Behind the Brand is about getting to know the real design enthusiasts who work just outside the spotlight across our industry. We hear lots from the architects and interior designers, but what about the sales managers and marketing experts who link them with products, specifiers and so on? Today it’s the turn of Liz Teh!

Please tell us a bit about your background in design

I have worked in Philips Design as a product designer under the creative direction of Stefano Marzano. During this 13-years tenure, I lived and worked in Paris, Hong Kong and Netherlands, and I’m now based in Singapore.

I made a natural transition to interiors and space design around 2010. Having been appointed Director of Space Design for Haworth International for Asia and European markets in 2020, my product design experience includes everything from conceptualisation to prototyping, and I’ve developed a strong appreciation for how design impacts everyday life.

Besides working with an internationally diverse team, I feel privileged to collaborate with internationally acclaimed designer, Patricia Urquiola, and her studio in applying workplace design with an experimental approach as well as an emphasis on sustainability and wellbeing.

Why did you transition into workplace interiors?

My interest in interior design has always been innate, but it became more pronounced as I realised the profound effect that environments have on people’s experiences. In product design, I created objects with the aim of enhancing user experiences; in interior design, I get to imagine spaces that influence mood, behaviours and interactions. One of the aspects of interior design that captivates me is the opportunity to work with authentic materials — wood, stone, textiles — that people can touch and feel. Unlike in product design, where the focus might be on individual items, interior design allows for a more immersive experience.

However, I’m grateful for my product design training; with user research, trend research helps me understand how people interact with spaces. Additionally, my ability to think critically about materials, ergonomics and aesthetics plays a crucial role in creating cohesive interior environments.

Related: Idla Souiou in Behind the Brand

What’s your role at Haworth, and how does your design experience help you to do your job?

I joined Haworth in 2014 and was appointed Director of Space Design for Haworth International for Asian and European markets in 2020. My role is to oversee the development and implementation of showrooms, our brand’s presence in design and trade shows, and to support product launches to enhance workplace environments globally.

We work to craft immersive environments in our showrooms and events that not only highlight the functionality of the new products but also inspire our clients by demonstrating their potential in real-world settings. Through imaginative storytelling, creative spatial layouts and interactive displays, we ensure that each product launch captures attention, evokes emotion and clearly communicates the innovative essence of the new offerings.

I work closely with our teams to create spaces that promote intuitive spaces with productivity, wellbeing, and adaptability. My background in design allows me to understand the nuances of functionality and aesthetics. I am grateful for the opportunities at Haworth, where we lead with design and truly value our members. Being part of a company that prioritizes innovation while fostering a culture of inclusivity and respect has been incredibly rewarding. It allows us to push boundaries creatively and ensures that our team feels empowered and appreciated, which is reflected in the high-quality environments we design.

Where have you worked internationally?

Before joining Haworth, I spent 13 years at Philips Design under the creative direction of Stefano Marzano. During that time, I had the opportunity to live and work internationally, which greatly enriched my design perspective and global understanding. These experiences have shaped my approach to space design and provided me with valuable insights into different cultural contexts and user needs.

What inspires you?

I’m inspired by the collaboration with architects, interior stylists, digital artists and craft artisans. Together, we create interiors that evoke fantasy and inspiration, exploring new ways to experience visual stories. It’s the merging of different creative minds and disciplines that excites me — bringing diverse perspectives together to craft spaces that not only function beautifully but also spark the imagination.

I’m also deeply inspired by nature and the sense of peace and clarity it brings. Taking time for a digital and human detox allows me to reconnect with the natural world and recharge creatively. It’s in these moments of quiet and reflection that I find new ideas and perspectives, which I then channel into my design work.

Haworth
haworth.com

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