Dreams in Motion: The path of a Motion Graphics Designerhttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Animation-for-Frozen-the-Musical.png19201080Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/05/Animation-for-Frozen-the-Musical.png
Tell us more about you — what inspired you to focus on Motion Graphics and 3D Animation? Well, I initially delved into character animation, which is a super specialized role. Over time, I found myself yearning for a position that had a broader scope in projects. That’s when motion design caught my attention. Given its rising popularity, it seemed like a wise move to transition into that field and looking back, I still feel confident in that decision!
Which design software or tool do you prefer the utmost? I wouldn’t say I have a favorite tool because I use whatever allows me to complete a project. However, Adobe After Effects holds a special place in my heart because I’ve been using it for the longest time.
How do you stay up-to-date with the latest trends? To be honest, I’m not someone who intentionally keeps up with trends. For example, I’m still not on TikTok. However, I find that I’m naturally updated on new design aesthetics and ideas because I consume art and design content daily. We’re in an awesome time where people are constantly creating mind-blowing and innovative things, and I love stumbling upon these works.
What’s the biggest learning experience you’ve had? Freelancing, which is my current journey. Being self-taught, it has been a quite a struggle, and if I were to think of myself as a product, I’d currently be a failure. But I’m hopeful that with constant failure, I’ll keep iterating on myself until I become a great product. As James Dyson said, “Failure is the only way to progress.”
What is your guilty pleasure? Anime and manga. But please don’t recommend any new ones because once I start, I can’t stop. My most recent anime was Ousama Ranking and it made me cry a lot. And if I were to recommend any, it would definitely be the Manga – Dead Dead Demon’s Dededede Destruction.
What is your favorite thing about motion graphics? I really appreciate that now, any form of a moving picture is considered motion design, and the doors are wide open for anyone to join in. With the accessibility of motion design tools, literally “anyone can cook.”
What made you join our Portfolio & Career Advisory night? I’m in the midst of transitioning into a career in UX design, and the Portfolio & Career Advisory night was a great opportunity to join a design community and learn from industry veterans. It absolutely delivered!
Deon Ng, Freelancer
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
Urban design that enhance liveshttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2018-UDR-The-Growroom.jpg24001602Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/03/2018-UDR-The-Growroom.jpg
Tell us more about LOPELAB — what inspired you to start the company and what were your primary goals?
In 2013, my PR application was approved. I realised that I had gained the freedom to invest my time in a more purpose-driven way, and to make an impact on Singapore and the world.
With this newfound sense of purpose, I left my corporate job and embarked on a transformative journey. After a year of exploring and learning, I founded LOPELAB – a design consultancy that blends urban design with social ideas to create a more enjoyable and sustainable city. My ultimate goal is to create a better world for everyone, and to make a positive impact on the planet. With LOPELAB, I am able to pursue my passion for design and social responsibility, and inspire others to join me on this incredible journey.
Share with us a project that you’re particularly proud of.
It’s difficult to choose just one project as I’ve had the privilege of working on so many amazing initiatives. From developing innovative plans for the future of the Youth area in Singapore (Somerset Belt), to transforming the Central Business District (Raffles Place) into the vibrant Central Buzz District, I had many opportunities to be a part of transformative work. However, if I had to pick just one project that stands out in my mind, it would be the Urban Design Festival in 2019 – a truly inspiring initiative that embodies our vision of reclaiming underutilised urban spaces and giving them back to the people and communities they serve.
After more than two years of hard work and dedication, we were able to transform the top two floors of an underutilised carpark into a thriving hub of activity. The festival featured talks, exhibitions, concerts, workshops, and a whole host of other activities, including a roller disco skate rink and a pop-up rooftop restaurant.
It was a true celebration of community, creativity, and the power of design to transform spaces and bring people together. Looking back on that project, I feel a deep sense of pride and inspiration, knowing that we were able to create something truly special and impactful for the people of Singapore.
In your view, what are the key trends or shifts in urban design in the coming years? How has LOPELAB adapted to these changes?
There will be a continued emphasis on technology and its integration into urban design in the coming years. LOPELAB has adapted by exploring the potential of new technologies such as Blockchain, NFT, and AI, and has even developed a new methodology that leverages people’s needs and technology.
It’s important for urban designers to stay up-to-date with the latest trends and technologies in order to create innovative and effective solutions for the future.
What advice would you give to a young designer or entrepreneur who just starting out in the industry?
My advice would be to stay hungry, humble, and to keep an open mind to new opportunities and ideas. The world of design and entrepreneurship is constantly evolving, and it’s important to stay alert and be willing to adapt to changing circumstances.
One of the best ways to learn and grow as a designer or entrepreneur is to seek out mentors and role models who can offer guidance and inspiration. Learn from the masters, but don’t be afraid to develop your own unique perspective and vision.
