PRESTIGIOUS LUXURY

Jeremy Tay, co-founder of Prestige Global Designs, reveals why form and function are inseparable in luxury interiors, and offers his take on the top design trends to watch in 2017

Decked in a luxurious combination of gold and cream, the new studio space of Prestige Global Designs at River Valley Road manages the feat of pairing grandeur with comfort. For that, the studio was recognised at the recent Asia Pacific Property Awards during which it bagged a further five accolades. Founded by established interior designers Jeremy Tay and Michael Ong, the design practice has collected a string of awards ever since its inception in 2008. Not one to rest on its laurels however, the design practice is determined to bring itself to greater heights in Singapore and beyond. Singapore Tatler Homes speaks to Tay, the mastermind behind some of the firm’s most recognised interior design projects—such as the Prestige Global Designs studio and Dharmawangsa Residence II in Indonesia—to learn more about the practice and its plans for the year.

What does “prestige” mean to you?

Prestige means refinement, finesse and good taste. At Prestige Global Designs, we always seek to improve our work. We look for opportunities to bring our designs to an international platform in our constant pursuit to elevate our designs to a higher level.

Could you tell us about your design philosophy?

We place equal emphasis on form and function. We believe that interiors should be aesthetically appealing to our clients while being functional and suited to their lifestyle. As famed American architect Frank Lloyd Wright said, “Form follows function—that has been misunderstood. Form and function should be one, joined in a spiritual union”.

In your opinion, what are the key traits of a good interior designer?

A good interior designer is a creative and resourceful problemsolver; someone who can make things happen, based on the client’s unique needs.

What are some of the top trends in luxury homes that you anticipate in 2017?

First is the Contemporary Classic look, which is all about timeless and squarish forms infused with classical details, especially on the walls. It will also feature furniture loosely placed throughout the home, in neutral colours such as dark brown. Another trend to watch is Chinoiserie, an ideal combination of oriental elements and classical decor, featuring colours such as black, gold, turquoise and brown. Finally, the Art Deco style, which features sunburst motifs, glass and mirrors, as well as colours such as gold, black and white.

“A GOOD INTERIOR DESIGNER IS A CREATIVE AND RESOURCEFUL PROBLEM-SOLVER.”