Founded by Saurabh Mangla in 2016 and based in Singapore's historic Tan Boon Liat building, ipse ipsa ipsum is a sustainable luxury furniture brand merging traditional craftsmanship with contemporary design. By collaborating with renowned designers like Nathan Yong and Jeremy Sun, the brand creates handcrafted pieces that balance artistry and function. Sustainability is at the heart of their approach, utilising eco-friendly processes and ethically sourced materials, including recycled bone and Mother of Pearl, to produce thoughtfully designed, environmentally responsible furniture.
On the right: Founder Saurabh Mangla.
At ipse ipsa ipsum, the brand is defined by five core values:
-Crafting Better Lives: We support artisans by preserving traditional techniques, creating handcrafted products that also provide meaningful income for their communities.
-Made to Last: Our designs focus on quality, functionality, and longevity, ensuring each piece endures beyond trends.
-Materials That Matter: Sustainability is key. We prioritise responsibly sourced, eco-friendly materials like khadi cotton and recycled bone.
-Affordability & Accessibility: We make sustainable, handcrafted luxury affordable, enhancing everyday spaces without extra cost.
-Customised for You: Our on-demand customisation ensures each piece reflects personal style, making every design truly unique.
These values shape our commitment to craftsmanship, sustainability, and individuality.
How does ipse ipsa ipsum translate current interior design trends into products that are both timeless and functional?
'At ipse ipsa ipsum, we navigate current design trends by focusing on three key elements: regenerative materials, heritage, and technology. We are reimagining how we use materials that are not only healthy for humans but also for the planet. Our design philosophy blends these principles with the diverse personas of our clients—ensuring that each product is timeless and functional.'
'Our recent Biome Collection, developed in collaboration with a microbiologist and product designer, exemplifies how we integrate regenerative materials into our furniture. Similarly, our Neutral Artefact and Neural Mono Block, created with Immanuel Koh, showcase how AI can be used to enhance storytelling and design while staying true to sustainability. We are also pushing boundaries through our collaboration with a Singaporean Institute of Higher Learning, where we use spent coffee ground waste to create innovative furniture pieces and accents. By merging heritage techniques with cutting-edge technology, we continue to produce designs that meet contemporary trends while remaining functional and environmentally responsible.'
What challenges and opportunities do you see in the future of the interior market, especially for the trade in Europe?
'The interior design market in general and that in Europe, in particular, faces challenges, particularly with conventional business models that focus primarily on value rather than sustainability. We see a major opportunity in promoting sustainability, not just for consumer health, but also for the health of the planet. For instance, using materials that are good for the earth and soil is crucial,' says Saurabh Mangla.
'In the EU market, we made our debut at Maison&Objet in Paris in early 2023, presenting world-class designs crafted from ethically sourced materials. Our booth, made from corrugated sheets, emphasise the need for brands to minimise their carbon footprint. As we expand into the European market, we are focused on partnering with architects, designers, and distributors who share our vision and can represent our brand ethos as we look for new opportunities to engage with the European market.'
What can we expect from ipse ipsa ipsum in the coming years in terms of new product lines or international expansion (in Europe)?
'The European market has been challenging over the past two years, but we remain optimistic that conditions will improve. Despite these challenges, at ipse ipsa ipsum, we are relentless in our pursuit of creativity and innovation.
We continue to explore new designs and collaborations to develop unique product lines as green solutions that augment other brand's green journey. While waiting for new partnerships in Europe, we are focusing on expanding in Asia and refining our offerings to ensure that when the market does turn, we are well-positioned with fresh and sustainable designs.'
More information:
ipse ipsa ipsum
[email protected]
www.ipseipsaipsum.com
Singapore