Running an interior design company in Singapore

Dr Biz • October 2, 2020

At Dr Biz, we are lucky enough to boast a vibrant, dynamic and diverse client base full of Singapore’s most exciting and innovative small and medium sized enterprises. As part of our new series celebrating the hard work that drives our clients and their businesses, we spoke to 32-year-old founder of DAS Interior Design, Anders Foo. The director shares with us the ups and downs of running his company, founded in 2018, which delivers bespoke interior and renovation services for homes and businesses that aim to bring dreams alive.

Why did you start your business?

At DAS Interior, we believe that interior design is never a static profession. It can carry different meanings or reveal itself through discoveries. I wanted to start a business that could deliver highly personalised design work that reflects bespoke quality and functionality. On a personal level, I had also always wanted to be a business owner as well. Being an employee forever was not an appealing prospect! Instead, I wanted to try to find professional and financial stability and freedom through running my own business.

How did you get started?

Well, I’ve been interested in interior design for a long time. I’m really passionate about creating beautiful and functional spaces for people to live and work in. Our surroundings have such an impact on our mental and emotional wellbeing. So, one day, I was discussing all of this with two of my friends who are in the carpentry industry and we came up with the idea of setting up an interior design firm of our own. And the rest is history!

How long have you been working with Dr Biz?

I have been working with Dr Biz for almost three years. Sharon, the founder, is my wife’s good friend and so I felt comfortable and confident from the start. As a small business owner, I don’t have a lot of time for administrative tasks - even though these are often the most important things to do! Sharon is very knowledgeable and always gives good advice and she is a fast worker too! I know my business accounts are in safe hands with Dr Biz, and that is a huge reassurance that helps me to get on with building a great interior design company.

What is the biggest challenge you have overcome as a business?

Starting a business is not easy. There’s a lot of work that happens in-between having the big idea, getting your first client and then filing your first year of accounts. For us as an interior design business especially, the initial starting up stage was tough. We didn’t really have credentials and building up a portfolio of work and clients was one of the hardest tasks. We overcame it by focussing on our vision, and communicating that through engaging content that we published on social media, as well as using targeted advertisements to attract potential clients.

Tell us a funny story about something that happened at work

Not too long ago I made a big order for quartz for a kitchen worktop that, in the end, turned out to be the wrong colour. Fortunately, the material supplier who is on very good terms with us was willing to do an exchange for us on a cost-to-cost basis. That was a big relief as quartz for interior design is very, very expensive so this is a mistake that I won’t be making again!

What is your top tip for any new business owner?

Never give up!

At Dr Biz, we provide tailored and comprehensive solutions for all entrepreneurs’ business needs. From incorporation to accountancy, tax and payroll, to professional advisory services, we help businesses in Singapore assess potential risks and become more cost effective and efficient.

To find out more, please feel free to contact us.

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