Growing up in Singapore surrounded by a family of creatives, for Zacchaeus Ng, ’it only feels natural that my job revolves around design too’. Speaking with Ng for Design Insiders, More Space discusses his favourite artists, designers and manufacturers, who include Jean René, Barber Osgerby, Omer Arbel and Arflex, and the importance of ideas that challenge, resonate and continue to inspire.
More Space: Hi Zacchaeus, how did your interest in design develop and what's been your design journey so far?
Zacchaeus Ng: I have always been around creative people, my entire family works in design, so it only feels natural that my job revolves around design too. I started my journey when I studied interior design. I then worked for my dad at his interior design firm, so my early days were filled with lots of shadowing and learning the ropes of the industry from him. When I started wardrobe and set styling, I got to meet creatives from different specialties and that deepened my interest.
When did you join the Space team?
I joined the team in December 2017. My name card says ‘Senior Sales ‘ but what it doesn’t say is that I help clients realise their design dreams.
What is it like working in the design industry, and what have been some of your memorable moments?
I love the chats that I have with the design consultants I work with, they are always refreshing and insightful. Besides the friendships forged, seeing the final reveal upon completion of a project is always memorable.
Portrait of Zacchaeus Ng with the Cradle sofa by Arflex. Photography © Franz Navarrete.
What do you enjoy most about sharing your design knowledge?
I love that I am able to share the design intentions behind each piece in the collection, and it is very satisfying when clients understand that their new purchase has its own unique story.
What is your favourite piece in the Space collection, and what is it about that piece that caught your eye?
One of my favourites designs would have to be the Cradle collection from Arflex. From the cow-hide strap to the structural steel feet, for me it is the epitome of beauty meets practicality.
Who are some of your favourite artists and designers?
The artists Jean René (JR), CJ Hendry and Sean Yoro (Hula), and designers Barber Osgerby and Omer Arbel. I love their styles and the way they’ve mastered their craft is incredible. I often find myself wondering what were their thought processes before coming out with those brilliant pieces.
Are you reading anything interesting right now?
My current read is ‘JR: Can Art Change the World?’. Jean René's art revolves around topics like freedom, identity and commitment. The part that I love the most about his works are the mediums he chooses to display his art on. That in itself challenges the audiences’ perceptions of what art can be.
"One of my favourites designs would have to be the Cradle collection from Arflex. From the cow-hide strap to the structural steel feet, for me it is the epitome of beauty meets practicality."
Zacchaeus Ng
Zacchaeus Ng with the Cradle sofa by Arflex. Portrait © Franz Navarrete.
'My current read is ‘JR: Can Art Change the World?’. Jean René's art revolves around topics like freedom, identity and commitment,' remarks Ng. Image c/o Phaidon.
Inside the book ‘JR: Can Art Change the World?’ by street artist Jean René and published by Phaidon. Image c/o Phaidon.
The Cradle armchairs are part of a collection that includes the Cradle sofa, above, designed by Shanghai-based architects Neru & Hu for Arflex. Photo c/o Arflex.
The eclectic free-form of Casa Organica in Mexico, and following, designed by architect Javier Senosiain is what Ng describes as 'strangely beautiful.' Photo c/o architect Javier Senosiain
"Some people prefer comfort over aesthetics and others vice-versa. Whichever way they roll, one thing I always say is design should inspire. When in doubt, pick the one that resonates with you the most."
Zacchaeus Ng
Do you have a favourite design destination and what inspires you there?
I would love to visit the Casa Organica in Mexico designed by the architect Javier Senosiain for himself in the 1980s. No words for it, it’s just strangely beautiful, not forgetting the amount of design knowledge required to make a place like that. I think it would be a magical experience and inspirational in understanding the lasting impact of art and design.
Design is an extension of who we are, it's very personal. What is the best piece of advice that you always give clients when they are choosing a piece of design?
Some people prefer comfort over aesthetics and others vice-versa. Whichever way they roll, one thing I always say is design should inspire. When in doubt, pick the one that resonates with you the most.
What design events are you looking forward to in 2022?
Of course the Salone Del Mobile Milano 2022!
Thanks Zacchaeus, great to chat with you.
