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HH Archive
Ask Your Peers Series
- Alvin -
Alvin:
I see functionality and aesthetics as inseparable. A space can be visually beautiful, but if it does not support the way someone lives, it eventually loses meaning. At the same time, functionality without emotional quality can feel cold and uninspiring.
For me, the best interiors are the ones where functionality quietly enhances the aesthetic experience.
Min Sheng:
Functionality vs Aesthetics, what do you consider more?
Alvin:
Bringing versatility and contrast to a space, stainless steel has become my favourite material to use. I appreciate how it interacts with light and reflections, subtly highlighting forms and details within an interior. When balanced against other materials like wood, stone, or fabric, it creates depth and allows the surrounding materials to stand out even more.
Beyond its aesthetics, I value its durability and timelessness. It's a material that embodies both precision and craftsmanship while remaining relevant across different styles and contexts.
Ci En:
What is your ONE favourite material? Why?
Alvin:
One of the most influential experiences was my early internship, my very first introduction to carpentry and hands on fabrication at a young stage gave me a very grounded understanding of design. Instead of only viewing interiors as visual compositions, I learned to appreciate construction, joinery, material behaviour, and the discipline behind craftsmanship.
Xin Hui:
What experiences shaped your design sensitivity?
Alvin:
What motivates me most is seeing how design can improve the way people live and experience their everyday lives. Beyond that, seeing an idea evolve from concept into a fully realised space through collaboration and careful execution is something I continue to find very fulfilling.
I also find motivation in the process itself. Every project is different because every client is different, there is always a new problem to solve, a new lifestyle to understand, and a new balance to achieve between practicality and aesthetics.
Ci En:
What motivates you carry on in this career? Why?
Alvin:
I would love to have the ability to instantly travel anywhere in the world whenever I want. Design is heavily influenced by culture, architecture, environments, and experiences, so being able to explore different cities and spaces freely would constantly inspire new perspectives and ideas.
Xin Hui:
If you were given a chance to gain an ability, what would it be?
Alvin:
I strongly believe in multi-disciplinary design. Interior design does not exist in isolation but intersects with architecture, furniture, lighting, material and functionality. Having exposure to different disciplines creates a more holistic understanding of how spaces are experienced, from the smallest detail of how opening a cabient door should feel, to every other detail that people experience in their homes.
At the same time, I think it is important to have one strong core foundation. For me, that foundation is spatial design and craftsmanship. Once that discipline is strong, exploring across multiple areas becomes meaningful rather than superficial.
Min Sheng:
Do you believe in multi-disciplinary design or design should be focused onto one aspect and make it perfect.
Alvin:
Design is an evolving field, and we should never get too comfortable or confined to a particular way of thinking. I think curiosity is one of the most important qualities a designer can and should have, I continue to try and expose myself to newer experiences, ideas and also perspective.
Min Sheng:
What do you feel you are lacking and hope to achieve/do more in the future?
Alvin:
Breaking the conventional and typical layout of a home, Hitotema Home demonstrates how every element was carefully considered around the homeowners' lifestyle. From the sliding partitions and raised platforms to the integration of storage and natural light, each decision serves a purpose while contributing to the overall experience of the home. The project challenges conventional planning and rethinks how space can be used, creating moments of flexibility, reflection, and connection throughout the day.
Ci En:
Which project is your favourite project in HH? Why?
Alvin:
I place a strong emphasis on functionality and how a space is used on a daily basis. Beyond aesthetics, I pay close attention to how people move through a space, interact with it, and carry out their everyday routines.
Xin Hui:
What do you pay most attention to when designing?
Alvin:
While aesthetics often create the first impression, it's usually the experience and attention to detail that inspire me most. I enjoy seeing how materials, lighting, proportions, and circulation come together to shape the way people feel and interact within a space. The most memorable designs are often the ones where every decision feels intentional.
Min Sheng:
What inspires you when you go into a well-designed space? Details, Experience, Aesthetics or others?
About Series
A series of questions was exchanged within the studio.
Each member receives fifteen questions from the rest of the team. Some explore design, craft, and practice. Others wander into memories, routines, influences, and personal reflections.
Unscripted and candid, these conversations document the individuals behind Hock Hoon — their perspectives, values, and the experiences that shape the work we do.
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