Dive into Find – Design Fair Asia, the newest splash from Singapore Design Week!
When & Where
From September 22 to 24, 2022 at the flashy Marina Bay Sands Exhibition Centre. Imagine a chic loft with a splash of neon.
Six Pillars of Design Brilliance
- Country Pavilions – Where culture takes center stage and turns every corner into a postcard.
- Italian Design Futures Capsule – The espresso‑powered heart of Italy’s art of making things look and feel awesome.
- Italy Celebrates – A whirlwind of creativity, skill, and design thinking that would make any Italian wince… in a good way.
- EMERGE @ Find – Spotlighting over 50 rising creators from Asia – the future is already rolling out the welcome mat.
- … and Two More Secret Pillars! – Because if you’re going to wow an audience, you need a little mystery.
Come, be part of a three‑day affair that’s about to turn your design dreams into reality, one exquisite piece at a time.
Inside the Design Fair magic
Ever wondered what it feels like to stroll through EMERGE @ Find, where sleek, savvy designers are turning tiny HDB lofts and brand‑new private homes into living works of art? We sat down with three of the most sizzling stylists on the scene to spill the beans on how to transform compact spaces into binge‑worthy sanctuaries.
Meet the design trio
- Alex “Colour‑Pulse” Lin – the maestro of “pop‑of‑colour” in small spaces.
- Sophia “Form & Function” Tan – the queen of clever storage hacks.
- Jade “Mood‑Board” Liu – the guru of vibe‑setting lighting and textures.
From HDB to Haute
Alex drops a truth bomb: “If you think a HDB flat is a design challenge, think again – it’s a playground.” He’s all about bold palettes that zing up dull corners, and he loves cutting ribbons of wallpaper that give the wall a “wow” factor without blowing the budget.
Storage with a side of style
Sophia shares her favorite trick: “Use every millimetre! Think vertically, stack smart, and embrace the hidden. A bookshelf that doubles as a seating piece does more than hold books – it holds your sanity.”
The lighting lift
And Jade? She’s the one who whispers, “Lights are the unsung super‑hero of a room.” She recommends layering diffuse LED strips, a bit of fairy‑string magic, and a sculptural lamp that resembles more modern art than household decor.
Grand takeaway
Design can be a high‑tech, low‑cost, high‑impact affair. Whether you’re squeezing style into an HDB or flaunting a brand‑new condo, the secret sauce is versatility, clever colour, and a touch of personality. And don’t forget: the best interior secrets usually come from conversation—so ask, experiment, and let your space live!
Alvin Tjitrowirjo: Imperfectly perfect natural spaces
Meet Alvin Tjitrowirjo: The Indonesian Design Maverick
For the past ten years, Alvin Tjitrowirjo has been building a reputation that’s as solid as his furniture designs—no Brittle Underwear Moment needed. Born in Indonesia, he stayed true to his roots while turning his craft into a global brand: AlvinT plus the eclectic Shape of Thoughts studio.
Why He’s Not Your Typical “Corporate” Designer
Alvin’s frustration? The endless gap between creative vision, material reality, and the planet itself. He claims that the relentless push for profit and growth has left the world feeling like a “perfectly manufactured, uninformed, soulless” space—like a vacuum cleaner in an empty office. And nobody wants that, especially when it’s draining the vibe from living rooms.
Key Points in His Design Philosophy
- Rooted in Origin: Keeps the Indonesian soul in every rod of wood.
- Eco‑First: Think of it as a sustainable swagger—less plastic, more nature.
- Human‑Centric: Spaces that feel alive, not just like a showroom.
What’s on the Horizon?
Alvin isn’t stopping there—he’s ready to bring the world a little less “perfect” and a lot more personal. With a blend of humor and heartfelt warmth, his journey reminds us that innovation and authenticity can go hand in hand—and look good while doing it!
Alvin’s Craft: Handmade Wonders, Not Just DIY
Alvin isn’t just molding rattan or weaving bamboo; he’s weaving the very essence of what makes us human. Imagine every piece shape‑shifting with a touch of personal flair – that’s the secret sauce behind his one‑of‑a‑kind creations.
