How does a space make you feel? For Su Min Chong, Design Director at Nevermore, the answer lies in engaging the senses.
She believes that design must transcend physical limitations, moving beyond visual aesthetics to capture natural light, encourage airflow, and evoke a sense of comfort and excitement. Every space she creates is intended to leave a meaningful imprint on those who experience it.
Could you tell us about your firm and the design philosophy that drives your work?
Our firm is all about bringing identity to spaces. People are often able to tell it’s our project when they see one, yet we are never limited to a specific style. Every project carries its own unique character and soul. This ties directly into my core belief that design should transcend limitations. It is a silent language that evokes emotion, identity, and memory through space.
My philosophy has been shaped by travel, culture, hospitality spaces, and observing how people emotionally connect with their environments. To me, impactful design is not only about aesthetics, but about creating spaces people can truly feel and remember.
How did you balance heritage and contemporary design in the Auntie Gaik Lean’s Old School Eatery project?
Our initial approach was to give the brand a sense of quiet grandeur by positioning Auntie Gaik Lean as royalty within her culinary world. That inspired the use of royal blue tones throughout the space. At the same time, the restaurant is now managed by the second generation, making the project a reflection of old meeting new—a dialogue between mother and son, heritage and contemporary perspectives. The most significant aspect today is the preservation of the original façade and flooring. We wanted the space to retain its authenticity while allowing new elements to coexist harmoniously with its history.
What are the key challenges of designing in Southeast Asia, where global trends meet deep-rooted heritage?
Southeast Asia already has a rich architectural and cultural heritage shaped by history and the colonial era. The challenge today is how we continue to innovate while still respecting and preserving those roots.
How are you continuing this dialogue between heritage and contemporary design in your upcoming work?
Being an interior designer in Penang, Malaysia, has been a real privilege because of how deeply the local community values its heritage roots and architectural history. Currently, we are working on a new office project that incorporates colonial influences with a refine d luxurious touch. It reflects our interest in bridging heritage with contemporary design, and we are genuinely excited about bringing it to life.
Ready to be the next Top 50 and stand out among SEA’s most notable designers?
