Michael Ong & Jeremy Tay

DIRECTORS PRESTIGE GLOBAL DESIGN

With a combined years of experience of over 40 years, Michael Ong and Jeremy Tay have ample experience to create and build luxurious interiors worthy of the finest boutique hotels for residences, show suites, hospitality and offices. Michael Ong is a London-trained, award-winning interior designer known for his mastery of multiple design tangents including modern, classical, and resort-based styles that he seamlessly blends with his signature touch of opulence and luxury. Jeremy Tay was awarded Bachelor of Biotechnology with First Class Honours, was offered two research scholarships with the Dean of the Faculty of Science during his study years in Australia. He has since chosen to follow his heart & passion in pursuing his dreams in interior design and is the other mastermind behind the resounding success.

What are you currently working on? We are currently working on a landed residential project, three condominium units and a commercial space. At the same time, we are also working on our new showroom.

How would you describe your work/design style/ethos? We wouldn’t feel that we have a specific style as we always like to challenge ourselves to any style that our clients prefer. However, we would like to add a touch of luxury in all the styles we do. Our clients and people we know told us that although we have done many projects with different styles but there is a ‘Prestige Global’ signature to the projects.

How long have you worked in this sector? Michael Ong – 26 years of experience in this industry Jeremy Tay – almost 15 years of experience in this industry

What led you to this career path? We would have to say it has never been easy. The countless sleepless nights to rush out proposals for example. But seeing our clients’ satisfaction and joy after the projects are completed. It makes us want to do this more and more. It is very satisfying indeed. I guess this is what you call Passion. Till date, we still feel the same excitement and positive energy when we work on new projects. Every day is a learning experience and that makes us continue.

Please describe a highlight of your career to date. Winning our first international design award – we were thrilled that our project which is a show home for a high-end development in Singapore bagged us three international awards, including a Asia Pacific Best Design award.

How did achieving this make you feel? The moment we received this news, we teared in delight. Couldn’t believe it at that moment. However, we are really honoured that our works are appreciated at the International level. Interior design industry is a challenging one but as long as we believe and persevere, we will see light to what we are doing. Never give up in whatever we do.

What inspires you? Always on the lookout to learn new things and listen to our clients’ needs and requirements. It is always our clients’ preference and liking that inspire us to have creative design solutions. Anything can inspire us be it nature, fashion, art and even reading a book.

What motivates you? Both clients and ourselves. Clients’ positive feedbacks make us wanting to always excel and challenge our thinking process. At the same time, we believe in self-motivation. Life has ups and downs. We always need to learn to motivate ourselves to push through difficult times. This is an important attribute that we recognise as a must-have.

Where and how do you find support? We have a very supportive team that always encourages us through their hardwork and great attitude. Our clients are wonderful too, their encouragement has always come in at the right time.

Where do you find comfort? Actually we find comfort both in work and rest. During work, we are happy that we can do what we like and passionate about. Of course, rest is equally important to be recharged and walk a longer journey.

Has the recent global pandemic changed the way in which you work? Besides having to adhere to our government regulations to fight the pandemic such as contact tracing and safe distancing, everything is still kind of the same. Design is somewhat personal so face to face meetings with clients are still important to understand the needs and feedbacks.

How will it change the global design sector? People are looking more towards design for answers and solutions as more people may want to spend their time at home. In terms of the residential aspect, we feel that clients should and will focus more on their lifestyle and requirements.

What would be your key piece of advice for emerging designers right now? It is never about ourselves. Listen to clients’ requirements. Never give up.