Design
September 12, 2024
Simon Ong’s Five-Decade Career in Design: A Lifetime Achievement Spotlight
Published on December 13, 2024 | by DSGN arcHive
Join us for a tête-à-tête with the man himself, as he shares his remarkable journey and key milestones in design.
How does one pioneer a design legacy that spans continents and decades? Simon Ong, the visionary co-founder of Kingsmen Creatives Ltd, has set the benchmark for experiential design since 1976. From transforming retail spaces into immersive havens to crafting iconic exhibitions and cultural showcases, Simon’s journey has been defined by bold creativity, an unwavering pursuit of excellence, and a forward-thinking vision that has redefined how people experience spaces.
Recently honoured with the prestigious Lifetime Achievement Award at the Singapore Interior Design Awards 2024, Simon’s influence extends far beyond aesthetics. His work is a seamless fusion of creativity, innovation, and cultural sensitivity, addressing the evolving needs of industries while leaving a lasting impact on communities. From adapting to emerging technologies to championing sustainability in design, Simon’s nearly five-decade-long career continues to inspire a new generation of designers.
We caught up with Simon Ong for a tête-à-tête about his remarkable journey, the milestones that have shaped his career, and the lessons he hopes to pass on. Keep scrolling for the whole scoop!
Simon Ong’s Five-Decade Impact on Design
1. You’ve been at the forefront of experiential design for decades. How has the field evolved during your career, and what trends do you foresee shaping its future?
When I co-founded Kingsmen in 1976, I chose to focus on commercial design as Singapore was emerging as a premier shopping destination and convention hub. It was a strategic time to align design with the nation’s ambitions and contribute to shaping its evolving landscape.
At its core, design has always been about creating the best possible experience for users. Whether it’s retail, exhibitions, events, or museums, our focus has been on crafting spaces that engage, inspire, and connect with people.
Over the decades, experiential design has undergone remarkable evolution, driven by technological advancements and changing consumer expectations. Today, digital integration, personalisation, and sustainability are key forces reshaping the way we approach design.
Looking ahead, I believe immersive technologies like AR and AI will play a pivotal role in creating even more seamless and transformative experiences.
To remain relevant, designers must continually innovate, adapt, and anticipate future needs, all while staying true to the timeless principle of putting the user at the heart of every design.
2. Under your leadership, Kingsmen has earned numerous prestigious awards. How do you ensure the brand remains innovative and relevant across diverse markets in Asia-Pacific and North America?
I am privileged to lead a team of 300 exceptionally talented designers, guided by a dedicated group of creative directors who are both passionate and relentless in their pursuit of excellence. Their “never-say-die” attitude consistently pushes boundaries and drives innovation in everything we do.
The Kingsmen brand and its culture play a pivotal role in shaping our processes and ensuring a unified vision across our global offices. By fostering a culture that values creativity, collaboration, and adaptability, we ensure that our work remains relevant and resonates in diverse markets across Asia-Pacific and North America.
This combination of talent, resilience, and a strong organisational culture enables us to continually innovate and deliver impactful solutions that are tailored to the unique needs of our clients and markets.
3. As an advocate for education and a mentor to many in the design field, what do you believe are the most critical skills the next generation of designers should cultivate?
Fundamentally, designers must remain curious and eager to learn. Curiosity fuels creativity and innovation, while a strong drive for excellence pushes us to continuously improve.
Beyond multidisciplinary approaches, future designers should embrace transdisciplinary thinking. By integrating knowledge from diverse fields, they can better understand and address the complex, ever-evolving needs of the market.
Above all, I encourage the next generation of designers to view design not just as a career, but as a calling. Design has the power to make a meaningful and lasting impact globally, shaping industries, societies, and lives.
4. Having led Kingsmen’s strategic planning while upholding its creative and brand standards, what advice would you offer young designers striving to harmonise business acumen with artistic innovation?
My advice to young designers is to seek partnerships that complement your strengths rather than mirror them. Collaborating with individuals who brings different perspectives and skills can help bridge gaps in your expertise, creating a more balanced approach to both business and creative innovation.