Another key piece of advice is to focus on gaining a broad range of experiences. Try new things, test new ideas, and don’t be afraid to fail. Failure is an important part of the learning process, which teaches you valuable lessons that will help you grow and evolve as a designer or entrepreneur.
Remember that success is a journey, not a destination. Embrace the challenges and setbacks along the way, and stay true to your passion and purpose. With hard work, determination, and willingness to learn and grow, you can achieve great things in the world of design and entrepreneurship.
Looking ahead, what are some of the biggest challenges or opportunities that you see for LOPELAB in the next 3-5 years? How do you plan to address them?
The next few years are sure to bring both challenges and opportunities for LOPELAB. With the world changing at an unprecedented pace, we must be ready to adapt and evolve our approach to meet the needs of our clients and our community.
Despite the challenges, I see a world of possibility ahead. In every crisis, there are opportunities to innovate, to find new solutions, and create a better world for all of us. As Benjamin Franklin once said, “Out of adversity comes opportunity.” (who was probably inspired by ancient Chinese philosophy “opportunities often arise from crisis.”!)
At LOPELAB, we will be embracing these challenges head-on, by staying curious, connected to our community, and open to new ideas and approaches.
The future may be uncertain, but we are excited to meet the challenges ahead and to create a brighter, more sustainable future for us all.
Do you have any role models that you look up to?
There’s one figure in particular who stands out to me as a true pioneer in the field of human-centered design and placemaking – Professor Jan Gehl. Professor Gehl’s approach to urban design is about putting people first. He recognises that our cities and public spaces should be designed to meet the needs and desires of the people who inhabit them, rather than simply serving the needs of cars and commerce.
Like Professor Gehl, I’m passionate about observing how people move and interact in urban spaces, and how design can be used to create more livable and vibrant communities. His work has been my constant source of inspiration, and strive to incorporate his principles into my own design process. Ultimately, my goal as a designer is to create not only beautiful and functional spaces, but that truly enhance the lives of the people who use them.
What is a perfect weekend for you?
For me, a perfect weekend is all about balance – balancing time with friends, time for myself, and time with my family. It’s a chance to recharge my batteries, reconnect with the people I love, and experience new adventures.
Friday nights are all about winding down from the week and catching up with friends. Whether it’s having dinner at a new restaurant or just relaxing with a few drinks, it’s a chance to decompress and enjoy some good company.
On Saturdays, I enjoy activities that nurture my body and soul. It might be going for a long bike ride, catching some waves while surfing, or going for a jog with my dog -Maxwell. Whatever the activity, it’s a chance to push myself physically and clear my mind.
Sundays, on the other hand, are all for my family. I love exploring the great outdoors with my wife and daughter, discovering new hiking trails, and experiencing new adventures together. Whether it’s a day trip to the beach or a visit to a local nature reserve, it’s a chance to create memories that will last a lifetime.
How do you overcome creative blocks?
Creative blocks can be frustrating, but I’ve found that the best way to overcome them.
I disconnect from my work and reconnect with nature. There’s something magical about being outside, surrounded by the beauty of the world around us. It can get the creative juices flowing.
One of my favorite ways is through exercising – swimming, jogging, or cycling are great ways to get the blood pumping. Reading can often lead to unexpected insights and creative solutions.
Lorenzo Petrillo, Founder of LOPELAB
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
The Power Couple at Workhttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Featured.jpg800606Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/02/Featured.jpg
1) Tell us more about GramVideos – What is your firm’s focus within video production and what led your firm to have such a focus?
Gram is in the persuasion business. We lead corporate communication solutions by integrating proven business frameworks with our creative minds. While many companies in this industry focus on creating over the top visuals, we believe in developing communication solutions through the use of videos.
Educators at heart, our mission is to make complex, “boring” topics more interesting and accessible to everyone!
Among your firm’s achievements, which one(s) are you the most proud of?
The Gram fam culture, where everyone is a Gram champ!
We have a pretty strong mentorship culture within Gram, which permeates into every facet of the corporate DNA – everyone learns constantly from one another, and grows together as a Gram Family.
Fill in the blank: The future of animation is _________.?
M: …Limitless.
JY: …Awesome!
Animation continues to be one of the most versatile, multi-faceted and nuanced disciplines out there, with the potential to enrich every area of the media industry. Emerging fields like AI, blockchain, NFTs, and metaverse have a natural synergy with the field of animation, and will continue to be shaped by the advancements of technology and creativity in this field.
For instance, when my design team is busy, I can use AI-enabled technology to generate content for my pitches, and even beautify this otherwise wordy document, literally within seconds! Unlike naysayers who worry that creatives will one day become obsolete – I feel AI will just become another tool that good creatives can use at their disposal. If you look into the technology driving generative AI-art, they are aggregating artworks that were created by humans, which will not make sense without the human element.
