A profound belief in the value of design led Yvette to cofound a company whose focus is eco-friendly products and packaging.
What’s your story?
I have been in the homeware industry for 30 years and love designing products and creating spaces from an eco friendly focus. The home is more important to us now than ever given the economic climate and it is vital to have a haven in which to rejuvenate.
What excites you most about your industry?
In the homeware Industry my focus is not only on design but the visual aspect connected with it. I wake with passion every day to create, but more so to see others excited by the end result. My industry has so many facets that can be explored and is a constantly evolving process.
What is your connection to Asia?
I was brought to Hong Kong back in 2003 by a company for which I started their homeware division. As a child I was enthralled by the mystic stories and images of Asia, so my dream was realised! 18 years on and I still have not left or stopped discovering all the facets.
Favourite city in Asia for business and why?
My favorite city in Asia is most certainly Hong Kong – for its fast paced ethos and the ease with which one can achieve goals given its position in Asia.
What’s the best piece of advice you ever received?
The best piece of advice was one I received from a Buddhist Monk – ‘Every problem has a solution, so there is no need to stress about it.’ This thought process allows me to work out the solution to any problem even when the going gets tough. In business this has given me a reputation for being a problem solver.
Who inspires you?
Children inspire me! As adults we become somewhat blinkered at the little things that matter. Children have the unique quality of finding discovery in anything and being enthralled with it! Even when they fall down they resolutely stand up and carry on. Make believe and play is inspirational to design.
What have you just learnt recently that blew you away?
That there is no point in dwelling on what is beyond your control! Change your flow and find the missing link. For instance COVID has impacted remarkably on many businesses including ours; we looked for other opportunities to see us through.
If you had your time again, what would you do differently?
Oh my goodness, not much! Each experience in my life, good or bad, had a lesson in it . If I did it differently I wouldn’t be where I am today.
How do you unwind?
Depends on the weather ! I love exploring the streets of old Hong Kong and taking photographs for inspiration. On other days I enjoy silk painting which I have done for 25 years. It’s very therapeutic.
Favourite Asian destination for relaxation? Why?
Undoubtedly Thailand. The friendly people, the great shopping, beautiful beaches, amazing food all at a reasonable price.
Everyone in business should read this book:
The Four Hour Work Week – Tim Ferris
Shameless plug for your business:
We have over 30 years experience in homeware design, manufacture and merchandising for retailers globally. In addition we have completed and fully furnished or styled over 100 homes. Our work has won awards and appeared in numerous media channels.
How can people connect with you?
Please contact us on : [email protected].
Social Media Links?
https://www.instagram.com/desixnlabofficial
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To hear how entrepreneurs around the world overcome their challenges, search your favourite podcast platform for ‘CallumConnects‘ to hear a 5-minute daily breakdown.
Callum Laing is an entrepreneur and investor based in Singapore. He has previously started, built, and sold half a dozen businesses and is now a Partner at Unity-Group Private Equity and Co-Founder and CEO of MBH Corporation PLC. He is the author of three best-selling books ‘Progressive Partnerships’, ‘Agglomerate’, and ‘Entrepreneurial Investing’.
Connect with Callum on Twitter and LinkedIn
Download free copies of his books at www.callumlaing.com
