer Valmont.

I am the CEO of GEYER VALMONT, a leader in workplace solutions and end-to-end interior services across APAC. We brought two exceptional businesses – Geyer and Valmont – together in 2020, combining expertise and resources to deliver truly industry leading work.

Fast forward to 2025, we’re experiencing new ripples of change across the business. We’re embracing cutting edge technology transforming our Singapore office into an innovation-led design studio and global hub.

How would you describe your leadership style?

My leadership philosophy is centred on empowering our people. I set the goals and provide the resources, then trust our experts to deliver the signature GEYER VALMONT experience for our clients. I don’t believe in micromanagement, but I do stay ten steps ahead. For me this means staying across the latest in technology and emerging trends – not just as a passing interest, but as a fundamental tool to give my teams the competitive edge.

I’ve long said that in today’s world, technology isn’t just a nice-to-have; it’s essential for every business. I challenge our teams to constantly be on the lookout for innovative ways that we can make the design and construction process more seamless, creative and effective for our clients.

How does GEYER VALMONT utilise technology in design?

Our approach to design is based on a deep understanding of a client’s vision and requirements, then delivering outcomes that exceed expectations. We always operate within the parameters our clients set, and whether they’re strict and demanding or loose and flexible, we find a way to create exactly what the client needs.

Technology has essentially allowed us the additional space and time to focus where it matters; navigating our client’s challenges and bringing their vision to life both now and into the future.

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In your opinion, what does the future of design look like?

The design sector stands at a crossroads that will fundamentally reshape the industry. Technologies are emerging that present enormous opportunities, but also unprecedented change for those businesses brave enough to embrace them. It will be a dynamic period as firms experiment and develop different ways of achieving their design goals and redefining what’s possible.

Our approach to technology is simple: it’s a tool that can improve efficiencies and ultimately save time. The time saved can be invested into better understanding our client needs, creating better practical solutions for now, as well as delivering for their future.

What partnerships and projects are you most proud of?

We are lucky to work with such a diverse range of clients across the globe. We have a series of long-term partnerships with Centuria, Colliers and Citi that date back decades. Our role working with these clients includes providing ongoing property strategy, design consultancy and project delivery.

In terms of projects, recently we worked on an exciting pair of clients in the same precinct, the HKRI Taikoo Hui in Shanghai.

For TERRA, we redesigned a previously vacant floor into a vibrant, multi-faceted destination. The result was an aesthetic club-lounge, an all-day food and beverage offerings, six uniquely themed meeting rooms drawing inspiration from the Chinese elements, and a highly adaptable ‘forum’ event space.

We also worked with Authentic Brands Group on a beautiful 1,800-square-metre space at the heart of a bustling complex of retail, hospitality and workplaces, serving as a strategic point of connection, not just a headquarters. By aligning global brand identities with local culture, the team created a multifunctional, modular space that seamlessly transitions between workplace, showroom and event venue.

GEYER VALMONT
geyervalmont.com