Junyi (left), Meredith (Right), Singapore-based top animation and video production studio, also the Singapore Good Design Video Animation Partner.
What are the advantages of working in the animation field as well as the flip side of it?
M: Freedom and flexibility has gotta be the greatest advantage of being in this field, but it also comes with great responsibilities and a pretty high level of stress (especially when we expect ourselves to thrive and excel).
JY: Animation is pretty powerful, and allows for near-infinite forms of expression – every single aspect of an animated video can be customised to the artist/director’s imagination. The flip side is the decision paralysis that many young creatives face when offered infinite possibilities.
Keep on learning and enjoy what you learn.
What advice would you give to aspiring producers/animators?
Stay focused, and always remember why you’re here. Producing and Animation are time-consuming endeavors – The former requires multi-hatting and completing innumerable small yet important tasks throughout the day, like flipping the various buttons and knobs in a pilot’s cockpit in sequence, before a project can take off and succeed.
The latter requires deep focus and an engineering mindset to solve complex design/technical problems that may not always have a “plug-and-play” solution. Both disciplines require great humility and mental fortitude to succeed in the long run.
The learning curve is steep – embrace it!
Do you have any role models that you look up to?
The legendary animator Hayao Miyazaki who continues to show the world that animation can be cool! Despite his various successes on the big screen, he continues to be humbled and sometimes despaired by creative challenges, which makes him fallible and ultimately relatable.
On the other end of the spectrum, Simon Sinek is a great inspiration as well, particularly in his book “The Infinity Game” where he debunked the “us vs them” competitiveness that our modern capitalistic society is characterised by. In life and in work, it is only via win-win approaches that any long-term success was ever forged, and that is our M.O when facing clients, “competitors” and collaborators alike!
What is a perfect weekend for you?
The DINK answer: Has gotta be a weekend getaway – think sitting by the poolside with a drink in one hand and my laptop in the other, or replying to emails/preparing some proposals while waiting to board a flight somewhere. Traveling fuels my creativity!
The family man answer: Playing chapteh with my daughter at the park!
I’m a competitive chapteh player who fell in love with the sport as a teenager. I was an oddball in an elite school, and chapteh was a surprisingly egalitarian activity where jocks, nerds, and misfits can put aside their differences and play together.
Today, I still enjoy mentoring people in corporate events centered around chapteh mentorship/coaching. In our digital world, it’s increasingly rare to find traditional pursuits that our younger generation can relate to, which is something I find precious and worth evangelising about.
8) How do you overcome creative blocks?
M: Go on an aimless drive, or play a match of Dota 2.
JY: One of my favourite activities is called “Exquisite Corpse”.
Popularised by Surrealist artists such as Salvador Dali, it is a doodling game that involves 2 or more people collaborating on an art sketch without seeing what the big picture is. The paper is folded in such a way that you only see the “start points” left behind by the previous artist’s drawing, create an image based on that, and pass on your “end points” to the next artist to continue the drawing. The end result is often bizarre and very interesting.
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
A day in the life of Ar. Chio Wen Tianhttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/DBCS_Singapore-Design-Awards_16-1024x682-1.jpeg1024682Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/01/DBCS_Singapore-Design-Awards_16-1024x682-1.jpeg
1) Can you describe your daily routine as an architect?
The stage of the projects dictates the daily routine of an Architect. In general, my day typically comprises of some of these essential tasks:
Coffee – A must to start the day!
Planning – Creating a checklist for the day to stay focus and productive.
Emails / Phone calls – Communicating with clients, contractors, suppliers etc.
Tasking – Assigning tasks to team members, discussing deliverables and deadline.
Designing, Modelling, Sketching – The fun part for all Architects – to test, iterate and come up with appropriate design solutions.
Statutory Compliance checks / submission – To ensure that designs are according to codes and regulations and to prepare drawings for submissions to relevant agencies for approval.
Coordination work / Site visits – To ensure that works on site are executed according to design and compliance.
2) Which project(s) are you most proud of?
Really excited and proud of my current new project which marks the firm’s first venture overseas and foreign market entry into Ho Chi Minh City, Vietnam. The project is by a local client – Ola Beach Club (@olabeachclubsg) and it is an additions & alterations (A&A) of an existing 3-storeys residential building into a hawaiian-themed F&B enclave with a rooftop bar facing the iconic pink church – Tan Dinh Church.
3) Share with us an update on project EMBRACE. How has Singapore Design Awards impacted your journey?
The Singapore Design Awards being co-created by the Ministry of Community, Culture and Youth and DBCS definitely lend credibility to this proposed urban intervention and garner encouraging support from the relevant agencies (Land Transport Authority, SMRT Corporation, National Park Boards, Town Councils and People’s Association).
After months of approvals, clearances, collaborations & funds application, we have our first mock-up along Boon Lay Way opposite Yuhua Community Centre! Our eight collaborating artists are in the final month of artwork creation and the project will proceed to the installation stage at the end of February (all structures and panels are sponsored by our community sponsor – Nippon Builders Pte Ltd).
