“Copenhagen, Denmark, where design belongs to the everyday. From signage to the Metro ticket, it’s really a way of life. The Danish don’t want anything ugly, and you can find beautiful things everywhere.”

The National Aquarium

“[Left] Finnish label Samuji (started by Samu-Jussi Koski, former creative director of Marimekko). The cut is a bit androgynous yet elegant. You still interesting prints but the look is not as loud.

“[Right] Also for womenswear, Ho Chi Minh/New York-based label Kaarem. It’s modern and will be carried at Kapok because its pieces are not too heavy and perfect for Singapore.” 

“First, we focus on small labels and offer variety. Second, we’re not stuck up. The ‘cool’ in Kapok lies in our design and products, and our service is warm. Third, for the food in our first cafe, which is a nicer version of everyday comfort food from around the world.”

Kapok SG at the National Design Centre

“Amangiri Resort in Utah. It’s hidden from the road, and its design doesn’t interfere with the environment – the buildings are made of concrete and raw materials. You open the window in the morning and it’s the most beautiful postcard view. [There’s also…] a natural canyon within the property to explore.”

Utah’s Amangiri

“In Hong Kong, I go to Mott 32 (in the Central area) for dim sum almost weekly.”

Mott 32

Interview by Isabel Ong. A version of this article was originally published in Female February 2015.