Unsung Heroes In Design

It doesn’t matter if these design firms are not household names, we should salute their work on creating residential spaces and social terrains.

- Joe Lim

Sometimes when we see a building we are in awe of the design. When we traipse through a lovely park to admire blooms and plants, and we closely examine the botanical details and green aesthetics, then only do we realise there must be some great designer behind this work.

In this issue, we look at three firms doing what they do best. From designing homes with innovative spatial features to creating a condo design that embraces its past, and even giving a Midas Touch to community gardens, these hardworking individuals reveal to us some of the secrets of their craft and knowledge.

ORTUS DESIGN

Chia Jui Sang is a plant whisperer. His ability to understand the individual watering, maintenance, and fertilising needs for each type of plant is amazing. Under his care, many of his gardens in social spaces and condominium gardens thrive under a wide variety of environments. He even understands how each plant can thrive under different sunlight conditions and the angle of the sun at different times of the year. Thus, his ability to curate the right type of plants to prosper in a wide variety of environments such as residential projects, community spaces or even private gardens is proof of his capable green fingers.

Ortus Design was formed in 2009, the SILA-registered (Singapore Institute of Landscape Architects) firm has done several eye-catching works for government projects and private residences.