100% Design Singapore: Voon Wong
The second edition of 100% Design Singapore shines the spotlight on making. fluoro spoke to curator of the event Voon Wong, about the state of global design and what sets Singapore apart from the world.
The 2013 theme of making seeks to explore how the nature of design creation has evolved and highlights the importance of processes behind quality design in Singapore and Southeast Asia.
As an architect Wong has worked for the likes of Zaha Hadid and Rick Mather before forming his own multidisciplinary design practice VW+BS. The practice has completed a range of innovative projects including award-winning work for Virgin Atlantic Airways’ Upper Class Cabin and Bar.
(f) From projects in London and Kuala Lumpur, to Singapore and Shanghai, how do you view the state of design on a global scale?
(VW) I would say that the state of design globally is quite healthy. There are still some clients who see design as part of a branding exercise. They want to commission the “starchitect” of the day so that they can have an internationally recognised name to attach to their project, irrespective of the quality of the design. However at the same time there is an awful lot of good work that is happening globally.
Similarly, product design has shifted back from the heady days of the early 2000s when design and art blurred, to a more sober and rational way of thinking, but it is still quite experimental in the use of material and form.
(f) What is unique to design in Singapore?
(VW) In terms of design [in Singapore], there is no historical baggage. Designers and students are incredibly outward looking and trawl the world for new ideas and inspiration. At the same time, our own identity as Asians is still present but in subtle ways.
(f) Has the innovation in technology radically changed design or complimented traditional practices?
(VW) Technology has been changing design for hundreds of years, this is nothing new. Of course the pace of change is accelerating and now it is hard for designers – or anybody for that matter -– to keep abreast of new developments. Traditional practices remain important and many people still aspire to have a handmade crafted element to the products they buy, whether it is a suit, a handbag or a dining table. The interesting future development for the consumer is how technology can bring them into the design process and the consumer can customise the products they buy.
(f) What role do events such as 100% Design play in advancing the industry?
(VW) Shows such as 100% Design are places where people meet, talk and swap ideas. Of course, there are new products and new processes that can be considered for use in future projects – that is the straightforward business side of the show.
But the most important element of all these shows, is the way they bring people together, take them away from their offices or studios and allow them to start unexpected conversations with colleagues and clients that can lead to something exciting.
—
100% Design Singapore takes place from Wednesday 11 September until Friday 13 September 2013 at Marina Bay Sands, Singapore.
