Cover Poliform Kensington table by Jean Marie Massaud is an example of eclectic furniture
Poliform Kensington table by Jean Marie Massaud is an example of eclectic furniture
1 / 1
Candice Yeo of Genius Loci on how to design a personal space with eclectic elegance
“When spaces start to engage with its use, it connects and narrates the story and history not only of the spatial experiences, even the article and personal collections have a story to tell,” explains Candice Yeo, an interior designer from Genius Loci in describing a personal space with an eclectic elegance.
To curate such a space, Yeo believes finding a theme that resonates is crucial.“Often, we would like to personalise the space to what the homeowner likes, such as travel or art. After identifying the theme, we will look at colours, shapes and form, composition and balance, like how a photographer looks through the lens,” Yeo says. “For us, it’s always about finding unique items which have qualities that tell a story of where we found it, or how it was created, textures or how difficult it was to find.”
Read more: 10 eclectic Malaysian homes full of character and art
Above Candice Yeo of Genius Loci
Candice Yeo of Genius Loci
1 / 1
To achieve the right balance, Yeo advises that it needs to be approached with a confident mindset: “Spaces are always about the process. It’s always preferable to be a brewing pot of mix-and-match, and often, the best space is never overly thought of. The casual approach to how each composition works out is important. I would always go for original imported furniture to ensure the ratios and scales are perfectly in place.”
See also: 7 heritage-inspired boutique stays in Penang, Malaysia
Personal statement
Above Borobudur, a bronze sculpture by artist Nyoman Nuarta in Genius Loci’s Jakarta office
Borobudur, a bronze sculpture by artist Nyoman Nuarta in Genius Loci’s Jakarta office
1 / 1
A piece of art always elevates a space, and this bronze sculpture by Indonesian artist Nyoman Nuarta, Borobudur, is a memorable statement. This is especially so when placed in a very simplified environment, allowing the details and colour to echo and dominate the space.
Don’t miss: 3 most expensive neighbourhoods in Kuala Lumpur for luxury real estate investment
In Le Club
Above Poliform Le Club armchair by Jean-Marie Massaud
Poliform Le Club armchair by Jean-Marie Massaud
1 / 1
“Poliform’s Le Club armchair by Jean-Marie Massaud is one of our favourites as it reflects the 70s era but with a modern twist,” opines Yeo. A piece which transforms a space by simply adapting the material, Le Club from Space Furniture is perfect when a bold yet subtle statement is needed.”
Read more: Milan Design Week 2024: 10 key pieces to elevate your home
Stroke of genius
Above Poliform Kensington table by Jean Marie Massaud
Poliform Kensington table by Jean Marie Massaud
1 / 1
The luxurious Poliform Kensington Table by Jean Marie Massaud from Space Furniture is a favourite for Locus Genius projects as its brass legs resemble calligraphy—meaningful brushstrokes on a blank canvas. “Black on black is a personal favourite; it’s a classic, often placed within a white-clad dining space, with matching Poliform chairs,” enthuses Yeo.
Don’t miss: 10 beautiful Michelin-starred restaurants by acclaimed designers worldwide
Art and craft
Above B&B Italia Erica 19 armchair by Antonio Citterio
B&B Italia Erica 19 armchair by Antonio Citterio
1 / 1
B&B Italia’s Erica 19 chair may be classified as outdoor furniture, but Yeo believes this Antonio Citterio design works well as an accent piece indoors or out. Available from Space Furniture, the designer states that visually, its composition looks like a handcrafted art piece, a conversation starter.
Read more: How this Italian architect is driven to tell stories through furniture design
Round up
Above Lee Broom Aurora Ring chandelier
Lee Broom Aurora Ring chandelier
1 / 1
Renowned light designer, Lee Broom’s Aurora Ring from Space Furniture Singapore is a modern yet elegant light that pairs perfectly with the Kensington Table. Emitting a warm illumination around the dining table, Yeo recommends this piece, particularly for limited spaces.
See also: Ultimate Malaysian Home Tours guide: 7 stunning homes in Johor
Hanging tuft
Above Baxter Dalma Armchair by Draga Aurel
Baxter Dalma Armchair by Draga Aurel
1 / 1
Described as a piece with sparkle, Baxter’s Dalma Armchair by Draga Aurel is ideal for spaces that require a more formal feel. This chair from Space Furniture is Yeo’s choice for adding contrast, and while not a complex piece of furniture, the possibilities of bold colours make it a show-stopper.
NOW READ
Home tour: A biodiversity-inspired Malaysian home seamlessly blending nature and architecture
6 bars from The World’s 50 Best 2023 list by acclaimed designers
Should you consider smart, AI-assisted appliances for your modern home?
Best of Tatler Asia video highlights
Featured videos from around Tatler Asia: Get exclusive behind-the-scenes look at the interviews we do, the events we attend, the shoots we produce, and the incredibly important people who are part of our community
Jennifer Choo is Regional Managing Editor of Tatler Homes, covering architecture, interior design, and art across Asia. Based in Malaysia, she oversees regional content on luxury residential design and contemporary art collections. Legally trained but choosing to pursue her passion for design, she previously led notable design publications and worked as an interior stylist and art consultant for property developers, design firms, and private clients.
