Interview with Rix Yap
He is a visionary designer with a passion for creating unique and groundbreaking concepts that defy convention.
Designer Interview
28 June 2024
I hold a prestigious Bachelor's degree from USM. My design journey evolved from working on government flats to crafting luxury interiors in Singapore. I specialize in rebuilding and Additions & Alterations (A&A) for landed houses, transforming them into modern, functional, and visually stunning residences.
Coming from a middle-class family with tailor parents, I developed an early appreciation for art. My parents proudly displayed my drawings, fostering my talent. Initially, I aspired to be a fashion designer, but my country lacked suitable universities for that field. Fortunately, there was a local university offering an interior design course, which I pursued with passion and dedication.
Coming from a middle-class family with tailor parents, I developed an early appreciation for art. My parents proudly displayed my drawings, fostering my talent. Initially, I aspired to be a fashion designer, but my country lacked suitable universities for that field. Fortunately, there was a local university offering an interior design course, which I pursued with passion and dedication.
Our boutique studio excels in crafting unique, non-ordinary yet functional designs and spaces. We are committed to exploring innovative and enduring designs that challenge conventional thinking and enhance user experiences.
For me, design is about creating something unique and functional, not mass-produced, that brings tangible benefits to the user. It should provide a new or fresh experience that engages the senses in ways the user has never encountered before, ensuring they feel comfortable and truly enjoy the space.
I enjoy designing residential buildings, public spaces, and commercial spaces that involve architectural elements. I believe that the interior is influenced by the exterior, and both must align to achieve a significant impact that benefits users.
My favorite design project so far is a lighting shop that has won several international awards. This project stands out to me because the client embraced nearly 80% of my design vision. The landscaping and choice of materials allowed this project to truly shine, with all design elements seamlessly coming together. It serves as a prime example of cohesive interior and exterior design.
The first thing I designed for my company was the logo. I believe this logo represents the path I wish to pursue: simple yet meaningful, embodying all the aspects I aim to achieve.
My favorite materials are natural wood and stones. I believe these materials, which have been used since the Stone Age era, have a timeless quality that will endure forever.
When client trusted you 90%
I primarily focus on the needs of the user and how the design benefits them.
When I design I feel sense happiness and sometimes selflessly
Sense of successful and happiness
When the design truly appreciated by the users and others designers
I primarily focus on the needs of the user and how the design benefits them, ensuring it aligns with the user's experiences and maintains balance and harmony with the surroundings.
The responsibility of a designer is to enhance both the aesthetics and practicality of a space, ensuring that users can enjoy a more lasting and quality design.
Design is evolving rapidly, increasingly influenced by AI and various tools. However, the future of design hinges on top-tier designers whose knowledge surpasses AI capabilities. They create emotional value and innovative designs that have never been seen before, challenging AI's predictive abilities.
My last exhibition was 10 years ago during my university days. I hope to showcase my designs again within the next 5 years.
My design creativity comes from daily observations of nature and my feelings toward spaces and objects in public, as well as studying online design platforms.
My design style revolves around natural elements like ventilation, wind, light, movement, shadow, greenery, and natural materials such as wood and stone. A key aspect is integrating the exterior environment into the interior, as I believe living in natural settings promotes better health compared to enclosed spaces.
Living in Southeast Asia, I find the multicultural environment allows me to incorporate natural elements into my designs, creating a tropical and cozy atmosphere. I feel inspired and happy with these designs. However, I worry they may not resonate as well in cooler and less vibrant environments.
I often prioritize others' needs and place myself in a secondary position to enable other companies to showcase their true potential.
In working with a designer, trust is paramount. It's essential to find someone with whom you have chemistry, who can effectively address your issues, listen attentively to your needs, and passionately dedicate themselves to designing and resolving your challenges.
My design process always begins with listening to and understanding the client's issues and aspirations for improvement. I then explore creative solutions through design research, putting myself in their shoes to deeply understand and resolve their challenges.
My ditoo speaker, my laptop, my mouse, my cute cement figure and toy figures
I start my day by nourishing myself with good food and coffee, followed by exploring different design online platforms. I plan my schedule for drawings and attend site or client meetings. Back at the office, I immerse myself in designing and drawing. After another meal, I relax by watching dramas or jogging before ending the day with sleep.
Don't blindly follow the advice of older designers; explore and develop your own ideas. However, it's important to avoid overconfidence, as some advice from experienced designers can be invaluable.
Positives: Being different from others can make your career admirable to some people.
Negatives: However, you may also encounter challenges such as dealing with unpaid balances and disrespect from those who undervalue design.
Negatives: However, you may also encounter challenges such as dealing with unpaid balances and disrespect from those who undervalue design.
Always evolve your design through stages. There's no perfect design, but by progressing step by step, you can achieve the most suitable design for each stage of development.
Critical thinking and fast problem-solving skills are essential in design.
Auto Cad, sketch up and Vray. Pencil and paper
I tend to deeply immerse myself in my design work, which can affect my time management. However, I am committed to setting timelines for each project to ensure efficient progress.
No fix time. Can be a day , a year or forever
How to lower the cost
When I was in a design builder company which forced my to design and built 2-3 story houses with my main cond.
Verde light, some high post manager or directors or some properties agents, lawyer, friends, influencers and etc
Commercial, more rooms to play
I am planning to pursue better projects, such as designing 2-3 story buildings and luxury brand stores, with the aim of elevating my name in the market.
I develop my design myself
Currently, I'm engaged in a fantastic residential project where the client has placed 90% trust in me, allowing full implementation of my design concepts and choice of materials. Additionally, I'm refurbishing a multi-function hall in a condo, aiming to significantly enhance its value through thoughtful redesign.
info@r-plus-studio.com
rix@r-plus-studio.com
rix@r-plus-studio.com
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