The official launch date will be on 4th March 2023, Saturday. The Guest-of-Honour is Ms Grace Fu, Minister for Sustainability and the Environment. Stay tuned for more exciting updates on this final milestone of Project Embrace!
4) Do you have a favourite architecture in Singapore? And why?
More of a style than a particular building. I am always intrigued by Singapore modern architecture (i.e Shenton House , Colonnade Condominium, The Concourse etc.) and especially 1960s-1980s HDB blocks.
I particularly love to spot their functional features – overhang, light shelves/rain shield, water tank shading on roof, corridors, external stairs, slits in the parapet walls etc.
Giving the cluster of blocks their unique appearance and character and imbue a sense of identity for the community. These modern HDB blocks are indeed architectural gems that not only solve Singapore’s urgent housing crisis in the 1960s, they continue to stand the test of time. Underrated, keep a look out for them!
5) How do you overcome your creative blocks?
In 2020, I started creating my own design library by documenting existing interesting designs through 3D printing (facades, patterns, perforation, screens etc.) in 10cm x 10cm models. I believe that true design innovation follows after knowing what has been done before. I continue to draw inspiration from my 3D printed research work and imagine the permutation of possibilities.
“A print a day keeps the mundane away!”
6) Do you have any role models that you look up to?
My tutors guided me along my journey from an architecture student to becoming an Architect.
Ar. Richard Ho (Principal Architect of RichardHo Architects) & Ar. Ng Sanson (Director of DP Architects).
Their dedication and passion for the profession inspire me to serve as the Chair of Young Architects League (YAL), Singapore Institute of Architects (SIA).
7) What is a perfect weekend for you?
Trying new activity with my lovely wife Vanessa and two cheeky kids – Louisa & Lyon.
Ar. Chio Wen Tian from CHIO Architects, Winner of Singapore Design Awards 2021/2022
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
Harsai Kron Reflects on his Career & Lifehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/team-1-scaled.jpeg25601920Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/team-1-scaled.jpeg
Tell us a little more about yourself. What do you do at ComfortDelGro?
I’m currently working at ComfortDelGro (CDG Zig app) as a Senior UI/UX Designer. I am deeply passionate about solving problems and making useful things for people. I leverage research and data to transfer insights to actionable design solutions which solve problems for both users and businesses.
How do you feel when you see consumers using the CDG Zig app?
I feel both happy and proud when I receive compliments or feedback from the users. With the given feedback, we try to enhance the user experience in the app.
Interaction with any product produces an experience (emotion) – whether it has UX or not. Thus, we establish connections with the users by tapping into their emotions through enhancing their user experience.
What has been your personal mantra?
As a firm believer of having a positive attitude, I constantly advise myself to never let go of the witty kid inside me. I believe that such a mindset can create a ripple effect to the world in volumes.
Harsai Kron, Singapore-based UI/UX designer is the brains behind the Zig app and possesses a passion for creating useful solutions.
If you had the chance to turn back time, what would you tell your 20-years old self?
Embrace technological endeavours, and make sure that they are accessible, applicable, and affordable to all.
Keep on learning and enjoy what you learn.
Living in a world where technology is ever advancing, is there anything you wish would remain unchanged?
Technology makes life easier and more comfortable for humans. It enables us to save both time and money. Indeed, AI can replace some of our jobs.
But leadership, socio-emotional skills and human intelligence are irreplaceable facets of the world. The human intelligence and humanity that run the world should remain unchanged.
Having recently joined DBCS Circle Connects, what topics are you looking forward to in the future?
Design Thinking, UI/UX, Interior Design and Product Design
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
The Duo Behind PLUS Grouphttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/7.jpeg16001600Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/7.jpeg
How was Plus Group founded? How did Mervin and you meet and become a business duo?
PLUS was founded by 11 other members. We started out as a student group in NUS Architecture that explored life plus curriculum outside of architecture to enrich our understanding of what design can do to a creative person. From the student group, the Head of Dept and our Professors encouraged us to form something more concrete outside of the school’s vicinity, to harness the unique synergy that we have built in school.
Currently, most of the other partners have expanded their personal careers and have left PLUS, a situation that we knew would arise and hopefully our journeys will meet in the new future to push PLUS again.
Husband-and-wife creative duo, Mervin and Cheryl are founders of the PLUS Group, a Gold Recipient of the Singapore Good Design Awards 2022.
Instead of focusing on a specific niche, why interdisciplinary?
We have always felt that design is a strategy to reach a goal that was carved out. We view each project with a holistic approach and suggest different outputs that we feel will have the best outcome. Therefore, to be able to achieve this unusual approach, we needed an interdisciplinary setup.
“Design is subjective. But your objectives aren’t.” Could you further explain this bold statement on PLUS Group’s website?
