What caught our eye was the unique way of spelling “AART”. By adding an extra “A” it seemed like AART BOXX INTERIOR has a unique story to tell in each of their projects. Today we dig deep with Ivan Lin “Aart Director” of Aart Boxx and find out more about their work and their passion.

What inspired you to become an interior designer/architect, and what continues to inspire you in your work today?

The elegance of architecture and the power of design have always ignited within me a desire to be a designer. I thrive on the opportunity to interact with people from diverse backgrounds, understanding their unique lifestyles and translating these insights into personalized designs that cater to their individual needs. Despite the challenges, the profound satisfaction derived from the successful completion of a project fuels my enduring passion. Seeing clients return, time and again, entrusting me with the transformation of their new homes, serves as a compelling incentive for me to continue perfecting my craft.

How do you approach the design process, from ideation to execution, and what steps do you take to ensure your designs meet the unique needs of each client?

Grasping a client's lifestyle is of paramount importance in my work. I engage in active dialogue, posing questions and listening intently to their responses. This enables me to analyse their needs and conceive a design tailor-made for them, ensuring that no two designs I create are identical. Delving deeper into their needs, understanding the challenges they faced in their previous homes, or even pinpointing what they cherished the most, provides me with valuable insights. This information allows me to synthesize my thoughts and propose the most suitable and appealing design for their new home.

What is your philosophy when it comes to designing interior spaces, and how do you balance aesthetic appeal with practical functionality?

While aesthetics plays a crucial role in design, I firmly believe that functionality takes precedence. My initial focus is on establishing a practical layout, after which I infuse aesthetic elements to strike a harmonious balance. Even when clients don't explicitly request aesthetic considerations, I make it a point to incorporate them subtly. Every project I undertake reflects my work and I strive to ensure it is never devoid of beauty or charm.

How do you stay up-to-date with the latest design trends and techniques, and how do you incorporate these into your work while maintaining your own unique style?

To stay abreast of the ever-evolving design landscape, I am an avid user of social media, constantly seeking out fresh trends and innovative ideas. Despite my extensive experience in the industry, I continue to attend product training sessions to keep myself up to date with the latest technologies and products. This continuous learning environment ensures a constant influx of new ideas, which I effortlessly weave into my daily design proposals.

What is your favourite project that you've worked on, and what made it so special to you?

One of the projects that stands out for me is a current assignment at a luxury condominium in Marina. The client envisioned a Maximalist concept, a style that is quite uncommon and one I had yet to explore. Despite this, I eagerly assured the client of my readiness to embrace this new challenge, driven by the exhilarating prospect of breaking new ground. I vividly recall asking the client, not as a sales pitch but from a place of genuine curiosity and excitement, to give me the opportunity to tackle this novel concept.

The process proved to be as challenging as it was enlightening. Many of the elements we incorporated were far removed from those typically used in our regular projects. Despite this, or perhaps because of it, I found the experience incredibly enriching. It provided me with a wealth of new insights and left me feeling deeply satisfied. 

How do you collaborate with other professionals, such as consultants or contractors, to ensure a seamless design and construction process?

We have established long-standing partnerships with reliable contractors, some of whom I have personally worked with for almost a decade or more. Our strong working relationships are built on mutual understanding and collaboration, which contribute to a seamless process. While perfection is elusive, we continuously fine-tune our operations to align with each other's style and preferences, ultimately enhancing the overall design and project outcomes.

Does your work allow you to practice sustainability, and if so, how do you incorporate sustainability and eco-friendliness into your designs, and why is this important to you and/or your firm?

As part of our commitment to align with government initiatives, we actively collaborate with suppliers and subcontractors who share our dedication to sustainability. We recognize the abundance of sustainable products available in the market and wholeheartedly support their adoption in our projects. By working together, we strive to create a more sustainable future for our industry and the environment.

How do you handle challenges that arise during the design process, such as unexpected setbacks or client requests that may conflict with your vision?

We must confront and address challenges rather than avoiding them. The design process can be demanding, with instances where inspiration may be elusive, and delays may occur. There are times when external pressures may push us to work under tight deadlines. In the event of unexpected difficulties, it is crucial to confront them head-on and resolve them promptly. I am committed to being transparent and honest with my clients, acknowledging any mistakes made and taking immediate steps to rectify them. Although it is unfortunate, there may be instances where clients may have conflicting visions or may deny previous agreements. While this situation should ideally be avoided, if it does arise, we will engage in open communication to find common ground and seek objective evidence to support our position and demonstrate that we have acted appropriately.

What advice would you give to aspiring interior designers/architects, and how can they develop their own unique style and approach to the field?

I have had the privilege of mentoring numerous aspiring interior designers, ranging from fresh graduates to those who have transitioned into full-time design careers. I believe that one of the first steps for them is to identify their favourite design style. By exploring various design approaches and learning from different mentors, they can discern the strengths and weaknesses of each approach and develop their own unique style. Sustaining passion is crucial throughout this journey. Additionally, being diligent, hardworking, and maintaining a lifelong commitment to learning are essential qualities in an industry that is brimming with diverse knowledge and constant evolution.

What do you hope to achieve in your career as an interior designer/architect, and what are some of the long-term goals you have for your work?

Both in the present and for the long term, my goal is to foster the growth of new designers and impart as much knowledge as possible to the upcoming generation. I am dedicated to equipping aspiring designers with the skills and insights needed to become successful professionals.

Any inspiring words you have for other designers or homeowners?

When engaging with interior designers as a homeowner, it is essential to thoroughly understand your own needs and desires. Engage in open discussions with your partners or family members before briefing the designers. Recognize that the designer's job is demanding, and making changes to proposals requires significant effort and time. By providing a clear and comprehensive brief from the outset, both parties can save time and make the design process more enjoyable. 

For designers, it is crucial to acknowledge that this profession is not easy and often involves high levels of pressure. However, by maintaining a burning passion for your craft and cultivating a positive mindset, each new project can become a source of great enjoyment. Embrace the challenges, find inspiration in the process, and strive to create exceptional designs that satisfy both your clients and your own creative aspirations.

It is absolutely true that passion is extremely necessary to fuel the profession. Thank you for inspiring us and congratulations is becoming our AUGUST DOTM!

Posted on 6th October 2023

Written by Astley Ng The Designerd

SIXiDES Editorial Team