Cover Edith Chew and Eugene Chan, co-founders of Ceed Design
Edith Chew and Eugene Chan, co-founders of Ceed Design
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Husband-wife duo transforms Penang terrace house into light-filled sanctuary for innovative interior design
A serene oasis of creativity flourishes within the walls of a double-storey terrace house in Pulau Tikus, a suburb in George Town, Penang. This is the home of Ceed Design, a studio co-founded by husband-and-wife duo Edith Chew and Eugene Chan, who transformed the 3,000 sq ft space from a partitioned private office into a light-filled sanctuary that embodies their design philosophy.
According to Chan, the central air well that floods the studio with natural light clinched their decision to take the space. “This was one of the main features that caught our interest,” he explains. The air well is more than just an architectural element; it embodies Ceed Design’s philosophy of blending the outdoors with the indoors.
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Above Greenery festoons the office frontage
Above Edith Chew and Eugene Chan, co-founders of Ceed Design
Greenery festoons the office frontage
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The studio they’ve occupied since October 2021 is a physical manifestation of their design ethos: clean, simple, and liberating.
“We believe that there is no perfect design,” Chan muses. “Rather, we should accept the world as imperfect, unfinished, and transient.” This philosophy is evident in every corner of the space, where imperfections are celebrated rather than concealed.
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The outside garden is a quiet respite
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A large, custom-made solid wood table dominates the central area as a focal point for team meetings and client presentations. Around it, three talented designers work on projects ranging from residential spaces to pet-friendly guesthouses and cafes.
The open-plan layout encourages collaboration and creativity, while large glass windows offer views of the outdoor landscape, a source of constant inspiration.
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Above Greenery festoons the office frontage
Above The outside garden sets the mood for the serene office
Greenery festoons the office frontage
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Chan reflects on their journey, “In the early years, we liked to use trendy designs to make our work interesting, but our concept has evolved.” Now, Ceed Design focuses on creating spaces that resonate with the soul, prioritising tranquillity and emotional connection over mere visual appeal.
Chan cites the movie The Secret Life of Walter Mitty as a key influence in their approach. “We never let ourselves settle for the ordinary,” Chan says. “We strive for the extraordinary by taking bold leaps of faith.”
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Above The central air well bathes the interiors with natural light
The central air well bathes the interiors with natural light
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Within the studio, an outdoor area was created where team members can unwind and connect with nature.
This space, he explains, is crucial for maintaining creativity and productivity. It’s a physical manifestation of their belief in the importance of work-life balance and the rejuvenating power of nature.
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Natural materials were deliberately chosen in the furniture and finishings
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Looking to the future, Chan shares their vision of expanding beyond traditional design services. “We’re in the process of setting up our own café,” he reveals, “and in the future, we hope to establish our guesthouse.”
These ventures align with their passion for creating serene spaces and unique getaway experiences.
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The large, custom-made solid wood table and mirrored armchairs were designed by the studio
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In this tucked-away corner of Penang, Chew and Chan have crafted a space that transcends the typical workplace.
Here, creativity thrives in an atmosphere where imperfections are celebrated, and the boundaries between productivity and tranquillity dissolve. The result is a unique environment where purpose and peacefulness coexist perfectly.
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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.
