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ABOUT US

Chaos Design Studio is a forward-thinking multi-disciplinary design practice that has earned great recognition for its unconventional design approach, thoughtful planning, creativity and meticulous detailing. Based in Penang, an island steeped in historical and cultural heritage, the firm draws inspiration from a melting pot of influences and design vocabulary – to create bespoke spaces that are beautiful, functional and relevant to today’s lifestyles.

 

Specialising in the design and build of commercial, residential and hospitality projects, we strive to deliver unique solutions for our clients through a collaborative approach that encourages our professional teams to contribute ideas, share knowledge and expertise, and innovate new ways to solve the challenges of the built environment.

Our Humble Beginning…

The story of Chaos Design Studio begins with Charles Khor and Serena Foo, two architecture and interior design enthusiasts who first gained international exposure whilst studying and working in Melbourne, Australia in 2008. Since then, they have worked on some of the most coveted projects in Penang with several established architecture and interior design firms locally as well as property developers across the country.

 

Driven by a passion for creating thoughtful designs with meticulous attention to detail, Chaos Design Studio has grown exponentially over the years. Today, the firm continues to provide integrated architectural and interior design services to various industries in the local and regional scene, creating functional and sustainable spaces that will stand the test of time.

Bespoke Design Specialists

At the helm of Chaos Design Studio is a dedicated and qualified professional team comprising Charles Khor, Serena Foo and Vivian Khor. Although small in size, the team exudes great ambitions when it comes to setting a benchmark in the design industry, often exploring new ways to bring a touch of ingenuity and unique personality to every project.

SERVICES

As a young and vibrant design studio, we have been able to complete some of the most coveted residential, commercial and retail projects in the local scene. From start to finish, we work as a team with our clients, involving them throughout the development process in order to create a defining place that meets their requirements and expectations.

Our Services

Architectural Design
Interior Design
Design and Build
Consultation

At Chaos, we treat every project of ours as an opportunity not only to create an unparalleled design, but also as a learning experience to solve problems, overcome challenges and offer our clients realistic and feasible solutions.

01. Planning

The most crucial part of the whole process, here is where we work with the relevant parties – clients, consultants and builders – to gather information, analyse and identify potential issues and develop a feasible plan that works to our clients’ interest in every aspect possible.

02. Concept Development

Once the planning stage is finalised, our team endeavours to research, explore and imagine new concepts that are distinctive to each project. By presenting our ideas together with our philosophy, design statement and visualisation through 3D perspectives, we help our clients to better understand our design intention.

03. Design Development

Using the concept as the foundation of the design process, we will further develop the detailed drawings and documents in order to ensure that the conceptual idea is practical and feasible. Our great fascination with details has enabled us to elevate every project of ours into an unforgettable work of art.

04. Documentation

This design development process is followed by formal documentation, which covers the preparation of tender and construction drawings and documents. A positive collaboration with other consultants and contractors ensures the best possible results for our clients.

05. FF&E Selection

While concept and design is pivotal to the entire process, furniture selection, procurement and logistics matter just as much, too. Towards this end, we provide sourcing and procurement services both locally and internationally. For every project, the selection is specifically tailored to offer the best outcome.

06. Exterior Design

Our consultation service spans from concept and design development to tendering and construction, until the project is fully completed and handed over. Our passion for architectural design has driven us to deliver tailor-made designs that are unique for every project, including private residences, single building development, building façade design, alterations and ad-hoc projects.

 

07. Site Implementation

In order to achieve the best outcome for any project, we believe in cohesive management from conception to completion. Our constant monitoring and stringent quality control at our construction sites leads us to achieve results that our clients can see and feel.

OUR TEAM

OUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY

 

“OPPORTUNITIES amidst CHAOS”

Sun Tzu once said, “In the midst of chaos, there is also opportunity”.

 

This saying runs parallel to our beliefs at Chaos. Here, we stand by this principle that no matter what challenges may come our way, we are more than prepared to embrace it wholeheartedly. Apart from our passion for designs that stimulate the intellect and the senses, our forte lies in solving problems and exploring new solutions. We always believed in the silver lining of every dark cloud, we know all too well that adversity and challenges enable us to learn, grow and ultimately, achieve great things.

SERENA
FOO

CO-FOUNDER, CHAOS DESIGN STUDIO

Serena Foo is the co-founder and managing director of Chaos Design Studio, established in 2012. With a Bachelor of Science in Architecture from the University of Science Malaysia and a Master of Architecture from the University of Melbourne, she brings a wealth of expertise and a global perspective to the studio.

Combining two years of local experience in architecture and interior design with a passion for innovative and sustainable design, Serena plays a crucial role in guiding the studio’s vision. She is particularly focused on managing the studio’s operations, overseeing finance, accounting, budgeting, and procurement, ensuring that each project is executed with precision and efficiency.

Her leadership is marked by a strong emphasis on team collaboration and fostering a positive studio culture, which enables her team to thrive and deliver exceptional results across a diverse range of projects. Serena’s commitment to operational excellence and her ability to inspire those around her have been instrumental in the studio’s success.