Design as a topic is definitely subjective. What is “nice” or “beautiful” to a person, might not necessarily be the same to another. However, when achieving a goal with proper setups of targets to meet, that becomes objective. For PLUS, this is where the data and art or design meet.
What went through your mind when the project – Insecta Iridesse was awarded the Singapore Good Design Gold Award?
We were definitely delighted. It just proves that our hard work meant something to others, especially those within the design industry. It was tough to convince clients of our unusual approach to design, but this helps in showing that our ways, though unconventional, could still yield positive results.
What is one of the most worthwhile investments that both of you have ever made for a project?
Community projects are something new that we are exploring. Seeing the faces of the communities and having them respond to you the way you want your design to impact them – those situations are priceless.
Leading a team isn’t easy. Do you have any advice for solopreneurs or managers on what it takes to succeed and/or complete a project?
We are not sure if it is an advice, but we make sure the team in PLUS eats a lot. Eating is our form of appreciation and eating is our way of showing that we care. Make sure the team is being taken care of and the team will take care of you.
As the saying goes, two heads are better than one. If we may ask, how do you and your partner take care of each other after work?
We do not know actually. Our lives are so intertwined with work that it sometimes gets muddled up and the flow just leads the way.
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
3D Printing and Pokemon Enthusiast, Matt of Imagene Creativehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Figure-8.jpg16001066Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Figure-8.jpg
Tell us a little more about yourself. What excites you in life?
Hello, I am Matt, a photographer, a maker, and a designer. More importantly, I am a 3D printing enthusiast who enjoys creating new products that solve everyday problems. I work on a wide range of 3D printed projects ranging from architecture models, toy making, engineering solutions to many everyday products. As convenient as 3D printing is, not all parts of a product need to be 3D printed.
I often go shopping at stores like Daiso to hunt for a simple base product (for example a spray bottle) and enhance its features functionally or aesthetically by modifying the base product to suit it for a specific purpose. As a huge fan of Pokemon, I creatively recreate functional items that reflect the characteristics of some of my favourite Pokemons.
How was Imagene Creative founded?
Although Imagene Creative officially started in 2020, the preparation works started much earlier. When I was in university, I realised a market gap in which students are expected to complete their prototype for their course work within a certain time period, but there are often not sufficient resources in schools for everyone to utilise. That was when I began to provide a prototyping service via 3D printing.
I started off with only one personal 3D printer on hand, and as the business grew, I acquired more printers along the way. Through this journey, I met more like-minded people and that is where I got exposed to workshop facilitation in the area of design across various levels. I really wanted to advocate the convenience of self-printed products and the power of imagination that allow oneself to break free from the concept of forced adaptation of lifestyle based on the restriction by the readily-available-products in the market.
Currently, Imagene Creative is a start-up based in the SUTD Entrepreneurship Centre (EC) where the school provides support for its students and alumni to kickstart their creative process. This environment provides a safe harbour and a close network for like-minded individuals to spark creativity and mutual learning.
From 3D printing services to offering workshops, which activity engages you the most?
I would say that both the 3D printing services and the conduct of workshops are closely related within the design ecosystem; they are in an upstream-downstream relationship. Firstly, the teaching of design or entrepreneurship allows students to create solutions on paper or in some form of 3D software, then there is a need to prototype them into the real-world space for testing, and that is where 3D printing comes in.
Matthew Chiu is a young entrepreneur and the founder of Imagene Creatives, where he works on an array of 3D printed projects.
How did the PM50 project come about?
The PSM50 is a project that took all my skills to test. I was referred by one of my university professors in Architecture about an opportunity to re-create replicas of national monuments in Singapore in collaboration with the National Heritage Board (NHB). Having a degree in Architecture, creating 3D models of buildings should not be that difficult of a task, at least that is what I thought at first. In the engagement of PSM50, I was tasked to recreate digital 3D models of 11 renown monuments before 3D printing them physically within a short period of 2.5 months.
The real challenge lied where I had to recreate the digital 3D models without the full set of building documentation mainly due to security reasons. In order to complete the task, I will then have to rely on puzzling complete images of various sources together such as Google Maps, Google Earth, Instagram, and several onsite visits to determine the shape and proportions of the monuments. Another challenge involved the short timeline where I had to stagger the virtual model creation and the physical 3D printing. While the first monument had been loaded on the 3D printer, I would have to start on the next monument immediately. Though the job was tedious, I had a lot of fun learning about our history as I was detailing the model.
One of the 11 monument miniature models that I was tasked to create was the “Bowyer Block” that is located within the Singapore General Hospital (SGH). Besides the models needed for the PSM50 Exhibition, I was also tasked to fabricate extra Bowyer Block models that were going to be given as tokens-of-appreciations to VIPs during an important event. I was thrilled to be told that one of the Bowyer Block models was even presented to PM Lee.
