Interior designer Thomas Chan of Thomas Chan Designs constantly searches for original concepts. 'I don't like repeating an idea that's been used,' he says. 'Things that are too popular are not for me.' Favourite homeware shop 'Anterra [5 Blue Pool Road, Happy Valley, tel: 2577 5716]. It has classy and stylish furniture and accessories.' Favourite living designer 'French designer Andree Putman [ www.andreeputman.com ] for her ultra simple design and minimum use of colours. You could call her the founder of minimalism.' Favourite design magazines 'Arbitare [ www.abitare.it ]. It's an Italian magazine that's not just about interior design, but also lifestyle, graphics, fashion and packaging. It's not commercial and is quite academic.' Design no-no 'The 1970s retro style that's sweeping the globe. I see the 70s as a decade of bad taste. Now, so many designers in their 30s are adopting the style. It may be a novelty for them because they were born then. Not for me.' What's on top of your wish list? 'An indoor swimming pool. The sound of water and the reflections of the pool's surrounding objects would create a calming effect.' Favourite place for inspiration 'It can be anything from a shopping area to a restaurant. You can take note of the ambience, decor and the people to find something stimulating.'
