Name: Angela Lim
Company: SuMisura of Numero Uno Creative Group
Position within company: Co-founder
Website: www.sumisura.asia
. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I graduated with a degree in Bachelor of Arts degree and worked in a few MNCs before I stumbled upon a design consultancy firm with an international base of designers. After a seven year stint at the firm, I finally decided to start SuMisura in year 2009. It was after founding SuMisura did I truly enjoy the freedom of designing and truly indulging in gorgeous interiors that I could call my own.
. How would you describe your personal interior design style?
I like to blend simple classic details into well-balanced, symmetrical, contemporary interiors. In recent times, I also find myself being drawn to strong punch of colours which can be projected through the decorations and accessories in my works.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
My design inspiration comes from the little things that I see everyday. It can be from the new window dressing at a fashion boutique that I pass by or a restaurant that I frequent. More significantly, it would be from the many trips that I have made to the world’s leading city for fashion, Milan.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
I feel that design is generally moving towards efficiency and being green. It is also something that Singapore schools and government are advocating. There is an increased awareness among many of our clients to go green and reduce our carbon footprint by going with better and bigger suppliers who has put in R&D to produce more environmentally friendly materials.
. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2016 and beyond.
1. Client’s current and future needs.
2. Design potential of the space. There will not be much value added to the space if a designer focuses only on piling on nice pieces of furniture and decorations. The space must be made right and functionally from the start.
3. Available technology and resources
4. Sustainability and durability of materials used
5. Enhancing the designs by using bespoke furniture
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to interior design schemes, what would it be?
Always work with a timeless base and preferably a neutral palette to start so the design schemes can be changed or improved upon easily. I would usually work with a neutral palette for big pieces of furniture, walls, floor and ceiling while the rest of the smaller decorations can come in the desired style, colours or themes as wished.
. How important are The International Design and Architecture Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
I think it’s a great platform for designers and architects to showcase their works. Winning the award would be most rewarding as it represents the recognition for one’s piece of work well done.
. What projects are you currently working on?
Residential projects in the Asia region so we are currently doing some travelling. Private commissions involving good class bungalows and a couple of high end show apartments in collaboration with foreign star architects. We are also working hard on the new release of SuMisura Petite, an online platform for our clients n fans to purchase our range of cushions n accessories.
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
We can’t wait to complete all the super exciting projects under our pipeline so that we can enjoy the sweet rewards of grateful and happy clients.
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My family
Your favourite holiday destination?
The highly energized Vegas where one seem to have more than 16 waking hours a day.
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
The Mezza9 at the Grand Hyatt Singapore because it holds many good memories for me.
Your favourite book / film / song?
It’s a toss up between a few good movies (The Sixth Sense, The Prestige and Limitless) but I generally like thrillers with intelligent plot and unexpected twists.
Your favourite food and drink?
Fresh Italian seafood stew with crispy garlic bread paired with a nice glass of champagne or Prosecco.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Living near the equator means hiding in a breezy seaside cafe with few friends to enjoy good wines and cheese or latte with cakes.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
A pastry chef. It’s similar to creating pieces of art except that it’s faster and sweeter.
Anything else interesting?
I play competitive sports and am a contributing writer for a regional property magazine.