SIDA Icon Award

The Gilded Artelier

The Gilded Atelier is a refined interpretation of contemporary classic living, where timeless elegance meets modern functionality. Designed for discerning homeowners who appreciate understated luxury, the residence transforms a conventional condominium into a sophisticated sanctuary that reflects both personality and lifestyle.

The design language is anchored by clean architectural lines, simplified wainscoting, and a carefully curated palette of warm neutrals, charcoal tones, black timber finishes, and subtle matte gold accents. Rather than relying on excessive ornamentation, the project embraces restraint, allowing proportion, craftsmanship, and materiality to create a quiet sense of luxury.

Every space has been meticulously planned to maximise functionality while maintaining visual harmony. Bespoke cabinetry and custom-designed furniture are seamlessly integrated into the architecture, ensuring every element serves a purpose without compromising aesthetics. Innovative space-planning solutions, including concealed storage, sliding aluminium louvred doors, and elegant folding partitions, provide flexibility while preserving the openness of the home.

Lighting plays a defining role throughout the residence. Layered ambient illumination, concealed cove lighting, and carefully positioned feature lighting accentuate architectural details, enriching the spatial experience while creating a warm, welcoming atmosphere that transitions effortlessly from day to evening.

The master suite embodies comfort and sophistication, featuring elegant wainscoting, a curated reading corner with an upholstered armchair, and bespoke furnishings that evoke the ambience of a luxury boutique hotel while retaining the warmth of a personal retreat. Throughout the home, specially curated artworks—including pieces from the owners’ private collection—add depth, authenticity, and emotional resonance to the interiors.

More than an exercise in aesthetics, The Gilded Atelier is a celebration of enduring design. It demonstrates how contemporary classic principles can be reinterpreted through clarity, craftsmanship, and thoughtful restraint, resulting in a home that is elegant, deeply personal, and timeless in its appeal.

The Contemporary Indochine Sanctuary

This 1,292 sq ft three-bedroom condominium at Laguna88 has been meticulously reimagined into a Contemporary IndoChine Sanctuary, seamlessly blending modern luxury with rich oriental influences. Every inch of this home was thoughtfully overhauled and reconfigured to suit the owner's refined lifestyle, resulting in a space that is as intimate as it is sophisticated.

A striking foundation of black wood grain laminate defines the carpentry and panelling throughout, setting a dramatic yet elegant tone. Complementing this, drop cove ceiling details with warm indirect lighting amplify the layered ambience. Bespoke wallcoverings adorn the living and dining feature walls, enhancing the tactile experience. In the living area, a custom rug and plush swivel armchairs create a cosy, inviting environment perfect for intimate gatherings and relaxed entertainment.

The living space effortlessly connects to the kitchen through a chic breakfast counter. Here, gold trims on sleek cabinetry, brass handle detailing, and a marble mosaic backsplash form a sophisticated culinary setting, marrying functionality with artful design.

Grand double doors lead into the master suite, transformed by combining two original bedrooms into a lavish retreat. It now houses a spacious walk-in wardrobe, a luxurious round daybed for lounging, and a stunning full-length custom gold rustic mirror that serves as a dramatic headboard feature. Aluminium sliding louvred panels replace typical curtains, offering a refined solution for privacy and light control.

The master bathroom continues the statement aesthetic with bold patterned tiles paired with porcelain mosaics, creating a visually striking yet balanced retreat. Throughout the home, curated oriental artwork and accessories inject character and authenticity, reinforcing the IndoChine narrative.

The guest room maintains harmony with a convertible daybed flanked by balanced displays, perfect for both visitors and quiet moments. Every design detail in this sanctuary is executed with meticulous care, epitomising modern oriental sophistication.

JOvell Contemporary Colonial Chic

This 3-bedroom ground floor condo at The Jovell exemplifies Contemporary Colonial Chic, blending timeless colonial charm with modern sophistication and a touch of resort living. The design transforms every corner into a curated experience, reflecting chic style and personal stories.

To embrace the lush surroundings, the dining area was strategically relocated to the balcony. Framed by vibrant flora and overlooking the pool, it offers a daily tropical retreat, where meals feel like a luxurious holiday indulgence.

Inside, the living room stands out with its signature black and white striped colonial wallcovering, creating a distinctive, modern colonial ambience. Gold accents on wall lights, table lamps, stools, and accessories heighten the glam quotient, balancing heritage elegance with contemporary flair. A custom-designed sofa and armchairs with unique silhouettes anchor the space atop a large geometric rug, crafting a sophisticated yet welcoming lounge. A display cabinet thoughtfully exhibits the clients' frequent travel memorabilia, weaving their journeys into the home's narrative. Hidden within the design, a large concealed projector screen elegantly drops down in front of the credenza, seamlessly transforming the area into an entertainment hub.