Why “Oops, Not Perfect” is the New Trend
- Human‑Made, Machine‑Impossible: No robotic arm can replicate the subtle tilt or curve that a skilled hand brings to a rattan bowl.
- Every Curve Tells a Story: The slight miss‑alignment isn’t a flaw; it’s a wink from the maker.
- Limited Runs, Unlimited Charm: You’re not buying a mass‑produced item; you’re snagging a collector’s treasure.
Alvin’s Vision on Sustainability
“At alvinT, we’re re‑thinking green. It’s not about slapping a label on a product; it’s about crafting fewer, higher‑quality pieces that stand the test of time. Less is more, and in our case, it’s also means producing less waste.
A Quirky Takeaway
Think of him as a Renaissance sculptor of the 21st century, except instead of marble, he’s got rattan, and instead of cathedral spires, he’s building your living room’s “wow” factor.
Smart Space Design Tips
Want a room that feels wide enough to move around and bright enough to feel alive? Start by ditching clutter, then give the space some negative space—think of it as a breathing room for your furniture. Lighting isn’t just a pretty accessory; when you spotlight specific areas, it acts like a visual boundary, carving out distinct zones without a wall.
Quick Checklist for a Breezy, Well‑Lit Room
- Clear the clutter: Stop keeping stuff that doesn’t spark joy.
- Leave white space: Let the walls breathe; avoid crowding every corner.
- Use strategic lighting: Focus on where you want people to feel themselves—be it a cozy reading nook or a lively dining table.
- Create visual zones: Let lighting define separate areas without needing physical dividers.
Put these ideas into action, and your space will shout “organized” without it feeling like a prison. Enjoy the fresh, open vibe!
Phuong Dao: A multipurpose pairing of tradition & innovation
Phuong Dao’s Cà Ràng: Turning Kitchens into Chic
Living in the buzzing heart of Ho Chi Minh City, designer Phuong Dao is taking the humble Vietnamese cooking stove and giving it a high‑fashion makeover.
From Food Fire to Furniture Flair
- Check out Cà Ràng—a line that takes inspiration from the old‑school stove that used to be the family’s go‑to spot for stories and noodles.
- But no 1970s vibes here. Dao has swapped the backyard hearth for a sleek coffee table and matching stools—perfect for today’s living‑room crowd.
- Every piece is built from waste materials, so you’re not just making a statement—you’re part of the planet’s clean‑up.
Why It Matters
Think about it: most families no longer light a fire in the kitchen—so why not bring that warmth back into the living room? Dao balances cultural nostalgia with modern design in a way that feels both familiar and fresh.
See It Live
Catch the full showcase at EMERGE @ Find—where the past meets the future, one eco‑friendly piece at a time.
Turning Trash into Treasure: Phuong’s Eco‑Adventure
Phuong thinks of waste not as garbage but as a secret Swiss Army knife, waiting for someone to unlock its hidden talents.
Why Waste Doesn’t Need to Be a Bad Word
- Redefining the “Trash” Narrative – Instead of seeing discarded items as mere refuse, she encourages us to treat them as normal, everyday materials.
- New Concept, Old Comfort – “It’s a fresh idea, but don’t let that scare you away,” she says, reminding us that the old adage “if it’s good enough for you, it’s good enough for me” applies to trash too.
- Embracing the Unexpected – Once you decide to accept a piece of waste for what it is, you’ll discover a surprisingly cozy and rewarding experience in the process.
Phuong’s message? Grab your tongs, your creative spark, and a pinch of optimism – and let the waste start a new chapter of its life. After all, who knows what treasures lie just waiting for a second‑hand upgrade?
Redesigning Our Homes for Flexible Living
Hey folks, imagine your apartment being a superhero‑capable space—ready for a quick movie night, a surprise dinner party, or even a last‑minute poetry gathering. That’s the vision the designer has on the horizon.
