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Cosentino Interior Designer Spotlight: Exploring the Design Journey of IDr. Lai Siew Hong
An interview with IDr. Lai Siew Hong, the host behind the four-part series Design X Dialogue in partnership with Cosentino on his own design journey
Meet IDr. Lai Siew Hong, an acclaimed Interior Designer and Co-Founder of Blu Water Studio, a boutique interior design firm in Malaysia. Renowned for his award-winning designs, he is the guest host of the four-part Design X Dialogue series in collaboration with Cosentino, aiming to ignite curiosity within the local interior design and architectural community.
Embark on the journey that led IDr. Lai into the world of interior design and architecture. From a piqued design interest during family vacations to New York City where his education in interior design began to the insights he gained from his initial project, he shares valuable lessons along the way. Discover his perspectives on the evolving interior design landscape and the significance of materials and colours in his creative process as he unfolds his inspiring journey.
From Distinct Cultures to Hospitality: How Travel Ignited IDr. Lai's interest in Design
IDr. Lai's interest in design was kindled by his appreciation for diverse cultures and the warmth of hospitality encountered during his travels. The initial spark that ignited his journey into interior design and architecture occurred during family vacations. These trips not only provided him with an opportunity for leisure but also exposed him to a myriad of architecture and construction developments through hotel stays. Moreover, visits to relatives' homes enriched his design interest, offering encounters with “distinct cultures and a profound sense of hospitality”.
Crafting a Design Journey and Learning Lifelong Design Lessons
In pursuit of his studies, IDr. Lai ventured to New York City, one of the capital design hubs of the world. Having completed his studies at the State University of New York, he kicked off his design career in the bustling metropolis, dedicating two years to the city’s dynamic interior design scene before returning to Kuala Lumpur. Over the next 19 years of his life, he ventured into a career in Axis Identity Group, eventually ascending the role of Design Director, while simultaneously assuming the position of Managing Director of Asia Network Design Consultants Sdn Bhd, a prominent Interior Design company in Malaysia, before co-founding his own boutique firm Blu Water Studio.
Amidst his professional growth, an impactful lesson in interior design unfolded during a residential project that he was overseeing. It illuminated the dynamic nature of homes, emphasising that a residence should evolve organically, synchronising with an individual’s life journey. This realisation underscored the importance of “mindful design” urging a consideration of how individuals interact with a space at any given moment. For IDr. Lai, every project since then became an opportunity to not only design spaces but to craft experiences that resonate with the evolving essence of life.
Navigating Design Styles, Colours, and Sustainable Materials
Indoor and Outdoor dining table top designed with Dekton - Entzo in Étoile Bistro at EQ KL
When it comes to interior design, IDr Lai's aesthetic inclinations lean towards the classic, modern, timeless, and clean lines, often drawing inspiration from various cultures. His love for both modern and classic designs manifests in a preference for neutral shades such as beige, taupe, grey, cream, black, and white. These, he believes, harmonise seamlessly with vibrant hues like sea blue, turquoise, and yellowish green, creating an ambience of warmth, comfort, and stability. The versatility of this colour palette lends itself well to diverse applications, spanning rustic and traditional designs to modern and minimalist aesthetics.
Table top designed with Dekton - Entzo in Étoile Bistro at EQ KL
When selecting materials for his designs, IDr Lai leans towards natural elements like wood, stone, and leather. This choice not only creates a sensory and tactile experience but also prioritises comfort, seamlessly aligning with the natural environment. His core belief in community, sustainability, and environmental responsibility forms the foundation of his design philosophy. IDr Lai emphasises the importance of minimising energy consumption and carbon footprints in good interior design. By utilising long-lasting materials, he aims to promote recycling and upcycling practices, ultimately reducing waste and contributing to a healthier environment.
Outdoor communal table top designed with Dekton - Aldem in Étoile Bistro at EQ KL
This commitment to sustainability was further solidified in 2018 when IDr Lai was introduced to Cosentino surfaces. The diverse selection of innovative and eco-friendly surfaces resonated with him, characterised by both strong artistic appeal and enduring sensibility. These surfaces align with his ethos of combining functionality and design, remaining stylish and relevant in his creations. In fact, IDr Lai has also incorporated Cosentino surfaces in his projects such as Étoile Bistro at EQ and Amari Spice Penang.
Amaya Outdoor Bar countertop designed with Dekton - Sirocco at Amari Spice Penang
Cascade Dining Table top and Bar Countertop designed with Silestone - Bianco River at Amari Spice Penang
Anticipating Future Interior Design Trends
IDr. Lai at the third instalment of Design X Dialogue at the Cosentino Showroom
In the wake of the post-pandemic era, IDr. Lai keenly observes a notable surge in collaboration among designers, architects, and industry enthusiasts who share a profound commitment to caring for people, communities, safety, and sustainability. This collective effort reflects a global citizenship mindset, with industry players actively challenging themselves to contribute to the preservation of Mother Nature's future and the creation of a better world.
In 2024, Cosentino will continue its partnership with IDr. Lai for another season of Design X Dialogue, a series of inspirational design sessions featuring up-and-coming designers who will share their creative insights into the world of interior design and architecture. Aimed to inspire and stimulate the curious minds of the local community in Malaysia, the sessions will take place at the Cosentino Malaysia Showroom, located at No. 1 Jalan TSB 8, Taman Industri Sungai Buloh, 47000 Petaling Jaya.
To embark on your own design and discovery journey, feel free to contact 03-8230 3954 to schedule an appointment or visit here for more information.