The master suite is a dramatic retreat, created by merging two bedrooms into one expansive haven. Entirely enveloped in black with warm wood laminate accents on the wardrobe and bed frame, it exudes moody sophistication. A floral artwork feature wall beside the bed becomes the restful focal point, while a discreet projector screen sets the stage for an ultimate in-bed theatre experience. A cosy study table completes this indulgent bachelor pad.

Meanwhile, the parents' bedroom embraces a Hamptons-inspired aesthetic, with rattan, cotton, and hemp soft furnishings adding relaxed elegance. Its private balcony, furnished with inviting outdoor seating, offers serene poolside views — the perfect spot for cool, peaceful evenings. This home is a refined expression of contemporary colonial luxury, tailored for stylish living.

Contemporary Oriental Oasis

This newly TOP luxury apartment at CDL's Irwell Hill Residences embodies a refined interpretation of an Oriental sanctuary — a Contemporary Oriental Oasis that seamlessly merges understated modern luxury with timeless Asian elegance.

The design concept revolves around subtle Oriental cues woven into a sophisticated contemporary canvas. A striking highlight is the living room's feature wall adorned with special custom-framed plates from the Yong Zheng era (1723-1735 A.D.), lending an authentic historical accent that anchors the home's narrative. The owners' personal collection of art pieces and travel memorabilia is thoughtfully curated and displayed throughout the apartment, adding layers of meaningful stories and cultural texture.

In the living space, a custom-designed curved sofa paired with an ottoman rests on an oversized rug, creating an inviting conversational zone. The TV cabinet was strategically relocated from its developer-provided location to replace an existing storage unit, ingeniously enlarging the spatial perception and enabling optimal viewing angles from all seating. A carefully placed armchair and footstool extend this entertainment hub, maximising functionality without clutter.

Throughout the apartment, subtle gold hardware featuring delicate Oriental motifs punctuates the contemporary built-ins, lending a refined touch that ties the theme together. The corridor transforms into a personal gallery, showcasing evocative artworks from the owners' travels, making every passage a journey.

The multi-functional study room doubles as a work-from-home retreat, elevated by a dramatic 3D wallcovering from ARTE that adds depth and tactile luxury. Meanwhile, the entertainment room flexes as a guest sanctuary with a plush sofa bed.

In the master bedroom, textured wallcoverings and a half-height headboard set the stage for restful elegance, flanked by sleek bedside lights that reinterpret Oriental lantern forms. Together, these thoughtful design interventions craft a tranquil yet sophisticated haven — a modern Oriental oasis harmoniously tailored to contemporary living.

Established in Singapore in 1999, Spaceone Interior Design Consultancy was founded by Design Director Adrian Heng with a clear belief: exceptional interior design should be personal, purposeful and timeless. For 27 years, Spaceone has evolved as an independent, design-led practice specialising in bespoke residential interiors, custom furniture, FF&E procurement and project coordination.

From its beginning, Spaceone has remained personal and hands-on. Adrian is directly involved throughout every project, from the first conversation and concept to design development, material selection, bespoke furniture detailing, coordination and final completion. This continuity between designer, client and project is central to Spaceone’s identity and enables the practice to maintain a high level of consistency and accountability.

DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

Spaceone believes that a home should be an expression of the people who live in it, rather than a showcase of a trend or predetermined style. Adrian approaches each project by understanding the client’s personality, lifestyle, aspirations and needs before translating these qualities into space.

His design philosophy centres on balance: between beauty and functionality, contemporary expression and timelessness, luxury and restraint, as well as architectural form and human comfort. Every element is considered as part of a complete composition, from spatial planning and architectural detailing to furniture, lighting, materials, colour and craftsmanship.

The result is a diverse portfolio of residences that are individually tailored yet consistently refined. Whether working on a contemporary condominium, a sophisticated landed residence or an interior inspired by cultural and heritage references, Spaceone seeks to create environments with character, longevity and emotional relevance.

DESIGN EXCELLENCE

A defining quality of Spaceone is Adrian’s direct involvement in the creative process. While technology has transformed the interior design industry, he continues to value the discipline of hand-drawn conceptual sketches and technical drawings. For him, design begins with observation, proportion, imagination and conversation, before ideas are translated into detailed drawings and production.