Why Flexibility Matters
- Urban living often means squatting in a cozy two‑bedroom, so every square foot counts.
- Multipurpose rooms, like a living room that can turn into a study or a lounge that can become a dining area, add real value.
- Easy transformations let you host friends, work, or chill without a home makeover.
Invest in Smart, Multi‑Functional Pieces
Think of a sofa that can fold into a futon overnight or a coffee table with hidden drawers. These “life‑hack” furniture pieces free up space and save you the headache of juggling multiple items.
Wabi‑Sabi: The Art of Imperfect Beauty
Phuong isn’t kidding—Wabi‑Sabi will keep stealing the show. It blends craftsmanship with the aesthetic of natural flaws, giving homes a relaxed, authentic vibe.
So, whether you’re scaling the city stairs or just looking to make your place groove, blending flexible furniture with Wabi‑Sabi charm could make your living space feel like a living, breathing muse.
Mismatched elements make for design interest
Jim Zarate‑Torres: Brewing Innovation on a Metal Canvas
When you think of design, you might picture sleek polymers or glossy leather. Jim Zarate‑Torres—Filipino designer and café owner—took a coffee‑first approach to show that creativity can spill from the espresso machine straight onto the showroom floor.
From Coffee Grounds to Chic
- Material Genesis: The scarcity of solid wood in the Philippines nudged Jim to look for alternative textures. He turned to cast coffee grounds—the leftovers from his own café, Zarate Manila—turning them into a tactile, earthy base for his new line.
- Metal‑Moments: Coupled with bold metal elements, the collection creates a contrast that feels both industrial and intimate.
- Social Story: Each piece tells a story of waste reuse, community collaboration, and a nod to the bustling Filipino coffee culture.
Why It Matters
The Find – Design Fair Asia has taken “Materiality” as its rallying cry, urging designers to explore the essence of what they use. Jim’s runway‑worthy fusion perfectly marries that theme with a playful urge to see the brilliance in everyday discard.
So the next time you walk past a cafe, remember: behind the mugs and scoops of sugar might be the next bold design statement. Jim is proving that with a little creativity—and hardly any wood—you can keep the planet, your community, and your style on solid footing.
The Secret Sauce to a Design that Pops
Jim drops this nugget of wisdom: “If you want your spaces to feel fresh, you gotta mix materials—it’s like putting a dash of spice into a dish. Without that stir, you’re just serving a plain salad.”
Why Mixing Materials Rocks
- Innovation – Throwing together different textures and styles keeps the design vivid and forward‑thinking.
- Luxury Boost – The clash of contrasting textures gives the product a silky, elegant sheen, making everything feel like a high‑end showpiece.
- Unique Personality – The distinctive grain and finish become the product’s signature, turning it into a story rather than just a piece.
Jim’s Take on Harmonic Design
“When every material talks to each other, the whole piece becomes harmonious and stunning.” He believes that you should be bold enough to let textures collide, yet subtle enough to keep a balanced look he paints as the ultimate luxury.
Bottom Line
Mixing materials isn’t a chore—it’s the dance that turns ordinary into extraordinary. So go ahead, feel the textures, taste the styles, and watch your design turn into a one‑of‑a‑kind masterpiece.
Design Magic from Jim: Keep It Classic, Keep It Cool
Ever wonder how a few smart choices can turn a cramped corner into a timeless haven? Jim’s got the cheat sheet.
1⃣ The Big Rule: Buy Things That Last
- Think durability > trendiness. A sturdy chest or a flexible lamp can outshine a splash of color that fades after a season.
- Quality builds confidence—nothing says “I’ve got this” like a piece that keeps its charm month after month.
2⃣ The Secret Sauce: Form + Function = Innovation
- When you marry shape with purpose, you get a design that’s as useful as it is stylish.
- No more guesswork: choose items that fit the space perfectly and still leave room for your coffee mug or weekend yoga mats.
3⃣ Compact Living? No Problem!
