10 mins with...

OLIVIA LEE, principle designer and founder of OLIVIA LEE

What is the philosophy of OLIVIA LEE?

My design studio is grounded by an industrial design approach but pivots from product to spatial design, from research insights to ideation, with the goal of creating unique experiences. I focus on uncovering new rituals and behaviours, navigating the tension between tradition and the future, and bringing brands into unexplored territories through design and narrative.

What is the future of the industrial design sector in Singapore?

The convergence between design and technology definitely excites me. 3D-printing, smart furniture, virtual and augmented experiences, robotics and AI are some exciting frontiers for design. I believe design’s role is to go beyond the novelty and spectacle — to help identify needs, the human context, emotional experience, assign meaning and beauty to technology.

What has been your most memorable or standout experience thus far on this journey?

It was my Athena Collection – shown at Salonesatellite 2017. It was all about how technology is changing our lives. The collection is a range of objects that are technological in an analogue sense. They don’t involve any electronics but they work together with the way we use social media, video calls on our phones, and have such an intimate relationship with our handheld devices.

That was why I created a rug with tactile details and borders to demarcate virtual and physical space during gaming or VR use; a series of sceptres with various functions (from swivelling smartphone holder to personal mirror); and a tray table to cater to laptop use and leisure.

What’s your favourite comfort food?

I am not really into carbohydrates, but I have a real soft spot for glutinous rice and will probably eat anything that includes it. My favourite will be the Classic Cantonese Sticky Rice with Chinese Sausage and Mushrooms at Taste Paradise Ion Orchard. Unfortunately, they seem only to serve this dish during Chinese New Year as I heard the preparation is tedious. So I eat myself silly during that period.

What is your favourite dining destination in the world?

Prague! I stumbled upon La Degustation Bohême Bourgeoise. It is set in a historic building at the end of a narrow lane, surprisingly stylish, with bespoke chandeliers hung above tables inlaid with slices of oak. My favourite was the gelatinous tomato meringue that melts to release honey and balsamic vinegar.