This hands-on approach extends beyond concept creation. Spaceone brings together design, bespoke furniture, material selection, FF&E sourcing, procurement and project coordination, allowing design intent to remain coherent from the initial idea through to execution.

Adrian believes that true luxury is not simply determined by the price of materials. It is found in proportion, craftsmanship, precision, detailing, comfort and the thoughtful relationship between every element. This philosophy has shaped Spaceone’s work for more than two decades and continues to distinguish the practice within Singapore’s residential design landscape.

ACHIEVEMENTS AND RECOGNITION

Spaceone’s design excellence has been recognised through numerous professional and design awards over the years. In 2026, the practice received Home & Décor’s Top of the Class Award for Best in Cultural/Heritage Design, marking the fourth time Adrian has received this recognition. Spaceone was also recognised by the MY FAV International Design Award for Best in Heritage Design for the third consecutive year.

These achievements reflect Adrian’s ability to interpret culture and heritage through contemporary design. Rather than reproducing traditional elements literally, his approach explores how heritage can be translated through modern planning, materials, craftsmanship, furniture and detailing, creating interiors that feel both authentic and relevant to contemporary living.

Beyond awards, the longevity of Spaceone itself is an achievement. Sustaining an independent design practice in Singapore since 1999, through changing economic conditions, market expectations and design trends, demonstrates resilience, adaptability and a consistent commitment to quality.

LEADERSHIP AND CONTRIBUTION

Adrian’s contribution extends beyond his own projects. He has been a Class 1 professional member of SIDAC since 2022 and is a professional member of the Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS). In recognition of his professional commitment, he was elected to the SIDS Council for the 2026–2028 term.

His involvement in the profession reflects his belief that interior designers have a responsibility not only to create beautiful spaces, but also to help elevate standards, encourage professionalism and contribute to the development of the industry.

Adrian also shares his knowledge with the wider public through digital platforms, including his YouTube channel, The Design Maven, as well as Instagram, TikTok and Facebook. Through completed projects and practical design discussions, he communicates the realities of interior design, renovation, planning, materials and execution.

He believes that better-informed homeowners lead to better projects. By making professional knowledge more accessible, he helps bridge the gap between designers and clients while encouraging greater appreciation for the value of professional interior design.

INNOVATION AND THE FUTURE

For Spaceone, innovation is not about following every new technology or trend. It is about finding better, more thoughtful solutions to the challenges of contemporary living.

Adrian draws on decades of practical experience while remaining open to new materials, fabrication techniques, hardware, technology and digital platforms. His projects often incorporate customised furniture, carefully engineered storage, innovative hardware and highly considered spatial solutions that balance aesthetics with everyday functionality.

Today, he is also exploring generative AI and emerging digital tools as opportunities to streamline design processes, improve efficiency and allow an independent practice to operate and communicate at an increasingly sophisticated level. His approach is to embrace innovation without losing the human judgement, creativity and craftsmanship that define good design.

A LASTING LEGACY

After 27 years, Spaceone remains intentionally independent and personal. Its strength lies not in its size, but in the depth of experience, consistency and responsibility behind every project.

The practice represents Adrian Heng’s continuing belief that interior design is ultimately about people: understanding how they live, what they value and how their environment can improve their everyday experience.

As SIDS celebrates its 10th anniversary and introduces the inaugural SIDA Icon Award, Spaceone’s journey reflects the qualities of an enduring design practice: longevity, originality, leadership, resilience, innovation, professional contribution and influence.

For Adrian, the goal has never been simply to design beautiful interiors. It has been to create meaningful homes, build lasting relationships, uphold the value of professional design and leave a contribution to the industry he has dedicated his life to.

After 27 years, that commitment remains at the heart of Spaceone Interior Design Consultancy and continues to shape its vision for the future.

THE SERENE EDIT

This residence explores the idea of refined restraint, creating an intimate yet sophisticated home through a carefully controlled neutral palette, sculptural forms and purposeful material selection. Rather than relying on ornamentation, the design allows proportion, texture, lighting and craftsmanship to define the character of the space.

A muted spectrum of warm neutrals establishes a calm and cohesive atmosphere throughout the interior. Clean architectural lines are balanced by softer, curved elements, creating a dialogue between structure and fluidity. The restrained palette also provides a quiet backdrop for the richness of the materials, allowing each carefully selected finish to contribute to the overall spatial composition.

The kitchen forms the functional and visual heart of the home. A sculptural island, finished with a polished Calacatta stone countertop, serves as both a preparation surface and an informal dining point, reinforcing the idea that everyday functionality can coexist with refined aesthetics. Its gently curved base softens the geometry of the surrounding cabinetry and creates a more fluid transition within the open-plan space.

