Drawing inspiration from traditional Asian sampan boats, Tommy Cheong’s modular Sampan benches translate maritime heritage into contemporary public seating for Singapore’s Holland Village. Carved from slatted Tembusu wood, the benches feature oiled tops that evoke classic boat decks, paired with lacquered metal sides in terracotta red or ocean blue, celebrating the area’s cultural diversity.
Crafted with care using traditional woodworking techniques, the benches come in three sizes to accommodate varied public spaces. The furniture is carefully designed in a way that comes together organically like a swarm; it can be clustered for social interaction or spaced for solitude. Their boatlike profile invites rest, reflection, and conversation—symbolically honoring Holland Village’s role as a multicultural gathering place and reinforcing connections among passersby
Image Credit: Tommy Cheong
Why This Trend Is Growing
- Cultural Fusion Furnishings
- Furniture designs that incorporate elements from diverse cultural heritage offer unique aesthetic experiences that challenge traditional market offerings.
- Modular Public Seating
- Introducing modular elements within public seating allows for flexible arrangements that cater to varying social dynamics in communal spaces.
- Sustainably Sourced Materials
- Utilizing sustainable materials such as Tembusu wood in furniture production aligns with growing consumer demand for eco-friendly products.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Furniture Design
- Innovative furniture design that draws inspiration from diverse cultures presents opportunities for distinguishing new product lines.
- Urban Planning
- Enhancing public spaces with modular and culturally significant seating solutions offers new approaches to urban development and community engagement.
- Sustainable Manufacturing
- The push for environmentally responsible manufacturing methods gains traction through the adoption of sustainably sourced materials in production.