How did you feel when you learned that you were awarded the Singapore Good Design Award?
I was really excited when I was notified about the award and the opportunity to be able to interact with fellow brilliant designers in Singapore. In my impression, SG Mark is a prestigious recognition given to the top designers across the sectors and I would not have fathomed receiving it before I got to work on the PSM50 exhibition.
During the gala dinner, I was honoured to be meeting so many like-minded individuals and organisations that are pushing the forefront of design in various aspects in their own unique ways. The award ceremony acts as a symposium that motivates and encourages people to solve everyday problems creatively using design as a focal point, to emphasise that there is more than one approach to solve the same problem; where each individual can potentially solve a similar problem in a very unique approach that leverages on their personal experiences and beliefs.
Overall, it was a fun and joyous experience in both knowing about getting the award and attending the actual event itself.
Is there any equipment or software that you use to help you manage your workload and productivity?
Yes, simply a 3D printer. The response may give the impression that I am a geek, but I wouldn’t want to be classified as one. Having a 3D printer at home keeps my brain active and allows me to immediately prototype my ideas into the real world, without having to wait till the next day at work. I do not particularly agree with the phrase “to sit on an idea and give it another thought”. I believe in the rapid cycle of “prototype – test – learn – repeat”.
Having to materialise my ideas allows me to test it immediately in terms of ergonomics and usability, which are aspects of design that are hard to foresee just by thinking. Thus, having a 3D printer at home grants me the power to create something overnight literally by just sending the file into the printer and heading to bed.
One example was the involvement in the “MakersAgainstCovid19” organisation that was founded during the initial Covid days where the 3D printing community in Singapore collectively printed 52,000 ear-savers for the frontline workers within a short period of time. The ear-savers were printed and iterated in batches rapidly in accordance with the feedback obtained.
What helps you to decompress and recuperate after work?
I indulge in a wide range of activities such as kayaking, prawning, 3D printing, photography, and surfing. Well, the most interesting activity to share might be my photography hobby where I have moved beyond digital cameras. When I say, “moved beyond”, most would think that I have shifted to something more high-tech. But no, it is the exact opposite. I am now doing Gameboy Photography which is a 1990s technology. Being a 90s kid, the Gameboy is something that I personally grew up with. But only recently did I realise that there is something called the Gameboy Camera which was released back in 1998 which I did not have the luxury to have back then.
The Gameboy Camera is basically a game cartridge with a built-in camera and allows the Gameboy device to become a camera upon plugging the cartridge in. Although the Gameboy Camera produces a low-resolution image, the image has a unique timeless style to it. As the Gameboy Camera has a built-in wide-angle lens, it is difficult to capture portraits with a rather clean background.
To mitigate the issue, online enthusiasts have attempted to combine a Gameboy Camera cartridge with modern DSLR camera lens with a customised adapter. In my case, I have 3D printed my own adapter using the online provided file and added my own modification of an extra grip for a more stable and pleasing shooting experience. The process of creating such an adapter had demonstrated my emphasis on the “prototype – test – learn – repeat” cycle as one will never get the prototype right on the first try itself.
Beyond working hours, do you have any commitments or activities that you pursue?
Beyond working hours, I am actually a full-time dad for my 8-month-old daughter. From my very brief experience, juggling fatherhood and work is not easy at all but I will say it is indeed very fruitful when you see that happy face smiling at you after a long tiring day of work.
My love for 3D printing does not just get confined with work; I think it is more of a way of living to be constantly creative and try to problem-solve using design. I have designed and 3D printed various gadgets and toys that help me with fatherhood along the way whenever I encounter “opportunities”. Yes, I will identify those as opportunities instead of problems, so yes, I am quite “problem-free”!
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Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
Lionbots International’s Quirky Head of Special Projects, Lee Tat Linhttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/DSC00007.jpg16161080Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/DSC00007.jpg
Lee Tat Lin, a SUTD graduate, happens to be the designer and maker behind our Singapore Good Design (SG Mark) plaques.
Tell us a little more about yourself. Describe your personal style.
I’m educated as an engineer but the last 7 years of my career has taken me through a multitude of experiences from research to design, to consulting, and to where I am now. I value each one of them and suffice to say, I like to explore and dabble in new things!
What do you do at Lionsbot International?
I mainly focus on investor relations and overseas expansion, as well as driving a portion of our marketing efforts. It is exciting to see our cleaning robots all over the world, empowering cleaning professionals to be the future of cleaning!
What is your design ethos/motto?
I believe that every design is a solution to a problem, and it is crucial to always design for the right problem instead of seeking the right design for the wrong problem.
What’s the best piece of advice you’ve received?
I’ve had many great advices but I like this rather unusual piece of advise: “Teach them the right way, but tell them the real way”
What would you like to have as your last meal on earth?