Above the island, warm integrated lighting illuminates a curated display of glassware and spirits. Conceived as more than simple storage, the illuminated shelving introduces the atmosphere of a boutique bar, bringing warmth and personality into the minimalist setting. Concealed storage elsewhere maintains visual clarity, ensuring that functionality remains seamlessly integrated without compromising the clean architectural language.

The dining area introduces a contrasting moment of delicacy through the Slamp Hanami chandelier. Inspired by the ephemeral beauty of blossoms, its sculptural form becomes an artistic focal point, bringing a sense of lightness and whimsy into the otherwise restrained interior. The juxtaposition between the chandelier's organic expression and the surrounding clean lines creates visual tension and prevents the neutral palette from becoming overly static.

Materiality plays an equally important role in defining the experience. The polished stone introduces subtle movement and natural variation, while warm lighting enhances the tactile qualities of the finishes and creates different layers of ambience throughout the day. Every element is intentionally selected to achieve a balance between visual sophistication and everyday practicality.

The design responds to a homeowner who values both aesthetic clarity and functional living. Instead of pursuing luxury through excess, the residence expresses luxury through considered details, quality materials, thoughtful proportions and purposeful design decisions.

Ultimately, the home is an exercise in balance — between minimalism and warmth, geometry and softness, elegance and practicality. It demonstrates how restraint can become a design statement in itself, resulting in a home that is sophisticated without feeling imposing, intimate without feeling confined, and timeless without losing its sense of character.

ABCD Studio

ABCD Studio by A Blue Cube Design (ABCD) reimagines the conventional workplace through a Modern Luxe concept inspired by the atmosphere of a high-end hotel lounge. The intention was to create a workplace that feels sophisticated yet inviting, luxurious yet comfortable — a space that offers an escape from the intensity of everyday work.

The design is conceived as a multisensory experience, where lighting, colour, materiality and spatial composition work together to establish a warm and immersive ambience. Despite the richness of the interior, the space remains intentionally calming. Every detail is considered not simply for visual impact, but for how it contributes to the overall experience of comfort, discovery and relaxation.

The project embraces maximalism with a strong underlying visual language to maintain cohesion. Decorative animal motifs displayed in pairs introduce a subtle reference to Noah’s Ark, symbolising companionship, protection and a journey towards refuge. These unexpected details add character and narrative, allowing the interior to feel expressive without becoming overwhelming.

Movement through the studio is carefully choreographed. The bold black-and-white chevron flooring creates a strong visual rhythm, naturally directing visitors towards the ABCD signage and deeper into the space. The gesture extends upwards, inspired by the image of a bird taking flight towards the “sky” — creating a sense of movement, aspiration and openness.

A palette of deep tones, monochromatic contrasts and rich textiles establishes the Modern Luxe character. Velvet, metallic accents and layered finishes introduce depth and tactility, while carefully selected furniture and accessories enhance the sense of refined hospitality.

At the centre of the studio, a sculptural marble island becomes the focal point. Its generous curved form softens the surrounding geometry, while intricate accordion detailing along its edges demonstrates the level of craftsmanship embedded within the design. More than a functional gathering space, the island acts as a statement piece that anchors the studio.

The Modern Luxe language continues into the bathroom, where layered marble tones and atmospheric lighting transform a functional space into an intimate, hotel-inspired retreat. Ultimately, ABCD Studio reflects a belief that a workplace should be more than a place to work. In a world where productivity can easily become all-consuming, the studio is designed as an escape — a place to pause, recharge, connect and feel inspired.

Through its bold spatial composition, distinctive storytelling and meticulous attention to materiality and craftsmanship, ABCD Studio transforms the workplace into a sanctuary beyond work — a space where ambition meets comfort, and luxury meets belonging.

Silent Symphony | Where Architecture Honours the Earth

Designed for homeowners who value meaningful moments with family and friends, this residence explores how natural materials can shape both spatial experience and everyday living. The design embraces restraint, allowing architecture to frame rather than compete with the inherent beauty of stone.

The open living space is strategically planned around visual continuity, flexible circulation and layered focal points. Rather than relying on rigid partitions, furniture, architectural framing and material transitions subtly define zones while maintaining generous sightlines and a sense of openness. This spatial strategy allows the living room to remain fluid— equally suited to quiet family moments and larger gatherings.

At its centre, bespoke modular coffee tables crafted from Calacatta Viola Marble serve as both functional furniture and sculptural anchors. Their reconfigurable arrangement supports different modes of living, while the dramatic cabernet veining introduces movement and character.