In business, I firmly believe in the principle of fairness. Whether working with partners, staff, or clients, mutual respect and integrity should be the foundation of every interaction. This mindset not only builds trust but also creates an environment where both creativity and business acumen can thrive in harmony.
By embracing collaboration and upholding fairness, young designers can navigate the complexities of balancing artistic vision with strategic business goals, ensuring both creative excellence and sustainable success.
5. Having served in various advisory and leadership roles, what do you see as the biggest challenges facing the interior design and retail environments industries today?
I firmly believe that there are no “sunset industries,” only “sunset companies”—those that fail to innovate and adapt to changing times.
The interior design and retail environments industries are no exception. The design landscape is constantly evolving, shaped by shifting consumer behaviours, technological advancements, and increasing sustainability demands. To stay relevant, companies must embrace innovation, continuously reimagine their offerings, and stay attuned to the needs and aspirations of their customers.
The key challenge is finding the balance between creativity and practicality, particularly when addressing the growing focus on sustainability and integrating digital experiences. However, by staying forward-thinking and adaptable, the industry can continue to thrive in an ever-changing world.
6. How do you see design shaping cultural and economic landscapes in regions like Singapore and beyond?
Design plays a crucial role in shaping both cultural and economic landscapes, especially in dynamic regions like Singapore. Culturally, design reflects and preserves the unique identities and heritage of a community while also fostering innovation and creativity. It bridges tradition with modernity, enabling meaningful engagement across diverse audiences.
Economically, design is a powerful driver of growth. In Singapore, for instance, it has been instrumental in transforming the city into a global hub for retail, tourism, and events. As Singapore transitions from a knowledge economy to an innovation economy, design is a key driver in this evolution. By enhancing user experiences, building stronger brand identities, and creating environments that foster interaction and commerce, design adds tangible value across industries.
Looking ahead, I see design continuing to lead the way in addressing global challenges, such as sustainability and urbanisation. By blending functionality, innovation, and cultural sensitivity, design has the potential to create solutions that not only elevate industries but also enrich lives across borders.
7. From your induction into the SHOP! Hall of Fame to Kingsmen's numerous prestigious awards, your achievements are truly remarkable. Which milestone are you most proud of, and why?
While I am deeply humbled and honoured by personal accolades like the SHOP! Hall of Fame and Lifetime Achievement Awards, these are individual recognitions. What truly fills me with pride are the awards that celebrate the collective efforts of my team.
Milestones such as The President Design Award, the SG Mark Awards, APSDA Awards, and the Retail Design Institute Awards hold special significance. These accolades recognise the creativity, dedication, and hard work of the entire Kingsmen team. They are a testament to the power of collaboration and our shared commitment to excellence in design. It’s these team achievements that truly inspire and motivate me.
8. Winning the Lifetime Achievement Award is a testament to your enduring influence. What legacy do you hope to leave behind, and how do you wish to inspire future designers globally?
Winning the Lifetime Achievement Award is a tremendous honour and a humbling recognition of a journey shaped by collaboration, creativity, and resilience. My hope is that the legacy I leave behind celebrates the transformative power of design—not just as a problem-solving, but as a force to connect people, evoke emotions, and create meaningful experiences.
For future designers, I wish to inspire a mindset of curiosity and adaptability. The world is constantly evolving, and with it, the role of design continues to grow in significance. Embracing change, thinking boldly, and staying grounded in the core values of integrity, empathy, and purpose are essential for creating work that truly resonates.
Thank you, Simon, for sharing such inspiring and thought-provoking insights with us! Click here to learn more about the Singapore Interior Design Awards 2024.
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About DSGN arcHive
DSGN arcHive is your exclusive key to unveiling the enigmatic essence of a city, all filtered through the prism of design. Far from the ordinary tourist paths. We reveal the city’s architectural marvels, urban intricacies, cultural tapestry, and eco-conscious revolutions that mold its distinctive soul. With us, you’re invited to savor the metropolis in an entirely chic and sophisticated light, a city that’s far more than what meets the eye.
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