Definitely a bowl of noodle soup accompanied by grilled steak with roasted potatoes and vegetables. Not forgetting some good beer!
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
Abhay Vyas of Salesforce Advises to “Keep it Simple”https://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Swift_Review_1_1_1280-e1671078069192.jpeg12801119Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Swift_Review_1_1_1280-e1671078069192.jpeg
As a designer, have you always been interested in the tech space? Share your journey with us. Tell us a little more about yourself.
Unconsciously yes!
I’m a young, always cheerful and passionate UX designer practising user-centred design in Bengaluru, India. I am also a well-acknowledged photographer & auto-ethnographer.
I started my career at Whirlpool India as an Interaction Design Intern working on multiple tangible interfaces, then moved to the research domain and joined CKS as a researcher. After exploring research, I joined Info Edge (Naukti.com) as an interaction designer and primarily worked on the recruiter side of the products for close to three years. Later, I moved to Microsoft India and worked for 5+ years on various products like Windows Apps, Bing, and Dynamics 365.
From there, I joined Salesforce, where I’m responsible for the end-user product experience for Industries’ Common Services and Platforms. I’ve spent the last few years helping various companies to create an effortless user experience and design delightful digital products. This experience allowed me to acquire a wide range of skills as a designer.
Building products from scratch, working alongside developers, analysing customer interactions, and seeing how users use my designs and continuously improve them is what I love the most about my job!
Abhay Vyas is the brain behind the SG Mark winning project - Business Rules Engine in the Digital Solutions Category and is currently the Director of Product Design at Salesforce.
What are the greatest highlights or impacts of working at Salesforce?
Salesforce is a fast-paced and dynamic environment where we work closely with our product owners and constantly innovate.
As part of the Salesforce Industries, I had multiple opportunities to work on zero-to-one products. I lead the end-to-end product experience for Industries Public Sector Cloud. This has dramatically impacted connecting today’s government with every citizen and employee. With the help of this product, government agencies can now deliver mission impact through modern, secure, and compliantexperience.
I lead the design and product (to an extent) for the Salesforce Business Rules Engine that empowers anyone to build, test, and execute rules with a drag and drop no-code interface. This product has become a core of the Salesforce platform and won the Singapore Good Design award.
There have been a few other personal highlights as well. Salesforce supported me in completing my executive education from IIM Bengaluru, allowed my interest for mentoring new talents to manifest in reality by giving me a chance to participate in the AIGA New York mentorship program, and many more.
Working with different stakeholders in cross-departments across the organisation isn’t easy. How do you facilitate and manage your stakeholders? How would you advise your junior and why?
I would give credit to Slack for its great asynchronous and continuous collaboration. 😀
Keeping that aside, we have established clear roles in the team that have helped to keep things moving more smoothly. We have limited the number of stakeholders to only those who are essential. We have created a regular check-in and have given sign-off power to everyone involved in the project.
I would advise the team to “set the right tone”. Healthy relationships between cross-departments can significantly influence how well team members can collaborate. You can set up regular check-ins with your counterparts to understand the overall progress and challenges. Have retrospectives within the teams to understand what went well and what did not and improve things. This can foster a sense of collective responsibility for your organisation’s success and build a sense of trust across the departments.
In the past 3 years, what new habits or systems have helped improvised your life?
“Synergize”
This has helped me collaborate with people around me to create alternatives rather than settling for a compromise. While practising synergy, we have developed innovative solutions that leverage diversity and satisfy all key stakeholders.
On the personal front, I have also started focusing more on my health and have developed a few good habits like doing yoga, meditation, and a few weekly runs, which keep me at peace.
What advice would you give to any graduates who are entering the “real world”? What advice should they ignore?
“Speak up and make yourself visible.”
Ask questions and don’t hesitate to give your opinion. Talk about your work; try to expose yourself to more opportunities. This will give you a lot of visibility and help you learn fast.
“Avoid focusing on Minimum Viable Product.”
You are a designer, so use your skills to create an ideal vision that can serve as the “guiding light” that your team can constantly refer to, consult, and steer towards.
If you have a chance to place a quote on billboards across your city, what would it be and why?
“Keep it Simple.”
Everyone loves simplicity. It’s easy to articulate, understand, and execute. We should avoid providing excessively complex solutions to a problem and focus on what works given the circumstances.
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
Hunger for Supper that Sparked Scratchbachttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Core-Team-2.png40002667Design Business Chamber SingaporeDesign Business Chamber Singaporehttps://dbcsingapore.org/wp-content/uploads/2022/12/Core-Team-2.png
Cheryl, one of the co-founders of Scratchbac shares about her motivation and inspiration behind the ground-up project.
Tell us a little more about yourself
My background is in mechanical engineering and product design. Since 2020, I’ve been working on a start-up I co-founded, Scratchbac, which is a proximity-based favour app where people in the community can give or receive help and resources from one another.