Directly beyond, a full-height backlit Arctic Cream Granite feature forms the architectural counterpoint. Framed within rich timber panelling, its warm cream, smoky charcoal and golden veining are revealed through integrated lighting. The deliberate alignment of the marble tables and illuminated stone wall creates a strong visual axis, connecting furniture and architecture through scale, colour and materiality. Together, these elements transform natural stone from surface to spatial storytelling, creating a home where thoughtful planning, material artistry and everyday living exist in quiet harmony.

Arc-en-ciel Pâtisserie | A Quiet Garden

Arc-en-ciel Pâtisserie is conceived as a quiet, contemporary retreat where minimalist architecture, tactile materiality and greenery come together to create a sense of calm. From an architect and design consultant perspective, the design focuses on creating an intuitive spatial experience through softened geometry, restrained detailing and carefully controlled light.

The spatial planning is guided by a series of rounded architectural elements that subtly influence movement through the space. A sweeping ceiling drop extends organically across the interior, while a rounded wall corner eliminates the rigidity of conventional 90-degree junctions. These curves soften the visual boundaries of the space and naturally guide the eye and body towards the main service and seating areas. Rather than relying on overt signage or rigid partitions, architecture itself becomes the tool for orientation and circulation.

Materiality follows the same philosophy of quiet simplicity. The palette is intentionally monochromatic and earth-toned, establishing a warm and cohesive backdrop for the pâtisserie experience. Warm white plaster and microcement walls provide a soft, seamless surface, complemented by light-wood joinery that introduces natural warmth and tactility.

At the counter, muted grey vertical tiles create a subtle textural layer, adding depth and definition without disrupting the overall visual calm. The restrained palette allows the architectural forms, pastries and greenery to become the visual focus.

Lighting is carefully integrated into the architecture to enhance rather than compete with it. The sweeping ceiling cove conceals a continuous LED strip, producing a soft wash of indirect illumination across the ceiling. This creates the impression of a floating architectural plane while functioning as a subtle directional element within the space. Recessed pin spotlights are strategically positioned to highlight task areas, the service counter and selected greenery, providing functional illumination while avoiding harsh shadows and overhead glare. The resulting atmosphere is intimate, warm and visually composed.

Biophilic elements further reinforce the connection between the interior and nature. A focal indoor plant is integrated into a perforated, breeze-block-style planter that doubles as a spatial divider. Rather than enclosing the space with a solid wall, the porous structure maintains visual permeability and air circulation while subtly separating the order and checkout zone from the seating and waiting area. The greenery introduces a living element into the otherwise restrained palette, bringing softness and natural variation to the interior.

The planter box also provides an intentional contrast in geometry. Its repetitive, graphic pattern creates a tactile architectural anchor against the smooth, continuous curves of the ceiling and walls. This dialogue between organic and geometric forms gives the minimalist interior a distinctive identity without introducing unnecessary ornamentation.

At Arc-en-ciel Pâtisserie, simplicity is not treated as an absence of design, but as an exercise in precision and restraint. Every curve, material, light source and planting element has been considered to create an environment that feels effortless yet deliberate. The result is a contemporary pâtisserie where architecture guides movement, light shapes atmosphere and nature softens the experience—creating a calm space designed to be savoured.

When A Blue Cube Design (ABCD) began its journey in 2020, it was a small design studio built on a simple belief: good design should be about people, not just spaces.

There was no certainty of how far we would go. Like many young practices, we started with limited resources, a small team and big aspirations. What we had, however, was a strong belief in what design could do — to transform a house into a home, to make everyday living more meaningful, and to create spaces that truly belong to the people who live in them.

Six years later, ABCD has grown significantly, but that belief has never changed.

Our journey from a small studio to an established design-and-build practice has never been about growing simply for the sake of becoming bigger. It has always been about becoming better — better designers, better craftsmen, better listeners and better partners to our clients. Every project, every challenge and every mistake along the way has shaped who we are today.

At the heart of ABCD is our belief that every home deserves to be designed around the people who live in it. We do not believe in imposing a signature style onto our clients. Instead, we listen, understand and translate their personalities, lifestyles and aspirations into spaces that feel genuinely theirs. This philosophy has remained the foundation of our work, from our earliest projects to the more ambitious residences we create today.

As we grew, our design language evolved. We explored modern luxury, contemporary minimalism, Japandi, modern classic, wabi-sabi and more experimental approaches to materiality and spatial planning. Yet beneath these different aesthetics, our principles remained consistent: thoughtful planning, strong proportions, honest materiality, attention to detail and, above all, meaningful design.

