Nestled near Seletar Airport and surrounded by charming colonial architecture lies Nathan Home, the latest venture of acclaimed industrial designer Nathan Yong. This 3,000 sq ft space at 8 Baker Street serves as both a retail brand and an experiential gallery, blending the innovative and the nostalgic.

At 55, Yong is a titan in the design realm, boasting over 20 years of experience and accolades including the prestigious President's Design Award. Having collaborated with renowned international brands like Ligne Roset, he’s beloved in Singapore’s creative circles.

Nathan Home marks a pivotal chapter in Yong's career—a deeply personal project that reclaims his artistic vision. With investments of a "high six-figure" amount, he transformed the historical building into a sanctuary of creativity, emphasizing a rustic charm that tells its own story.

FROM ROOTS TO RENAISSANCE

Yong’s design philosophy is deeply rooted in his upbringing in Tanjong Rhu, a former maritime village. Growing up surrounded by the raw beauty of boatyards, he learned to appreciate materials for their authenticity and functionality. "The environment back then was loud, raw, and beautiful in its own way," he recalls. This gritty yet evocative past infuses his work with simplicity, utility, and emotional depth.

Without the distractions of modern design resources, Yong honed his instincts through sketching and exploration. His journey led him to understand that design could be a genuine career, thanks to a British lecturer who taught him that great design stems from empathy—not just problem-solving.

A PIONEER IN THE LOCAL SCENE

Launching Air Division and Grafunkt, Yong introduced minimalist designs to Singaporeans, winning a loyal following. His approach meshes local craftsmanship with global trends, fostering a sense of community among artisans and consumers.

"Designers are not solitary figures; they thrive within a larger framework of clients and creators," said Yong, highlighting his belief in collaboration. His work reflects core values of simplicity and emotional resonance, often characterized by clean lines and natural materials that tell a lasting story.

HUMANISM IN A TECH-DRIVEN WORLD

As automated design becomes more prevalent, Yong champions a more humanistic approach. "With emerging AI, we must ask how we can infuse design with emotion," he stated. To him, the goal is not to diminish humanity but to enrich it, crafting pieces that evolve alongside their owners.

He values imperfections—like a knot in wood or a weathered patina—as marks of time and experience, adding character to his work. In an era of disposable consumerism, his approach stands as a manifesto for mindful living.

COMMUNITY AT THE HEART OF DESIGN

Nathan Home is not just a showcase of Yong’s work; it's a communal space for collaboration with other creators, from potters to textile artists. "I want to foster a community that believes in living with intention and sharing that with the world," he expressed.

Yong's recent installation at the National Gallery—featuring 124 benches etched with public sentiments during the pandemic—encapsulates his belief in design as a shared experience. This collective expression of resilience and hope underscores his commitment to building community through art.

A LASTING LEGACY

When asked about his legacy, Yong hopes to inspire a return to meaningful design—one that emphasizes beauty, intelligence, and care. "It's about living thoughtfully and creating spaces that reflect our truest selves," he said. He envisions Nathan Home as an institution that advocates for this ethos, encouraging others to live more authentically and beautifully.