Imagine a mirror framed by the iconic green ondeh ondeh, a coffee table sculpted in the shape of a buttery biscuit, and a side table with drawers disguised as a checkerboard cookie. These whimsical creations are just a glimpse into the world of Studio Kallang, a Singapore- and Seattle-based design project spearheaded by the talented Faezah Shaharuddin.
Faezah’s design philosophy, as she describes it, is “eclectic and playful with undertones of nostalgia.” Her pieces, striking the perfect balance between fun and chic, are statement makers that have resonated with a diverse audience. From adorning Diptyque’s Singapore flagship at Raffles City to being featured at the prestigious Milan Design Week, Studio Kallang has made its mark on the international design scene.
In a recent interview, Faezah delved into her design journey, inspirations, and the story behind her beloved creations. Her journey began amidst the world of vintage furniture, instilled by her mother’s business, which later transitioned into furniture manufacturing. This early exposure to design eras and trends laid the foundation for her creative sensibilities.
“My father is an academic with a deep love for the arts. He exposed me to revolutionary literature and music, which has shaped my practice by adding contemplative elements,” Faezah shares. She further refined her design knowledge and sensibilities by attending the School of Art + Art History + Design at the University of Washington.
The birth of Studio Kallang was driven by Faezah’s desire to bridge her experiences living in both Singapore and the United States. She aimed to translate these experiences into tangible and comprehensible pieces, imbuing them with a unique blend of cultural influences.
When asked about her design inspiration, Faezah explained that she draws from a diverse tapestry of influences, both past and present: “I see my designs as a collage of things that resonate with me, whether it’s news, pop culture, music, fashion, or anything else that catches my attention. I combine them with references from the past, making the work feel relevant.”
Faezah admits to being constantly overstimulated by her surroundings. However, she approaches this chaos in a productive way, distilling it into something comprehensible and humorous. This approach is evident in her playful designs that playfully blend the familiar and the unexpected.
Navigating the creative industry and the art world was an initial challenge for Faezah. “I knew nothing about PR, press releases, or contracts with stockists and galleries,” she confesses. “I’m sure I made a lot of mistakes in the beginning, but I learned a lot.”
Running an independent design studio presents a balancing act between creative pursuits and the business side. “As much as I love sketching, reading, and ideating, I have to juggle emails, invoices, manufacturing, timelines, and logistics to keep things running,” Faezah acknowledges.
This year, Faezah had the opportunity to showcase her work at Milan Design Week, an experience she describes as overwhelming in the best way. “I texted a friend that I was choking on beauty—that’s how it felt,” she says. “It was fascinating to discover how high-profile shows are curated and executed, and the insane amount of work that goes on behind the scenes. It was inspiring to be around so many people at the top of their field.”
When asked about her favorite creation, Faezah chooses the Onde Mirror: “It was one of the first few pieces I designed, and I still love it the most. I love how it feels interactive—like a frame for life. I love seeing it in different spaces reflecting all kinds of different people who resonate with my work somehow.”
Faezah’s design style has evolved over the years, becoming more focused and curated while retaining its playful, contrarian energy. As she reflects on the Singapore design scene, she expresses hope for more irreverent work that challenges Western design sensibilities and embraces the vibrant cultural landscape of the region. “I hope to see more collaborative work between Singaporean designers and our neighbors too,” she adds.
Faezah’s work is a testament to the power of design to blend personal experiences with cultural influences, resulting in pieces that are both playful and thought-provoking. Her journey, marked by a constant pursuit of new ideas and a playful approach to design, is an inspiration for aspiring artists and designers alike.