The relationship between art and design is magical. Interior design is not just about aesthetics. It creates a space that is tailored to the function, quality and lifestyle that the client is looking for. By integrating fine art in the design concept, an excellent artwork will invigorate a room with a fresh new perspective. It can establish itself as a focal point, define a colour palette or even set the theme of the space.

Below is our list of top 5 interior designers in Singapore who we think are imaginative, inspiring and intelligent.

Elliot James Interiors

Founded in 2012 by Elliot Barratt, Elliot James Interiors is an award winning British interior design and furniture company. Recognized for his timeless contemporary interiors, Elliot’s works boast a seamless integration of fine art and design. He transforms spaces that reflect the client’s personality and lifestyle from concept to completion. Elliot is a true designer in every sense; he produces unique luxury home design for both private and development properties that exude elegance, opulence and style.

Image Credit: Elliot James (http://www.elliotjames.com)

Designed Design Associates

Established in 1997, the boutique interior design firm has an impressive portfolio that includes commercial projects, modern home interior design and private residential homes. Their interior designers have impeccable taste and intuition. By carefully selecting artworks that complement their design concept, they re-define a space that projects a sense of balance and decadence.

DDA provides a holistic range of services including space planning, design conceptualization, project construction and management. Catering to clients from regional countries such as Singapore, Kuala Lumpur, Indonesia and the Philippines, major works include Bistro at the Supreme Court, Keck Seng Tower and the Metrojaya Group of Stores.

Image Credit: Designed Design Associates (http://www.dda.com.sg)

Mr Shopper Studio

By harnessing their creative power and imagination, Mr Shopper Studio helps their clients create stunning homes within budget. Their designers have unparalleled experience in transforming HDB flats that are simple yet chic. As far as furnishing and renovation and concerned, they have the perfect expertise to source materials from the right craftsmen to integrate into their design vision. Their success is a result from a very talented team who work closely with clients to deliver an exemplary service within budget and on time.

Image Credit: Mr Shopper Studio (http://www.mrshopperstudio.com)

Ark-chitecture

Ark-hitecture is a one-stop boutique agency that offers fully integrated services, encompassing the entire process – from design and consultation to project management and construction. Their designers play with a multiplicity of repertoires, never sticking to a single style, ranging from contemporary to Scandinavian. They create an atmosphere that excites and provokes, making a dream come true.

Image Credit : Ark-chitecture (http://ark-hitecture.com.sg)

Takenouchi Webb

The design genius behind the exquisite interior of The White Rabbit and The Black Swan, British architect Marc Webb and Japanese interior designer Naoko Takenouchi creates timeless spaces with epic proportions. The studio believes in a holistic approach to design, developing the architecture, interior and furniture for each project. Their design approach is a carefully considered combination of materials, detailing and precision combined with practical problem solving unique to each project. Takenouchi Webb is absolutely committed to each project regardless of the size; each work is a product of their passion and expertise.

Image Credit: Takenouchi Webb (http://www.takenouchiwebb.com)

On a beautiful morning in Singapore, we had the pleasure to visit the home of one of our collectors, Olivier Simottel a Singapore resident for over a decade and an avid collector of fine art.

His home, a stunning black and white colonial house contains works by famous artists including Ai Xuan, Ling Jian, Liu Guosong, Cai Lei, U Lun Gywe, Tay Bak Koi, Srihadi Soedarsono and more.

We’d like to thank Olivier for his openness in allowing us to interview him and showcase some of the beautiful works in his collection.

Olivier Simottel with his work titled Porcelain Girl by Chinese Artist Ling Jian

How has living with art influenced your life?

I find pleasure in the beauty of art. My children moved from Paris to Texas, USA which lacks the cultural scene that Paris has. But when they are in Singapore, they are surrounded by these amazing art pieces, even during breakfast, which imprints on their minds and souls; it is a spiritual connection. I believe that art provides the sophistication and beauty that is an absolutely critical part of life that we should have.

You seem to have a penchant for Chinese art. What about Chinese art speaks to your strongly?

Well, I love Chinese art but I also do enjoy art from other parts of Asia, like Myanmar and Indonesia. I like collecting art from the different places that I travel to. Asia is a region of burgeoning wealth, it is going through rapid changes in the political scene that can be paralleled in the Industrial Revolution in Europe during the 18^th century. The artistic movements and creativity alongside it is astounding. To me, art is not just for beauty and self-enjoyment, it is also a cultural legacy.

Beach Girls by Burmese artist U Lun Gywe

Is there a process in selecting your work?

Yes, there are two components to it. I choose art that I feel emotionally connected to. But I think it should also be an educated decision. I consult Alice on a work that I like, she is trained in understanding the skill level, productivity and auction value of these pieces. I only choose pieces that I like but they should also be a positive financial investment.

Work by Indonesian Master Srihadi Soedarsono

When and why did you start collecting art?

I bought my first piece in Barbados when I was 27 from a Jamaican artist. But I only started being more active in collecting since 2005. I grew up in France where art and culture has always been a prominent aspect of our history so I learnt to understand and appreciate it. I enjoy European art but I also love art from other regions; I have a few pieces of tribal art from Africa. To me, each artwork represents a culture so I try to collect a piece from every country that I visit.

Which is your most cherished piece?

I have two pieces, both from Liu Guosong. It is so timeless and modern, it has such a sense of tranquility to it. I plan on keeping it with me forever. You can see one of the Liu Guosong works in the background below.

From left to right – Ai Xuan, Liu Guosong and Cai Lei

Who are the artists you are currently following?

Cai Lei, his works are so dynamic. He is part of the post-80s generation that is still grounded to his Chinese roots and trying to break into the international art world. His works are authentic to China’s history but also very modern and relatable. I am going to follow him through his career because I think he will be extremely successful as a contemporary Chinese artist.