Colin Seah, founder of Ministry of Design, has moved beyond bold and irreverent statements to create spaces that feel genuinely welcoming and tailored—such as his latest project, the renovated Stamford Place, where comfort and familiarity take center stage.
- Stamford Place designed to feel like a comfortable home.
- Seah rethinks the typical serviced apartment concept.
- Project blends modern design with heritage elements.
What happened
Colin Seah, the acclaimed Singapore designer and founder of Ministry of Design, recently completed the renovation of Stamford Place, a mixed-use heritage building known for its iconic clock tower. The project transformed the space into serviced apartments under the new brand APT, featuring 66 units with a calm cream palette and welcoming curves designed for long-term guests.
Rather than relying on his signature bold and quirky style, Seah’s latest work focuses on warmth and comfort, fostering an environment where guests can truly feel at home. Alongside the apartments, the renovation includes refreshed facade elements, a new restaurant, co-working spaces, and retail tenancies, all meant to maintain the building’s historic charm while updating its function.
Why it feels good
Seah’s evolving design philosophy reflects a mature shift from striking visuals to meaningful comfort. Recognizing that extended stays call for a different atmosphere than short hotel visits, the design avoids flashy or overwhelming aesthetics in favor of subtle features that invite guests to relax and be themselves.
By drawing inspiration from neighboring colonial architecture and incorporating natural materials like rattan and terracotta tiles, the space integrates local heritage with contemporary comfort. This balance creates a laid-back, approachable environment that welcomes diverse visitors, including students and professionals in the Civic District.
What to enjoy or watch next
Visitors and residents can look forward to enjoying the new Stamford Social restaurant, offering a vibrant dining spot within the complex. Additionally, The Great Room, a new co-working space by Industrious, provides a modern hub for remote workers and entrepreneurs in the area, reflecting the project's community-friendly vision.
For those interested in design evolution, watching how Ministry of Design continues to blend rebellion with refinement will be exciting. Colin Seah’s journey suggests future projects will keep pushing boundaries in unique, thoughtful ways that prioritize both creativity and livability.