Name: Vivienne Tam
Company: Vivienne Tam
Position within company: Founder and Chief Designer
Website: viviennetam.com
. Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)
I am a graduate of the Hong Kong Polytechnic. I am known for my culture-bridging, East-meets-West approach to design as well as pioneering global collaborations marrying fashion with technology. I am also the author of the award winning book China Chic and pieces from my collections are housed in the permanent archives of the world’s most prestigious museums including the Metropolitan Museum of Art in New York and the Victoria and Albert Museum in London.
. How would you describe your personal design style?
I am interested in my heritage and cultural background. My style is defined by my sense of history, technology and new materials.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
It comes from my roots and my travels.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
One direction is towards nature with more hands-on and human approach. The other is more technology focused. I am a marriage of the two.
. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2015 and beyond.
Chinese cosmology of the Five Elements : Metal, Wood, Water, Fire, Earth.
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Passion, consideration and reflection. When there is a will, there is a way.
. How important are The International Hotel and Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
It’s very flattering to be nominated. It’s very encouraging and a validation of my work.
. What projects are you currently working on?
I am developing Power chargers ( for mobile devices) with Gold Peak International.
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Get some rest.
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
My boyfriend’s emerald earrings.
Your favourite holiday destination?
Bhutan.
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Mandarin Oriental / ABC Kitchen, Jean George, NYC / Café Gray Bar, The Upper House, Hong Kong
Your favourite book / film / song?
My book-China Chic / American Hustle / What a Wonderful World by Louis Armstrong
Your favourite food and drink?
Organic berries / Coconut juice
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon? (in no more than 25 words)
Lying around in my apartment and enjoying the sun by the balcony.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
I was born a designer