CHARLES
KHOR

CO-FOUNDER

Charles Khor completed his Bachelor of Science in Architecture and subsequently earned his Bachelor of Architecture from the University of Science Malaysia, graduating in 2010. After gaining valuable experience in both architecture and interior design while working in Melbourne for two years, he returned to Malaysia. In 2016, Charles joined Chaos Design Studio as a co-founder after spending three years at a local architecture firm. Known for his detail-oriented approach and design-focused personality, he consistently thinks outside the box to deliver innovative solutions. Charles has been involved in a diverse array of interior design projects, including residential spaces, commercial interiors, hospitality environments, and bespoke installations.

VIVIAN KHOR

ASSOCIATE INTERIOR DESIGNER

Vivian graduated from Equator Academy of Art in Penang in 2011 with Diploma of Interior Design. She had gained 3 years of experience at local interior design firms before joining Chaos Design Studio where she has been involved in various types of projects ranging from residential to commercial. She currently holds the position of Associate Interior Designer which leads some of the major projects in the studio.

XIN YI

INTERIOR DESIGNER

With a BA (Hons) in Interior and Spatial Design from Chelsea College of Arts, University of the Arts London, aI bring over five years of experience from esteemed design firms in Malaysia and London. My portfolio encompasses a diverse range of projects, including residential, commercial, office, and hospitality spaces. I am committed to handling every project with precision and care, fostering strong relationships built on trust and collaboration.

JADEN

INTERIOR DESIGNER

I am an Interior Designer with three years of experience in the field, during which I have had the privilege of working on diverse projects. I hold a diploma from UOW University. Throughout my journey as an interior designer, I have come to realize that passion is the essential ingredient for success. It fuels my creativity, propels me forward, and empowers me to accomplish what may seem impossible.

SOO CIN

INTERIOR DESIGNER

I am an Interior Designer with over nine years of experience, graduating from Equator College with a solid foundation in design principles and creative problem-solving. Throughout my career, I have worked on a variety of projects, ensuring smooth operations and high-quality outcomes at construction sites. My goal is to deliver designs that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing, collaborating with clients, contractors, and teams to bring creative visions to life while meeting practical requirements.

CAROL WONG

INTERIOR DESIGNER

I am an Interior Designer with three years of experience in Architecture and Interior Design, holding a Master’s Degree in Architectural Design from Oxford Brookes University. I enjoy exploring various design styles, materials, and construction methods, constantly challenging my creative potential. My involvement in award-winning green building projects reflects my dedication to sustainable design. I thrive on collaboration with diverse teams to bring clients’ visions to life.

ENDISON

INTERIOR DESIGNER

I’m Endison, an interior designer with over six years of experience. I hold a diploma from Equator College, where I built a strong foundation in design principles. I specialize in residential and commercial projects, focusing on functional and aesthetically pleasing spaces that reflect clients’ unique styles. My design philosophy emphasizes balance, simplicity, and the interplay of space and functionality. Passionate about transforming environments, I collaborate closely with clients, contractors, and my design team to bring visions to life.

CHUI YING

INTERIOR DESIGNER

With four years of experience in both residential and commercial design, I hold a diploma in Interior Design from Erican College. I take pride in closely collaborating with clients to ensure their vision, preferences, and lifestyle are reflected in every project. My attention to detail guarantees that each design meets the unique needs of my clients.

AWARDS

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

GOLD AWARD

Food & Beverage (Restaurant & Bars) Category

Bird Nest Secret Dessert House

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

BRONZE AWARD

Retail Category

Bebebutterfly Boutique Store

2018 DOTY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Commercial Category

Spread Enterprise Office

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

SHORTLISTED

Corporate Offices Category

Spread Enterprise Office

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

SHORTLISTED

Residential (Apartment and Condominium) Category

“Nordisk Hygge” Condominium

DOTY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2018

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Commercial Category

Malaysia

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

GOLD AWARD

Food & Beverage Category

Malaysia

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

BRONZE AWARD

Retail Category

Malaysia

DOTY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2018

SHORTLISTED

Residential Category

Malaysia

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

SHORTLISTED

Corporate Offices Category

Malaysia

REKA INTERNATIONAL DESIGN AWARD 2018 (RIDA)

SHORTLISTED

Retail Category

Malaysia

DOTY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Commercial Category

Malaysia

IDEA Interior Design Excellence Awards 2018/2019

BRONZE AWARD

Best F&B Design 2,001-5000SQFT

Singapore

A Design Award & Competition 2019

PLATINUM

Interior Space and Exhibition Design Category

Italy

DOTY DESIGNER OF THE YEAR AWARD 2020

BEST INTERIOR DESIGN

Commercial Category

Malaysia

atap Design Awards 2020

PEOPLE’S CHOICE AWARD

Malaysia

atap Design Awards 2020

INTERIOR DESIGN AWARD

Malaysia

atap Design Awards 2020

BEST COMMERCIAL DESIGN

Malaysia

A Design Award & Competition 2020

BRONZE

Interior Space and Exhibition Design Category

Italy

Singapore Good Design Award 2020

WINNER

Interior Design

Singapore

A Design Award & Competition 2021

GOLD

Interior Space and Exhibition Design Category

Italy

A Design Award & Competition 2021

BRONZE

Interior Space and Exhibition Design Category

Italy

Good Design Award 2020

WINNER

Japan

German Design Award 2022

SPECIAL MENTION

Germany