We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Rix Yap ("RY").
He is a visionary designer with a passion for creating unique and groundbreaking concepts that defy convention. His mission is to challenge the status quo and introduce fresh perspectives to society's aesthetic landscape. Rejecting the idea of uniformity, he strives to break away from the mainstream trends that often lead to homogeneity in design. Despite encountering numerous setbacks and rejections, he remains steadfast in his commitment to innovation. His determination is exemplified by his latest accomplishment: the establishment of a cutting-edge lighting showroom. In this venture, he has tirelessly pursued the integration of diverse and imaginative ideas, even when faced with opposition. Remarkably, he has successfully retained a significant portion of his original concepts, demonstrating his resilience and unwavering dedication to his craft. His ambition is not just to create visually striking designs, but to effect meaningful change in society's perception of design. By continually exploring new materials, shapes, and forms, he seeks to unveil creations that are truly unprecedented and captivating. His work is a testament to his unconventional approach and his relentless pursuit of innovation.
Rix Yap Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Rix Yap.
Rix Yap Design - Eco-Luminance Oasis Retails Shop
Designer Interview of Rix Yap:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
RY : I hold a prestigious Bachelor's degree from USM. My design journey evolved from working on government flats to crafting luxury interiors in Singapore. I specialize in rebuilding and Additions & Alterations (A&A) for landed houses, transforming them into modern, functional, and visually stunning residences. Coming from a middle-class family with tailor parents, I developed an early appreciation for art. My parents proudly displayed my drawings, fostering my talent. Initially, I aspired to be a fashion designer, but my country lacked suitable universities for that field. Fortunately, there was a local university offering an interior design course, which I pursued with passion and dedication.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
RY : Our boutique studio excels in crafting unique, non-ordinary yet functional designs and spaces. We are committed to exploring innovative and enduring designs that challenge conventional thinking and enhance user experiences.
DI: What is "design" for you?
RY : For me, design is about creating something unique and functional, not mass-produced, that brings tangible benefits to the user. It should provide a new or fresh experience that engages the senses in ways the user has never encountered before, ensuring they feel comfortable and truly enjoy the space.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
RY : I enjoy designing residential buildings, public spaces, and commercial spaces that involve architectural elements. I believe that the interior is influenced by the exterior, and both must align to achieve a significant impact that benefits users.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
RY : My favorite design project so far is a lighting shop that has won several international awards. This project stands out to me because the client embraced nearly 80% of my design vision. The landscaping and choice of materials allowed this project to truly shine, with all design elements seamlessly coming together. It serves as a prime example of cohesive interior and exterior design.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
RY : The first thing I designed for my company was the logo. I believe this logo represents the path I wish to pursue: simple yet meaningful, embodying all the aspects I aim to achieve.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
RY : My favorite materials are natural wood and stones. I believe these materials, which have been used since the Stone Age era, have a timeless quality that will endure forever.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
RY : When client trusted you 90%
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
RY : I primarily focus on the needs of the user and how the design benefits them.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
RY : When I design I feel sense happiness and sometimes selflessly
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
RY : Sense of successful and happiness
DI: What makes a design successful?
RY : When the design truly appreciated by the users and others designers
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
RY : I primarily focus on the needs of the user and how the design benefits them, ensuring it aligns with the user's experiences and maintains balance and harmony with the surroundings.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
RY : The responsibility of a designer is to enhance both the aesthetics and practicality of a space, ensuring that users can enjoy a more lasting and quality design.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
RY : Design is evolving rapidly, increasingly influenced by AI and various tools. However, the future of design hinges on top-tier designers whose knowledge surpasses AI capabilities. They create emotional value and innovative designs that have never been seen before, challenging AI's predictive abilities.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
RY : My last exhibition was 10 years ago during my university days. I hope to showcase my designs again within the next 5 years.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
RY : My design creativity comes from daily observations of nature and my feelings toward spaces and objects in public, as well as studying online design platforms.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
RY : My design style revolves around natural elements like ventilation, wind, light, movement, shadow, greenery, and natural materials such as wood and stone. A key aspect is integrating the exterior environment into the interior, as I believe living in natural settings promotes better health compared to enclosed spaces.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
RY : Living in Southeast Asia, I find the multicultural environment allows me to incorporate natural elements into my designs, creating a tropical and cozy atmosphere. I feel inspired and happy with these designs. However, I worry they may not resonate as well in cooler and less vibrant environments.
DI: How do you work with companies?
RY : I often prioritize others' needs and place myself in a secondary position to enable other companies to showcase their true potential.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
RY : In working with a designer, trust is paramount. It's essential to find someone with whom you have chemistry, who can effectively address your issues, listen attentively to your needs, and passionately dedicate themselves to designing and resolving your challenges.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
RY : My design process always begins with listening to and understanding the client's issues and aspirations for improvement. I then explore creative solutions through design research, putting myself in their shoes to deeply understand and resolve their challenges.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
RY : My ditoo speaker, my laptop, my mouse, my cute cement figure and toy figures
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
RY : I start my day by nourishing myself with good food and coffee, followed by exploring different design online platforms. I plan my schedule for drawings and attend site or client meetings. Back at the office, I immerse myself in designing and drawing. After another meal, I relax by watching dramas or jogging before ending the day with sleep.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
RY : Don't blindly follow the advice of older designers; explore and develop your own ideas. However, it's important to avoid overconfidence, as some advice from experienced designers can be invaluable.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
RY : Positives: Being different from others can make your career admirable to some people. Negatives: However, you may also encounter challenges such as dealing with unpaid balances and disrespect from those who undervalue design.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
RY : Always evolve your design through stages. There's no perfect design, but by progressing step by step, you can achieve the most suitable design for each stage of development.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
RY : Critical thinking and fast problem-solving skills are essential in design.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
RY : Auto Cad, sketch up and Vray. Pencil and paper
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
RY : I tend to deeply immerse myself in my design work, which can affect my time management. However, I am committed to setting timelines for each project to ensure efficient progress.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
RY : No fix time. Can be a day , a year or forever
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
RY : How to lower the cost
DI: What was your most important job experience?
RY : When I was in a design builder company which forced my to design and built 2-3 story houses with my main cond.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
RY : Verde light, some high post manager or directors or some properties agents, lawyer, friends, influencers and etc
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
RY : Commercial, more rooms to play
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
RY : I am planning to pursue better projects, such as designing 2-3 story buildings and luxury brand stores, with the aim of elevating my name in the market.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
RY : I develop my design myself
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
RY : Currently, I'm engaged in a fantastic residential project where the client has placed 90% trust in me, allowing full implementation of my design concepts and choice of materials. Additionally, I'm refurbishing a multi-function hall in a condo, aiming to significantly enhance its value through thoughtful redesign.
DI: How can people contact you?
RY : info@r-plus-studio.com rix@r-plus-studio.com