Established in 1988, Boon Siew Design has come a long way, clinching deals and winning hearts among homeowners, as backed by strong testimonials islandwide. From residential to commercial projects, the powerhouse firm has done it all. We sat down with the team behind the firm, Eric and Calvin to find out more about the firm.
How Boon Siew D’sign Came About
Eric (E): Back in the early years, we focused on design-and-build services and had 8 shops islandwide. I handled 4 of the firms and then realised that there was a need to streamline the business to focus on interior designing.
Acquaintance Turned Partners
Calvin (C): Eric and I got acquainted when they were in the same tour group in Taiwan. We really hit it off and kept in contact after the tour. It was after getting to know each other better that Eric invited me to join the firm while the firm was realigning the business strategy to move from a design-and-build construction to interior designing.
Material Specialist
E: In its early years, the firm used to have a factory that specialises in carpentry in Malaysia, hence we are strong in terms of materials and carpentry works. Furthermore, Calvin used to work in a kitchen specialist firm, so he’s familiar with materials and carpentry works.
C: When it comes to carpentry, one needs to understand the finishing touch that goes behind the works. The cost of a 2-feet carpentry from Firm A to Firm B could differ based on the materials used and the finishing touches.
A Good Designed Home Is…
C: One that does not blindly follow trends. The kitchen design is a good way to assess if the designer is good as a kitchen is the room that is of a heavier duty, and it’s the only room that is customised to the homeowners’ needs – do you need more drawers, open spaces etc?
E: This is also why we don’t sell renovation packages as each home should be tailored to the homeowners’ lifestyle needs.
Tips For Homeowners
C: When choosing an interior designer, be sure to assess the history of the firm and check online for reviews. We are proud to say that we have little negative feedback.
Also, homeowners should learn to be receptive to what designers have to propose at times instead of imposing their ideas. A designer has the best interest for the homeowner. Homeowners at times tend to get carried away when they see nice designers and lose sight of the practicality and upkeep factor and that’s where we step in to advise.
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