Jim’s mantra: Build longevity in tight spots. Small rooms can feel huge when you mix practical, long‑lasting pieces with a fresh, contemporary vibe.
Quick Takeaway
- Invest in high‑quality, functional pieces—watch them glow for years.
- Balance looks with real use; the best designs are those that get you along while staying chic.
- In the tiniest spaces, smarter, resilient choices make all the difference.
Pause, rethink your container, and let Jim’s wisdom guide the way you turn a space from ordinary to extraordinary.
Statement pieces that speak volumes
Hans Tan: Tiny Marvels with Big Stories
Hans Tan, the Singaporean designer and educator, turns every project into a lively tale about heritage, consumption and waste. In his eponymous studio, he crafts pieces that look like clever little ornaments yet carry a punch of cultural commentary.
Why the Size Matters
- Small scale, big impact – he makes art that fits on a coffee table but speaks louder than a giant mural.
- Eco‑edge – recycled materials meet playful design, proving that less can be more.
- Educator vibe – he shares lessons that grow beyond the showroom.
In a nutshell
Peanut-sized yet profound, Tan’s work reminds us that the most powerful stories can live in the smallest frames. With humor and heart in every detail, he keeps the conversation lively and unforgettable.
Hans’ Fresh Take on Vintage Porcelain
From Thrift Stores to Artistic Alchemy
Hans isn’t just chasing shiny trends; he’s on a scavenger hunt in second‑hand shops, turning forgotten porcelain into conversation starters.
The “Erase-It” Experiment
He lets glass‑inspired tech take a back seat. Swabbing away glaze with a pinch of aluminium oxide, the pieces glow with a subtle boredom‑to‑amusement shift.
Why This Ruckus?
- It creates a playful “erasing” effect—like a ghostly ninja swipe.
- It forces viewers to question what it means to finish an artwork.
- It keeps ornamentation on a side‑kick, letting the vessel’s structure take center stage.
Seeing the Story from Every Angle
Depending on where you stand, the pieces can tempt you with…
- A glimpse of the original porcelain before flash‑blasted.
- Its new, stripped-down look after the treatment.
- A mind‑blowing overlay that lets both worlds coexist in one frame.
Feel the Flair
This whimsical art prank reminds us that sometimes a splash of aluminium oxide can turn a plain routine into a dazzling spectacle—and maybe even echo the voice of a forgotten artisan from yesteryear.
In a Nutshell
Hans takes vintage porcelain, removes its glaze with aluminium oxide, and delivers a cheeky visual dialogue that flips between past and present—no high‑tech lab required.
Discover the Design Hub for 2022
Ever felt like your design vibe is stuck in a loop? The Find – Design Fair Asia 2022 is your ticket to a whirlwind of inspiration, creativity and a few laughs.
Why this fair is the ultimate design pick‑up
Find is not just another expo; it’s a mash‑up of multi‑disciplinary powerhouses and specialized studios where every corner is bursting with fresh ideas. Think of it as a design smoothie—mix of trends, techniques, and those “aha!” moments that keep your projects from going stale.
What’s waiting for you
- Meet the designers – a crowd of creatives who juggle everything from UI/UX to eco‑friendly architecture.
- Absorb sensibilities – dive into how different cultures and disciplines mash into unique styles.
- Catch the latest trends – from biodegradable materials to AR interfaces, see which innovations are shaping tomorrow’s aesthetics.
- Live workshops and talks – boost your skill set while you swap stories with industry pros.
- Have a laugh – design mishaps, meme‑inspired talks, and a vibe that says: YES, you’re in the right place.
Save the date
Mark your calendar: September 22–24, 2022, at the Marina Bay Sands Expo and Convention Centre, 10 Bayfront Ave, Singapore 018956.
Zoom into the buzz
Sign up for the event, soak in the energy, and come home with fresh insights that will level up your design hustle. The fair’s digital and onsite resources are all set to help you navigate the design world like a pro.
This piece debuted on City Nomads, celebrating sustainability and creativity at the intersection of design and culture. Stay tuned for more cutting‑edge design tales.
