A graphic designer by training, Herman Yap’s idea of escape is to be free of tech gadgets and immerse himself into his surroundings—be it on a beach, or in his Japanese zakka-inspired home based on a decorating philosophy that embraces beauty in the ordinary and everyday. The 40-something visual merchandising lecturer’s preppy, considered wardrobe combines refinement and playfulness, contrasting aesthetics that exemplify his design heroes, photographers Richard Avedon and David LaChapelle.
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“My favourite design movements are graphic designer David Carson’s unconventional and experimental typographic style, and Fabien Baron’s design and art direction for Madonna’s 1992 coffee table book, Sex.”
Sex features imagery by Steven Meisel and Fabien Baron
DREAM JOBS
“If I weren’t a design lecturer, I’d like to be a youth counsellor, run a plant shop, or be a fashion illustrator, which was my childhood dream.”
Yap’s fashion illustration
HOUSE AND HOME
“My greenhouse and safe space, my home is where I can unwind and let my emotions and creativity flow. My favourite spot is my television area and vertical green wall where I display my collection of Platyceriums. I spend most of my weekend mornings watering and misting the plants— checking for new growth never fails to excite me.”
Yap’s home is a green sanctuary and creative space
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HANDS OF TIME
“A definite treasure in my wardrobe is a Rolex watch gifted by my dad when I was 17. I didn’t think much of it then but once I entered the workforce and realised the value of money and how hard he worked to provide for us, this watch became a reminder not to be complacent and to be grateful.”
Yap’s father gave him this Rolex
BEAM ME UP
“A brand and store I trust and gotoformy sartorial needs is Beams Japan. Understated and practical, yet incredibly stylish, fresh and modern, Beams moves beyond fashion and into one’s lifestyle.”
Beams Japan in Shinjuku, Tokyo
GROOMING KIT
“I cleanse with TRUU 76 Probiotics Amino Purifying Cleanser daily, followed by SK-II Facial Treatment Essence to keep my skin soft and bright.”
SK-II Facial Treatment Essence, $254 for 160ml, Sephora
SHARP AS A TACK
“I love Thom Browne for his refined tailoring, subtle detailing and juxtaposition of uniform and everyday wear. The Moncler Gamme Bleu spring/summer 2016 collection by Thom Browne is one of my favourites.”
Moncler Gamme Bleu spring/summer 2016
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HIT THE RIGHT NOTES
“You can never go wrong with electric duo Thievery Corporation, especially their debut album Sounds from the Thievery Hi-Fi. It is a mix of trip-pop, acid jazz and reggae that immediately transports you into another realm.”
Sounds From The Thievery Hi-Fi vinyl, $24, Amazon.sg
GO, NIPPON
“Omoiyari—to have compassion and empathy towards others— is a Japanese concept which I truly respect and admire. It’s why Japan is my favourite place in the world.”
