Molina Hun and Sujono Lim studied interior architecture together, then worked at various boutique architectural and hospitality firms before establishing their own studio Parethesis in Singapore. The parents and siblings of both are business owners in their respective countries of Cambodia and Indonesia, and so, there was an instinct for the duo to start a studio of their own. There was also a strong determination to prove that they could create their own practice away from their homes.

The studio process for each new project begins with the design brief, the users of the space, the site’s opportunities and constraints before the designing begins. Connection is important and so firstly, a relationship is secured to ensure that the design and materials resonate with the client’s lifestyle and tastes. Hun sees interior architecture as a tailored outfit; it is beautiful on its own, but it also complements and boosts the confidence of the person who wears them.

Parenthesis was established in 2018 and from a team of three, the studio has grown now to six. There are also nine team members overseas who support the practice with drawings and renderings and help aid the practice streamlining process. This setup allows Hun and the team to focus on design, problem-solving and engagements with clients and suppliers to ensure that each project is taken care of in greater detail.

The longer-term goal for Parenthesis is to train and mould young and talented designers to grow to their full design potential so that, hopefully, they can have the confidence to take on more prominent roles in the practice to continue the work that has been started.

As a young studio based in Singapore, Parenthesis works with several established developers on show flats and sales galleries that also affords the practice opportunities. But on a more personal note, Hun and Parenthesis are excited about how they can contribute back to society, especially the next generation of designers.

Photography: Headshot by Fabian Ong; The commodore – 2+study show unit, project took under Sujonohun by Khoo Guo Jie; Apartment at Holland Drive by Khoo Guo Jie; House on Lorong K Telok Kurau by Fabian Ong.