Singapore design is enjoying something of a golden age, with innovative designers making waves in every arena from fashion to homewares and souvenirs. Taking place from May 4 to 6 at Wheelock Place, Level 2, DesignArt Festa will bring many of these names under one roof. The selection of brands will be curated by Supermama, one of Singapore’s coolest stores. Here’s what you can do when you visit.
Pick up some statement pieces for your home or office
Weekend Worker
Weekend Worker’s bowls, cups, plant pots and vases are rustic, nostalgia-inducing and full of life. If you want something to add character to your home or office, Weekend Worker will have it. Another Singapore-based ceramics studio, Euphoramics represents the pottery journey of Loy Yan Ling, a trained teacher who first fell in love with ceramics back in 1999. Loy’s creations are as aesthetically appealing as they are functional, blending the classic and the contemporary seamlessly. &Natural has a similar focus on functionality, with hand-finishing ensuring that each elegant piece has one-of-a-kind appeal.
The idea behind Everyday Canoe is simple but ingenious: they make spoons from offcuts of wood. The results are whimsical, wonderful and completely unique; they can even make pieces to your specifications. Other products in their inventory include butter knives, wallflower houses and brooches. Are you a lover of the great outdoors? Then you should have the art of Pearlyn Sim on your walls. Her nature-inspired works are familiar and enchanting at the same time.
Take home some foodie finds
Shermay’s Singapore Fine Food
Shermay Tan is one of Singaporean cooking’s top exponents, and you can bring her Peranakan flavors wherever you go thanks to Shermay’s Singapore Fine Food. From sauces to marinades and curry powder, she has it all. For something a little sweeter, pop over to Demochoco. This small-batch chocolatier will tempt you with chocolate truffles in flavours like Hibiki 12 whisky, salted egg and cereal, Earl Grey and more.
Buy distinctive gifts and souvenirs
Rehyphen
A label by Supermama, Souvenirs from Singapore puts many beloved symbols of the country in the spotlight. From mosaic-playground-themed calendars, to mugs that capture the iconic facades of Rochor Centre and MRT signage keychains, these are thoughtful gifts and souvenirs; regardless of whether you’re a local or a tourist.
Rehyphen’s “Musiccloth” is as innovative as it is stylish. Concerned about the large amount of e-waste being disposed of in Asia, they did their part by upcycling old cassette tapes into an array of accessories and artworks.
Fine-tune your own design skills
A household name in creative circles for more than three decades, Basheer Graphic Books has been a key part of many design stories. Stop by to check out books and magazines spanning architecture, interior design, animation, graphic design, fashion design and photography, just to name a few areas they specialize in.
Update your look
The Lorem Ipsum Store
If you’re looking for trendy jewelry that ticks all the eco-friendly boxes (renewable, sustainable and traditional), WoonHung is just the brand for you. Every one of their pieces—pendants, necklaces earrings and more—is handmade by artisans in Cebu, with a “no waste” commitment. Quirky and minimalist more your scene? Then be sure to stop by the Lorem Ipsum Store to browse their chic and cheery collection of jewelry. KnottyMin is another delightful find at DesignArt Festa; they turn grosgrain ribbons and jersey cotton into colorful necklaces, with 25 percent of proceeds going to their adopted charity for the month.
Check out deals and offerings from Wheelock Place tenants
Crumpler
Some of Wheelock Place’s familiar tenants will be getting involved as well. If your bags and backpacks are looking a little worse for wear, this is your opportunity to switch things up. Both CumulusNimbus and Crumpler will be at DesignArt Festa, stocking a variety of stylish and well-made backpacks, gadget pouches, wallets, totes and more. Crumpler will also be selling selected items for under $30. And if you simply want to get lost—and surprised—by a well-curated collection of shoes, accessories and garments, make a beeline for boutique Threadbare & Squirrel.
DesignArt Festa takes place from May 4 to 6 (11am–9pm on Fri and Sat; 11am–8pm on Sun) at Wheelock Place, Level 2. For more information, head to the Wheelock Place website or Instagram page.