Growth also challenged us to think beyond what we already knew.

We began investing more deeply in craftsmanship, technology, materials and the entire design-and-build process. We strengthened our relationships with suppliers and industry partners, developed our own capabilities and created an environment where designers, craftsmen and project teams could work together towards one common vision.

Innovation, for us, has never been about innovation for its own sake. It is about asking a simple question: “Can we do this better?”

This mindset has led to projects and details that push beyond conventional residential design. From bespoke sculptural features such as Sunspill, developed through numerous iterations to balance aesthetics, lighting and spatial principles, to the integration of smart-home technology, acoustic solutions and carefully selected materials, we continually challenge ourselves to find solutions that are both beautiful and purposeful.

But perhaps our greatest growth cannot be measured by the projects we have completed. It is measured by the people who have grown alongside us.

From a small team in 2020, ABCD has grown into a collective of designers, project teams, craftsmen and supporting professionals who share the same pursuit of quality. We believe that a design practice can only grow sustainably when its people grow with it. We invest in learning, mentorship, product knowledge, design exchanges and exposure to the wider design community because we want our designers to develop not only as professionals, but as individuals who understand the responsibility that comes with creating spaces for others.

Our showroom reflects this same evolution. What began as a place to meet clients has become an expression of who we are — a space where design concepts, materials, craftsmanship and technology come together. It is a place for clients to experience possibilities, for designers to exchange ideas, and for industry partners to share knowledge.

Our participation in regional design platforms, awards and international exchanges has also allowed us to look beyond Singapore, learn from the wider design community and contribute our own perspectives. These experiences have reminded us that while design may cross borders, its fundamental purpose remains universal: to create better experiences for people.

Looking back to where we started in 2020, we are proud of how far ABCD has come. But we are equally proud that the things that mattered to us when we were small still matter today.

We still believe in listening before designing.
We still believe that details matter.
We still believe that craftsmanship cannot be compromised.
We still believe that every client deserves to feel heard.
And we still believe that a beautiful space means little if it does not make someone's life better.

Looking back, our journey represents more than the growth of a design practice. It is a story of starting small, having the courage to dream bigger, the resilience to keep moving forward through challenges, and the willingness to continuously learn and evolve. Through every stage of our growth, we have remained grounded in the values that shaped us from the beginning — to stay true to our belief in meaningful design, to care deeply about the people we design for, and to never stop striving to do better.

ABCD's story is still being written.

We have grown in size, experience and ambition, but our purpose remains the same as it was in 2020: to create spaces with meaning, to grow people through design, and to leave something lasting behind.

Because ultimately, our greatest measure of success is not how many projects we complete or how far our name travels.

It is whether, years after we hand over a home, our clients can still walk through the door and feel:

“This is truly our home.”

That is the belief that started ABCD.

And it is the belief that continues to lead us forward.

76 Goodman Road (Bungalow House)

The house is situated in a very nice enclave in the Mountbatten area, where houses of different architectural languages coexist within a prime district in the east. The architecture of this house has the characteristics of a modern, fair-faced concrete house, which is not commonly found in Singapore. It reminds me of the Benesse House Museum at Naoshima by Tadao Ando.

This museum-like architecture is most apt for an interior design concept or direction towards a museum-like quality, where the interior carries forth the architectural language. This seamless transition is important in this approach. To see the objects inside the living spaces, whether it is an artwork, furniture, or the interior spaces themselves, the use of reflection came into play.

Therefore, from the outside of the house, through the use of treated ceilings underneath the roof eaves and extending into the living ceiling, one is able to see the interior spaces through the reflections. The concept has been very strong and has become the uniqueness of this interior design approach.

VZUG ION (Showroom)

The first VZUG showroom in Singapore was designed by me at Scotts Square. The first showroom concept was very different from this recent and latest VZUG showroom at ION, after they shifted to this location.

The VZUG showroom at ION has a very simple interior design concept, whereby whoever comes by the showroom, the appliances speak for themselves. The idea of simplicity is the key design factor of this showroom. It is not about embellishment, but about creating a sanctuary where the products sit quietly, yet are profoundly powerful in their presence.

Stucco was used throughout the whole wall to create this element of simplicity, providing a canvas for the equipment. The stucco was a wax-like material that also speaks of tactility when one moves through the spaces and feels its quietness.

Homogeneous tiles that were specifically printed and made in Italy were used throughout the space, and they were produced exclusively for the VZUG brand. The supplier of these tiles has also been providing tiles of the same quality to Hermès shops.

