IDr Ooi Boon Seong

IDr Ooi Boon Seong, Founder and Chief Executive Officer of Ooi Design & Associates (OD&A), is an esteemed interior designer who has garnered over 30 prestigious awards in the course of his career spanning over three decades. His legacy extends beyond his works, encompassing nurturing next-generation designers and driving advancements in the industry. As a founding member, and currently President, of the Malaysian Institute of Interior Designers (MIID), Ooi is instrumental in shaping Malaysia’s interior design scene. His approach to design is rooted in the belief that excellence is achieved through teamwork, open communication, and an unwavering commitment to continuous improvement. Asia Designers Directory speaks with IDr Ooi Boon Seong to delve into his design philosophy and gain insights into his perspectives on the evolving interior design landscape in Malaysia and beyond.

Can you describe your design philosophy and key principles when designing a project? 

Our design philosophy revolves around creating environments that evoke happiness and positivity. We begin each project by thoroughly understanding the client’s needs and objectives. This involves detailed briefings and discussions to grasp their vision and requirements. 

Our approach is to develop a compelling narrative and concept that aligns with these needs. We believe in infusing fun elements and positive vibes into our designs, incorporating uplifting quotes and playful graphics where appropriate. At the same time, we ensure that functionality and user experience are not compromised. 

We strive for a balance between aesthetics and practicality, always aiming for a design that enhances the user’s experience while remaining visually appealing. We also like to introduce a touch of luxury and, when relevant, incorporate local context to add depth and relevance to our work. 

Ultimately, every design decision we make is rooted in a deep understanding of the client’s requirements, with each element thoughtfully considered and purposefully integrated into the overall narrative of the project. 

When did you experience your career breakthrough, and which project was key to your career? 

One of my significant career breakthroughs occurred in 2014 with the project for Sharon’s Residence. This project marked a pivotal shift for us as we transitioned from our typical contemporary modern style to explore a more modern classic approach, as per the client’s request. The successful outcome of this project not only met the client’s expectations but also garnered considerable attention, leading many subsequent clients to seek out this modern classic style. This project essentially defined our signature style and even influenced the design of our own office. 

Another notable breakthrough came in 2021 with the Jimmy Choo Penthouse Suite. This project was a turning point in emphasising bespoke design. We embraced the challenge of creating highly customized, luxury furniture pieces, pushing the boundaries of our creative capabilities. The success of this project reinforced our commitment to unique, tailored designs and showcased our ability to deliver exceptional, high-end interiors. 

How has being part of MIID impacted your design approach and/or your involvement with the design community in Malaysia? 

Serving as President of MIID has profoundly influenced my design approach and my engagement with the design community in Malaysia. The role provided me with extensive travel opportunities, exposing me to diverse design practices across various Asian countries. This exposure has enriched my understanding of how design principles can vary regionally, and it has heightened my sensitivity to the cultural and material nuances specific to each locale. 

These experiences have allowed me to appreciate the richness of Malaysia’s cultural heritage and how it can be integrated into our design practices. They’ve also deepened my involvement in the local design community, helping me to foster a greater appreciation for our unique cultural context while encouraging a dialogue about the global and local influences on design. This blend of global perspective and local sensitivity has become a cornerstone of my approach to creating meaningful and contextually relevant designs. 

Are there significant global or local interior design trends? 

On a global scale, the trend towards simplicity and minimalism remains prevalent, with contemporary styles continuing to dominate. Recent developments in AI have introduced new possibilities in design, allowing for more experimentation with fluid, organic forms and pushing the boundaries of traditional design constraints. This trend often leans towards abstract and innovative aesthetics, with less emphasis on cultural elements. 

In Malaysia, the design landscape is deeply rooted in local and tropical identities. There is a notable preference for organic forms, natural materials, and vibrant prints, with geometric shapes becoming less prominent. Malaysian design frequently incorporates local culture and context, embracing materials such as wicker and other natural elements to reflect the region’s rich heritage and natural environment. 

How do you envision the future of interior design in Malaysia, and what role do you hope to play in that future? 

The future of interior design in Malaysia holds great promise. I believe we are at a pivotal point where we have the opportunity to establish a distinctive design language and identity that truly resonates with all Malaysians. Currently, we are still in the process of defining what a “new Malaysia” looks like in terms of design—a vision that aligns with our local culture and climate and reflects a collective sense of identity. 

As we navigate this journey, I am committed to helping shape a design language that captures Malaysia’s unique identity. My goal is to contribute to defining a contemporary Malaysian design style that harmonizes with our cultural and environmental context. By leading innovative projects and encouraging collaboration within the design community, I aim to support the evolution of a distinctive aesthetic that resonates with all Malaysians and reflects our rich heritage.