GS05 x Shentonista: Refined

Colin is a man who wears many hats. As co-founder of The General Company, The Refinery, and Fabrix, Colin has his hands full, but seems to be enjoying every part of his work. “I was blessed to have met and worked with a lot of other inspiring individuals in the creative industry previously, which kinda set me on this path,” he says. “I’ve always wanted to create and I’m glad I’m doing that now.” We find out what else he has in the works.

1. Do you have any problems with the dress code at work? How do you personalise your outfit?

I’m fortunate enough to have the option of dictating my own dress code. I like to keep things simple so people can see me for who I am.

2. Do you have any fashion pet-peeves when it comes to workwear? Or do you have any advice for dressing up for work?

I always roll up my sleeves because I work a lot with my hands. I would say dress comfortably and purposefully.

3. If you weren’t working in your current profession, what would you be doing? Or, if you could do anything you wanted to do, what would it be?

Probably an architect or a full-time travel photographer.

4. What is one piece of advice you’d give to anyone who’s just starting work? Or a lesson you’ve learnt at your time at work?

Be humble and learn. There are always people that we can learn from.

5. What would your dream workplace be like, in terms of the actual physical space and working environment?

4m high ceilings, tonnes of natural light, open format layout with a relaxing couch, soothing music always playing in the background, a nice scent and filled with other aspiring individuals.

6. What is one thing you think you should be doing more of, or that you wish you had more time to do?

Spend quality time with my loved ones, cause I’m a self-confessed workaholic.

7. Could you tell us about a personal project that you’re working on right now, or that you would love to undertake?

I’m currently working on a private project that helps aspiring craftsmen and designers to learn and grow together as well as to create more amazing things.

8. As Singaporeans we often struggle with our national identity and sense of common culture. Do you think we have a Singaporean identity? What do you think it should be built on, and why?

I think the Singaporean identity is somewhat (or even literally) like rojak — taking elements of various cultures and putting them together into a dish that works. While it is built on the foundation of the merits of each individual ingredient on its own, it shines even more when they are pieced together harmoniously.

9. Can you name us something Singaporean that’s close to your heart? It could be your favourite local dish, homegrown musician, particular location, etc. 

Singlish. Despite it making completely no sense grammatically or figuratively at times, the soft chatter of a simple line in Singlish helps me identify Singaporeans no matter which part of the world I’m in.