Finally, it is this quietness that embodies an inner luxury for the space, allowing the VZUG brand to be fitted into the space and sit prominently.

Nouvel18 Penthouse

Nouvel18 is a condominium developed by CDL and, more importantly, the architecture is by Jean Nouvel. This penthouse has an immense double-volume space. The design approach was to create a new atypical scheme that, through the use of steel material, breaks the norm of what a typical interior designer’s approach to a penthouse would be.

The use of steel is a new skin, a skin that is not soft, but a material that is used in boutiques such as Acne Studios. In a strange manner, it gives more rigidity to the space, but somehow the design approach was to make it more definitive.

A reflective material used in the steel was the key factor. This reflection, whether fully reflective or semi-reflective (matte), brings the exterior into the interior, like drawing the external beauty of the landscape into the interior space and making it part of the interior.

8 Swettenham Road (Good Class Bungalow)

This house is located in a beautiful enclave near the Dempsey area, with lush greenery surrounding it. It is because this house sits within this lush green fabric that the design of the interior space is almost inner-looking.

The design approach of inner-looking is that the main spiral staircase, which leads from the basement to the first floor and second floor, becomes the centre core of the living space. This centre core, to me, is a piece of unique artwork—an artwork that mimics the work of Richard Serra, where the use of steel embodies the space and relates to the body. It is like the work of Anish Kapoor within a quiet space.

The use of different materials on the walls allows one to see this feature, be mesmerised by it, and holds one’s heart to be in the space longer. This lingering moment becomes an interior design that is inner-looking.

From one angle, where the full-height window is, it draws one to an external space where a Li Chen sculpture stands. The Li Chen sculpture looks through the window into the interior space, which speaks to the inhabitant inside the living space. It allows a quiet conversation where art speaks with the dwellers, and the dwellers speak directly with the art itself.

Peter Tay Studio

Peter Tay Studio is a Singapore-based interior design practice founded and led by Peter Tay, whose career has been closely intertwined with the growth and evolution of Singapore’s interior design landscape. Over the years, Peter has developed a body of work recognised for its refinement, individuality and enduring sense of character, while also contributing generously to the profession through teaching, mentorship and the sharing of knowledge with the next generation of designers.

For Peter, interior design has never been about following a particular fashion or creating spaces simply for visual impact. It is about understanding people, discovering the character of a place and bringing together architecture, art, materials, light and craftsmanship to create an experience that feels personal. His work is thoughtful without being predictable, sophisticated without losing warmth, and contemporary without sacrificing longevity.

Professional Highlights & Recognitions

Professional Background:
Graduated as an architect from the Architectural Association in London in 2000, before establishing his own practice in 2001. In 2013, Peter published his first monograph, launched in Kyoto, Hong Kong and Singapore.

Celebrity Clients:
Peter Tay Studio has worked with prominent personalities including Zhang Ziyi, Stefanie Sun, Zoe Tay and Wang Lee Hom.

Portfolio & Notable Brands:
His high-profile residential and commercial portfolio includes boutiques and showrooms for Richard Mille, Franck Muller, Manolo Blahnik, Armani Casa, Louis Poulsen, Poliform (Space Showroom) and Maxalto (Space Showroom).

Luxury Showflats & Residential Developments:
Peter has designed luxury showflats and residences for GuocoLand, City Developments Limited (CDL), SC Global, Hotel Properties Limited (HPL), Frasers Property, Allgreen Properties, Keppel Land, CapitaLand and Far East Organization. His notable Singapore projects include:

• 2 Irwell Hill Residences Penthouses
• V Shenton Penthouse
• Martin 38 Penthouse
• 2 Leedon Residence Penthouses
• South Beach Residence Penthouse
• The Concourse Penthouse
• Corals at Keppel Bay Penthouse
• Nouvel 18 Penthouse
• Newport Residences
• BLVD
• Martin Modern
• Midtown Modern
• River Modern
• Midtown Bay
• Hilltops Super Penthouse
• Wallich Residence Super Penthouses

Regional Presence:
His portfolio spans residential houses, apartments, boutiques, offices and showflats across New Delhi, Manila, Niseko, Jakarta, Kuala Lumpur, Bangkok, Taipei, Hong Kong, Beijing and Shanghai.

Industry Contributions & Leadership:
With over 15 years of lecturing experience at various design institutions, Peter has contributed to the development of the next generation of designers. He currently serves as Singapore’s Ambassador to the Asia Pacific Space Designers Association (APSDA) and Honorary Advisor to the Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS).

