New retail platform to cultivate Singapore designers in 2018

Design Orchard, a development to nurture home-grown brands and profile design talent, is looking for up-and-coming Singapore designers to participate in its retail showcase component.

The 2.5-storey development will house a retail showcase on the first level, an incubation space on the upper floors and an events space on its rooftop. Design Orchard is a joint effort by Singapore government agencies JTC and SPRING Singapore, and the Singapore Tourism Board (STB).

"We are building the design eco-system to provide the essential resources and support networks to grow promising local brands. Design Orchard supports the long-term development of design talent and the local design community for a vibrant retail industry," said SPRING Singapore's chief executive, Poon Hong Yuen.

Home-grown design company Naiise, the appointed operator for the retail showcase, will fit out the retail space with its own take on a garden-style concept. When completed, visitors will get to see and shop from more than 60 Singapore brands, across categories of fashion, lifestyle products and souvenirs. Naiise will also organise events regularly to create more enduring and non-conventional retail experiences for shoppers.

With preparations in full swing for Design Orchard, Naiise is launching an open call for designers in late November 2017. The aim is to select at least 60 local brands with original designs and unique brand stories to be featured in the retail showcase, with a focus on emerging designers who are new to market.

Design Orchard is slated for completion in the last quarter of 2018. The name was selected for its close association with the facility's location at Orchard Green in Singapore.