Their physical experience store for Clef, a beauty brand, called The Ethereal Cave interprets space, rhythm, and texture as a nod to the brand’s original offering—its iconic facial sheet mask. A monochromatic, ethereal atmosphere is created by the gentle white layers of fabric hung side by side to form three-dimensional, curving surfaces.
Another crowning jewel includes the first of a planned series of conceptual spaces called “Urban Bloom,” the newest flagship for Braun Buffel. Ignoring conventional notions, the focal point of the area is an abstract representation of a living tree that extends from the floor to the ceiling. The organic silhouette of the moss-covered piece provides a soothing counterpoint to the store’s open concept design, which tries to combine sculpture and architecture.
At the front of the store, two counters covered with green jade marble and equipped with glass vitrines showcase modest leather goods. Its organic green grains visually link the piece to the rest of the biophilic design. Punchy touches are added to the store further in by the orange onyx display counters.
Meanwhile, for Goodthai, a restaurant located in the heart of Shanghai city, the mythology of Apsara dancers comes into play. Regardless of the space or business, the firm is certainly living up to its name; alluding to the company’s audacious, futuristic, and immersive goals and its deep love of the cosmos.
FirstClasse sat down with Edward Tan for a quick chat on his influences and what keeps him inspired. Read more of our series with award-winning Malaysian designers here, produced in collaboration with Atap.co.
How would you describe your design philosophy?
I would like to think of ourselves as storytellers of space. We use architecture and interior design to create unique one-of-a-kind spatial experiences that tell stories and leave an emotional impact. I want people to put down their phones and be moved by the environments they are in. I try to approach each project with a minimal maximalism design philosophy.
Tell us about your first design project – what defined your style then?
My first project when I first started Spacemen was a cafe in Shanghai and back then it was more driven by what the clients wanted. It was very paired down and stripped of a lot of intricacies as it was a rather small budget to work on. The good thing is that it’s been 8 years and it’s actually still in Jing’an city center.
Now tell us about your most recent project – how has it changed since?
One of my most recent project, Coach Airways, was driven by a very strong narrative of celebrating the golden era of traveling in the 80s but we injected many modern elements such a glass light flooring and sleek membrane light features to accompany the retro color tones and furniture to create a unique design destination.
Where do you derive most of your inspiration?
I think as designers we need to be inspired by everything and it can happen on the whim anywhere and anytime. But I do get quite inspired on my travels. Going abroad to see other cultures and lifestyles is very important in allowing us as designers to broaden our senses, experiences, and insight. I also actually derive a lot of design concepts from nature. I have recreated many abstract interpretations of the natural environment in my interior architectural spaces.
What do you do when you’re feeling a little stuck with inspiration?
Going out for a nice long run or workout. It is always good to get a boost of endorphins for a reset. Catching a good movie is another escape for me as well. I love to pay closer attention to set designs when I watch shows as well. I always end up wondering how these set designers come up with such intricate designs.
Describe your style in three words.
Minimalist, maximalist, impactful.
What’s currently on your music playlist?
Post Malone, Imagine Dragons, John Mayer.
Who is your design icon?
Andre Fu, Gwenael Nicolas, Kengo Kuma, Neri & Hu. Too many to just name one!
Read more about his profile and work at Atap.co.
Contributing editor: Mabel Ho
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