Awards & Recognition:
2014: Designer of the Year, President’s Design Award.
2021: Lifetime Achievement Award, Society of Interior Designers Singapore (SIDS).
2023: Best Design Firm of the Year, SIDS.
2024: Best Design Firm of the Year, Interior Design Confederation Singapore (IDCS).
2025: Gold Award in the Interior Design category for Best Good Class Bungalow, Tatler Homes Design Awards; named among Singapore’s Top 30 Influential Spatial/Interior Designers by SIDS.
2026: Asia Outstanding Design Personality Award, Asian Biennial Award.

A Distinctive Way of Seeing

One of the most recognisable signatures within Peter’s work is his use of reflection. Rather than treating the ceiling as a secondary surface, Peter often turns it into an active part of the composition, using reflective materials to extend the perception of space, capture light and create unexpected visual relationships between the architecture and its surroundings.

The reflection becomes more than a decorative device. It encourages people to look upward and experience a room differently. A ceiling can mirror architecture, furniture, artwork and movement, creating another layer to the space and allowing familiar elements to be perceived from an entirely different perspective.

This simple yet distinctive gesture reflects Peter’s broader design philosophy: to look beyond the obvious and to find opportunities where others may overlook them. His interiors are carefully composed, but they are never merely about perfection. They are about creating moments that people remember.

A Body of Work Built on Individuality

Peter Tay Studio’s portfolio encompasses residential, commercial and bespoke interiors, each approached with a strong emphasis on individuality and craftsmanship. Despite the diversity of spaces and clients, a consistent quality runs through the work: a strong sense of proportion, carefully considered material palettes, meticulous detailing and an understanding that every project should have its own identity.

Peter does not believe in imposing a predetermined aesthetic onto every client or space. Instead, he listens, observes and interprets. Materials are selected for their texture and character; furniture and objects are considered as part of the architecture; and art is integrated as an essential component of the overall experience.

The result is a portfolio that does not rely on a single visual formula. Its true signature is the thoughtfulness behind each project and the conviction that a well-designed interior should continue to reveal itself over time.

Sharing Knowledge and Shaping the Next Generation

Peter’s contribution to interior design extends beyond the work produced by his studio. He has made a conscious effort to give back to the profession through teaching and engaging with students in design schools, sharing his experience and practical knowledge with young designers at an important stage of their development.

For Peter, teaching is not simply about passing on technical knowledge. It is an opportunity to encourage students to think more deeply about why they design, to question conventions and to develop their own voice. His experience as a practicing designer allows him to bridge the gap between the classroom and the realities of professional practice, giving students insight into the discipline, responsibility and persistence required to create meaningful work.

This interaction with young designers has become an important part of his professional legacy. By opening up his experiences and perspectives, Peter helps nurture a generation that is not only technically capable, but also more thoughtful about the role and responsibility of design.

Leadership Through Practice

Peter’s leadership is perhaps best understood through the example he sets. His career demonstrates that longevity in design comes not from constantly chasing what is new, but from remaining curious while holding firmly to fundamental principles of proportion, craftsmanship, materiality and human experience.

He has consistently advocated for a holistic approach in which interior designers work closely with architects, artists, craftspeople, lighting designers and specialist makers. This collaborative mindset has strengthened the role of the interior designer as an important creative voice within the built environment.

His willingness to share knowledge, engage with the industry and mentor emerging designers has further extended his influence beyond his own practice. In doing so, Peter has helped foster a stronger appreciation of interior design as a discipline that can shape not only how spaces look, but also how people live, feel and connect with their surroundings.

 A Lasting Legacy

What makes Peter Tay’s contribution particularly meaningful is the consistency of his belief in the power of design. His work has evolved with changing times, yet it has never lost its sense of restraint, curiosity and human connection.

The reflected ceiling that appears throughout his work is, in many ways, an apt metaphor for his career. It asks us to look at something familiar from a different angle. It reminds us that there is always another perspective, another possibility and another layer waiting to be discovered.

Peter has spent his career creating spaces that invite people to pause, look and experience. At the same time, through teaching and mentorship, he has encouraged younger designers to do the same—to question, to observe and ultimately to find their own way of seeing.

His legacy therefore extends beyond the interiors he has created. It lives in the designers he has influenced, the standards he has upheld, and the belief he continues to share that good design should not simply fill a space; it should leave something behind.

Peter Tay Studio represents this enduring philosophy: a practice built not only on beautiful spaces, but on curiosity, generosity, craftsmanship and a genuine commitment to the future of interior design.