Amazing Grace
SS + D takes pride in crafting spaces that thoughtfully combine art with design
Sam Loh founded interior design firm SS + D in 2013, but his interest in design began much earlier. Loh has always been fascinated with art and design, a passion that was sparked when he redecorated his family home during his childhood. Backed by two decades of experience in interior design, Loh has crafted stylish residential and commercial spaces across the country, often drawing inspiration from his travels.
The designer firmly believes in combining the best of art and design when conceptualising his projects. “We love working with traditional pen-and-pencil sketches while employing digital tools for artist’s impressions, renderings and CAD drawings,” he shares. Last year, the studio started offering commissioned artworks in various mediums to suit the theme for each space. Here, the designer speaks about his creative approach and future plans for the firm.
How did you become an interior designer?
I was fortunate to grow up with parents who allowed me to explore my own interests; my insatiable curiosity for design grew throughout my early years. I chose interior design as my course of study at Nafa (Nanyang Academy of Fine Arts), as I felt that designing actual spaces would give me great personal satisfaction.
How would you describe your firm’s design philosophy?
Whenever we embark on a new project, the first thing that comes to mind is how we can maximise the potential of existing elements within the space while striking a balance between aesthetics and practicality. Our goal is to create thoughtful and liveable spaces for our clients.
Which project are you most proud of ? A recent job that we completed at Nim Terrace is definitely one of the most memorable. The clients of this semi-detached house like koi and plants, especially bonsai, so we converted part of the car porch into a koi pond and a corridor into a bonsai showcase.
Are there any designers or artists you particularly admire?
I admire Andre Fu of AFSO and Steve Leung of SLD Group. I like the ways that they apply textiles and materials, in ways that are precise yet sumptuous.
I also admire artists such as Adi Gunawan and Rainer Lagemann, who express a sense of motion so beautifully through their sculptures.
What does luxury mean to you? Luxury is conveyed through a constant attention to detail, expressed via a clever combination of shapes, colours, textures and proportions.
What are your future plans for SS + D? We are looking for ways to extend our creative side by becoming more involved in architecture and art; we hope to have an architectural firm and art gallery under one roof.