I am also currently pursuing my masters at Singapore University of Technology and Design (SUTD) under the Innovation by Design programme. Concurrently, I also volunteer at TechforShe, mentoring and helping to facilitate UIUX workshops.
I would say I have a strong passion for user-centric tech and aspire to make a difference in people’s lives and the community through innovative solutions to everyday problems.
I’m also a strong advocate for design thinking education and hope to help people of all ages to get into the design landscape.
How did Scratchbac come about?
My co-founders and I came to the idea of Scratchbac because of personal problems we faced during SG’s circuit breaker period. For me personally, circuit breaker came into implementation during my final term and by then, I was already quite used to ‘university hall life’ having stayed in hall for the past few years. So, one night I was up late rushing a project and really wanted supper. Normally, I would have no problem ‘jio-ing’ other students in our SUTD group chat to share delivery fees. But stuck at home, I had to either go hungry or bite the bullet and pay the exorbitant delivery costs myself. This started the train of thought: “Why can’t I just ‘jio’ the neighbours around me instead?”
What is your greatest learning experience from running Scratchbac?
That good design is far from just creating the perfect product. In the context of a start-up, everything is limited – time, money, manpower (and as a student start-up, we even lack experience). Early in the game, I often came up with crazy ideas and designs which I believed would solve the user problems in the best way possible. But often those ideas would get thrown out or be stuck in the backlog perpetually because they were just not feasible to be built with the resources that we had. It took a while but eventually I came to appreciate the idea of what we call the ‘build, measure, learn and iterate’ cycle. As a start-up, it’s not about building perfect versions of features from the get go but rather just what is good enough to test the hypothesis within our limited resources and building up from there.
It required a lot of humility on my part as a designer to move from seeing these limits as hindrances to appreciating them as opportunities for more nuanced learning. When development cycles are so tight, you are really forced to think hard about each decision you commit to making which I feel helps me grow as a designer as well.
As a Co-founder, has entrepreneurship changed the way you view the world?
Yeah definitely. One thing that is abundantly clear in entrepreneurship is that success doesn’t happen by accident. It happens by design. Of course, there is an element of luck or good timing in entrepreneurship – but fundamentally, if you don’t put the work in, you aren’t going to go anywhere.
So, if you have a problem that you’re passionate about solving, put in the work and get it done. Don’t get hung up on the what-ifs and naysayers. Get serious, double down and be confident in what you’re doing. People are naturally going to respect and respond to that.
How do you recharge after work? Do you prefer a social gathering or a quiet retreat?
For me, my work involves a lot of ‘social activity’, be it discussions with my teammates, talking to users or different stakeholders. So usually, I’m more than happy to spend weekday nights in, watching shows or YouTube to unwind.
Nevertheless, I’m quite a FOMO kind of person, so I rarely say no if my friends ever want to go out for some good food & drinks or for some heart to heart convos. Also at Scratchbac, we do have weekly ‘sports days’ where we try new sports together – which is a great way for us to get to know each other outside of work and to let off some steam if needed HAHA!
Are there any books or podcasts that have impacted your life deeply that you would recommend to your friends?
Hmmm deeply impacted… I’m not too sure but I recently read ‘Seven Brief Lessons on Physics’ by Carlo Rovelli which I found quite intriguing. (I think if I didn’t end up pursuing design, I would have considered going into research on quantum physics instead!). Other good Introduction to Design reads include ‘Nudge’ by Richard H. Thaler and Cass R. Sunstein, ‘Hooked’ by Nir Eyal, ‘The Mom Test’ by Rob Fitzpatrick.
As a winner of Singapore Design Awards and Singapore Good Design Awards (SG Mark), what does it mean to you?
Hahaha to be honest I was quite shocked when I found out we won. To see our tiny start-up up there with all these well-known companies is honestly extremely humbling and it’s definitely a huge honour. But for me, I think the biggest takeaway has to be the connection to the design community that these awards have opened the doors to. Getting to meet and learn from this wide array of talented designers and solutions has been a great experience that has challenged me to grow even more as a designer.
Like what you read? Follow us on Instagram, Facebook, Linkedin and Youtube to get the latest updates!
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
ZipBlind was created based on the company’s ethos of putting our customers first. With over 10 years of experience in the market, we studied the balcony needs of Singaporeans and gathered feedback from consumers who have purchased similar zip blind systems to create the ultimate blend of functionality and aesthetics.
Find out about Brian Tay a passionate creator who is empowering homeowners with visualizing what the perfect appliance or furniture looks like within their home.
Raffles Design collaborated with METRO (Singapore) and SF Fiber to create a stylish, versatile, and sustainable wardrobe for fashionable and busy professional ladies.
SNACK is the only financial lifestyle app for the ultimate flexibility in micro insurance and investments. You never have to worry about hefty monthly premiums or lock-in periods ever again.
