Designer Profile
Creating elegant interiors for their discerning clients is second nature to Prestige Global Designs
Opulent interiors by award-winning practice Prestige Global Designs
MSCIENCE OF DESIGN
ichael Ong and Jeremy Tay almost need no introduction—the co-founders of Prestige Global Designs are widely recognised as two of Singapore’s leading interior designers. Their multi-award winning practice is regularly called upon by the rich, famous, and discerning looking for a new interior scheme. How Ong and Tay became such prominent industry figures is something of a marvel. Ong is a former cabin crew while Tay, who has a PHD had worked in education. Although neither had planned on becoming interior specialists, the design duo had a winning combination—sharp eye for design, a gentle manner and sheer hard work. They do, however, credit their former careers with giving them something of an edge. “There’s a certain science to design as we seek the perfect balance between pragmatism and aesthetics,” quips Tay, as he attempts to explain how he has bridged the gap between biotechnology and moodboards. “It’s actually not unlike chemical equilibrium.” It was Ong who came up with Prestige Global Designs (then known as Prestige Interiors), having studied interior design on a whim in London; Tay joined him in 2008. Together, they lean towards a classic European style, favouring intricate wall panelling over bare bricks, while working with traditional tones to create an elegant mood. Little wonder perhaps that they count some of Singapore’s most sophisticated addresses among their past successes.
THE FAMILY TOUCH
One of their latest projects was a townhouse in Pavilion Park, the recently completed luxury development in leafy Bukit Batok. Tasked with creating a homey atmosphere in an otherwise fairly austere building, they began by taking into consideration the client’s family situation. “The client has three young children, so we wanted to do something fun yet still luxurious,” explains Tay, displaying the kind of thoughtfulness for which the pair are known for. “Just outside the powder room for example, we installed a Marvel heroes artwork to create that sense of fun.” This family-friendly approach can be found throughout the house, with details such as the step-ups in each of the children’s bathrooms ensuring that the home is actually livable, rather than being just a beautiful showpiece. It is what makes Tay and Ong firm favourites among those who want to retain a stylish lifestyle even with little ones in the picture.
LEFT TO RIGHT
This awardwinning project in Leedon Residence features a striking trompe l’oeil artwork depicting train tracks by the dining area as well as a plush array of textures; Prestige Global Designs co-founders Jeremy Tay and Michael Ong
UNABASHED OPULENCE
As is fitting of their signature aesthetic, Prestige Global Designs frequently works closely with luxury brands to furnish their projects; Hermès, Baccarat and Giorgetti are just some of their regular go-tos. Similarly opulent pieces were used in the renovation of a luxury condominium in the Dharmawangsa Residences in Jakarta, Indonesia. The owners of the 3,500sqft abode had opted for a cream and pearly white scheme. To bring the space to life, Tay and Ong injected some eyecatching features including two chandeliers by Saint-louis, one of the oldest glassmakers in Europe. These chandeliers, along with the Thomas Pheasant-designed furniture, make for an arresting interior that exemplifies what Prestige Global Design aims to do—to make exceptional homes for each one of their clients, surpassing even the original brief. “We seek to exceed the expectations of each of our clients, even if they are already accustomed to the finest things in life,” explains Tay.
Occasionally, this may mean surprising the client by either proposing elements that they may not have thought of or even bypassing certain requests. In the case of a recent project at Corals at Keppel Bay, Tay and Ong made the decision to reinterpret the client’s request to use substantial amounts of gold. “Because of the penthouse’s close proximity to the sea, we felt it would be more suitable if the use of metal was reduced,” explains Tay. “Instead, we introduced elements of gold through other materials such as decorative wooden frames, an ebony veneer with golden streaks, bronze tinted mirrors and gold accessories.” They also went beyond the brief by proposing that several structural elements be revised, and began by adding a bar to run the length of the reception area. “Our client was a little surprised by the bar addition,” admits Tay. “But guests are always impressed by it. It acts as a subtle segregation between the living and dining areas without blocking the light and it is also really convenient to serve drinks on. On quiet days, the family can also enjoy breakfast here and admire the magnificent views outside.” A curved wall was transformed from an awkward dead space into a feature wall and the guest room also doubles as a study, courtesy of some clever mechanics involving a foldaway bed and a sliding desk. “The client was really pleased with the outcome,” beams Tay. It has also been a resounding success at the International Property Awards 2018, held in May; this project received a total of five accolades this year, for its stunning interiors.
“WE SEEK TO EXCEED THE EXPECTATIONS OF EACH OF OUR CLIENTS, EVEN IF THEY ARE ALREADY ACCUSTOMED TO THE FINEST THINGS IN LIFE”