From his brand-new premises, Roy Teo, founder of The Mill Group, has his sights set on shaking up Singapore’s design industry. In this exclusive feature, he reveals his grand plans for the design consortium.
In the depths of Redhill, among the depots, warehouses and garages, lies a sight akin to a real-life Batman’s lair. A Neo-Gothic structure that stands 45 metres high, the twin-towered edifice commands an imposing presence in the neighbourhood, fronted by a handful of handsome vintage cars. To say that it’s eyecatching is definitely an understatement.
From inside, Roy Teo emerges, impeccably dressed in a blue-checked suit. Teo is the owner of the building and an eminent personality in Singapore’s design industry— he’s the founder of design consortium The Mill Group, which comprises interior design firms Kri:eit Associates, Splendor, The I.D. Dept and XXII Century. This brand-new building, which just opened in September, is its latest incarnation, serving as The Mill Group’s new headquarters and as a mixed-use compound that will include a restaurant, communal work spaces and retail outlets.
CREATIVE STRONGHOLD
“I wanted it to resemble a fortress,” explains Teo of the namesake building’s unique design, which was masterminded by him and American architect James Adams; in Singapore, the architect’s most famous project is Parkview Square, the grand Art Deco-inspired office and hotel complex that stands tall at North Bridge Road. “In our work as designers, we are so often surrounded by chaos, ideas and noise—so I wanted to create somewhere that was the opposite, somewhere that feels calming and safe,” continues Teo.
This story is from the December - January 2018 edition of Singapore Tatler Homes.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber ? Sign In
This story is from the December - January 2018 edition of Singapore Tatler Homes.
Start your 7-day Magzter GOLD free trial to access thousands of curated premium stories, and 9,000+ magazines and newspapers.
Already a subscriber? Sign In
An Eve for Design
Danielle Ma, founder of interior design studio Maer Atelier, shares how she draws inspiration from expressive artworks and weaves authenticity into her tailored interiors
LIGHT AND GRACE
The Mediterranean-influenced home of Haus Atelier's founders celebrates the passing of time, nature, and authentic family living
Mark of Excellence
The winners of the SIA Architectural Design Awards 2024 displayed much ingenuity in crafting spaces that seamlessly meld modernity with history and tradition.
Timeless Transformation
Another Level blended luxurious design, modern sophistication and practical functionality in expanding the footprint of this landed home
Stately Beauty
Designworx Interior Consultant crafts an interior worthy of this grand bungalow, done up in the style of an English manor
COLONIAL SPLENDOUR
The legacy of colonial buildings in Singapore is one of elegance and tropical adaptability that filters into its luxury housing market
Designing Gamechangers
Aeon, an original brand by homegrown lighting company Sol Luminaire, excels in creating designer fixtures specially tailored to Singaporean homes
Artisanal Mastery
Discover the timeless beauty and sustainable craftsmanship of Riviere Rugs, which melds luxury and tradition in exquisite handwoven creations for discerning homeowners
Curves Ahead
King Living clinched two prestigious Red Dot Design Awards this year for its 1977 sofa collection, an affirmation of the Australian firm's dedication to design and innovation through the years.
Swiss Excellence
V-Zug CEO Peter Spirig discusses the brand's Ill-year dedication to sustainability and innovation in kitchen appliances