A Tranquil Oasis: A Conversation with Agatha Teng

A.RK Interior Design Pte Ltd is a boutique studio with nearly three decades of experience delivering intricate, exquisite, and practical interiors. Their award-winning residential project, A Tranquil Oasis, is located in Shanghai City and showcases the firm’s dedication to creating a sense of belonging and emotional connection within each space. We spoke with Agatha Teng, founder of A.RK Interior Design Pte Ltd, about her background, design philosophy, and the inspirations behind this serene home.

Could you share how A.RK Interior Design started and how your experience has shaped its design philosophy?

Agatha Teng: A.RK is a boutique-sized interior designer studio. We bring with us almost three decades of experiences and we believe in delivering intricate, exquisite, and practical design and form to every single project. We care to bring you the experience, that sense of belonging, and the emotional bond of each space.

With “A Tranquil Oasis,” how did the clients’ specific requests influence your approach to designing the space?

Agatha Teng: The client has entrusted us with the stylistics of the space. They only asked for functionality and ample space for their children to run about, and a space for them to relax after a long day at work.

Designing such a serene family home, how did you balance functionality and aesthetic considerations to meet their needs?

Agatha Teng: Space planning is one of the most important phases of design, and we have spent a lot of time communicating with the client’s needs and simultaneously integrating stylistic aesthetics.

Were there any particularly unique materials or techniques that posed challenges, and how did you handle them?

Agatha Teng: There are many firsts in this project in terms of finishes and details. We have to work closely with the builders to ensure our visions are met, and multiple mock-ups are done to eventually achieve it.

Which element of the project do you feel sets it apart and showcases your innovative approach?

Agatha Teng: One of the most prominent features of the design is the ceiling profile in the master bedroom, where we worked with the structural beams to turn what was an obstacle into a beautiful ceiling profile feature.

How did it feel to see your initial vision come to life, and which design details exceeded your expectations the most?

Agatha Teng: We are very proud that the whole project outcome is almost identical to what we had envisioned and drawn out in our 3D visuals and drawings.

Reflecting on your travels and experiences, what specifically inspired you to pursue a career in interior design, and how has that journey influenced your work today?

Agatha Teng: Having travelled to many countries and stayed in numerous classy hotels, as well as toured historical and monument buildings and interiors, I always wondered what went on behind the scene to create such spaces. That led me to start in this industry and get involved in every aspect of design.

Which projects or professionals, past or present, have inspired you the most in your own creative process?

Agatha Teng: There is no one particular person I admire, but every time I see a successful project done and built, I always like to learn from the masters about the journeys they have been through to get to this point.

Is there a dream project or design that you’ve always wanted to create for yourself, and how would it reflect your personal design sensibilities?

Agatha Teng: I take each new project as a new challenge to create my own personal breakthrough.

How do you foresee advancements in AI and other innovations influencing the future of interior design?

Agatha Teng: AI technology will have a great impact in many aspects of design. I believe it won’t substitute us as designers and architects, but it will act as a very strong collaborator to us all.

In your opinion, how can interior design go beyond aesthetics to foster well-being, sustainability, and a higher quality of life for communities?

Agatha Teng: We hope that interior design is more than just aesthetics; it’s about creating spaces that enhance human well-being, promote sustainability, and foster a better quality of life for all.

What does winning the Architecture MasterPrize mean for you and your firm, and how do you plan to build on that momentum?

Agatha Teng: Receiving an Architecture MasterPrize is an incredible honor. It’s a testament to the hard work, dedication, and talent of our entire team. We strive for excellence in every project, and to have that recognized by such a prestigious award is incredibly validating. We would use this recognition as motivation to continue creating innovative and impactful design that positively shapes the built environment.

We thank Agatha Teng for sharing insights into A Tranquil Oasis and illustrating how thoughtful interior design can infuse a home with comfort, style, and emotional resonance. By focusing on space planning, unique detailing, and collaboration, A.RK Interior Design Pte Ltd has crafted a family-friendly retreat that aligns seamlessly with modern lifestyles—showing that a tranquil, functional oasis is well within reach for today’s discerning homeowner.