Founded by Afzal Imram and his wife Lin Ruiyin, the label has built a reputation for sleek, minimalist designs that blend industrial inspiration with precious materials. Their pieces, ranging from everyday wear to statement accessories, reflect a global aesthetic rooted in Singaporean sensibilities. Started by Afzal and his wife Lin Ruiyin, the brand combines both their expertise, with Ruiyin a jewellery designer and Afzal an industrial designer, creating a unique cooperation between their disciplines.
Design Philosophy and Identity
Afzal Imram describes their approach as a fusion of international influences and local craftsmanship. “A global mindset is itself very Singaporean,” he says, emphasizing how the brand pairs global design trends with a commitment to quality and value. This perspective is part of a broader ecosystem of Singaporean design, where brands often adopt casual, pragmatic styles that mirror the nation’s culture.
“I feel like you can see glimpses of what could be,” he says, explaining how State Property pieces do well in this context. The brand resists rigid definitions of Singaporean identity, viewing its tenth year as an opportunity to explore rather than constrain its design language. “Now’s the time to experiment and explore what our design identity is, to define it,” Imram explains.
This ethos is evident in their collections, which draw from diverse inspirations. Their inaugural Substate collection explored themes of space and void, while their latest offering, inspired by Imram’s four-year-old son’s imagination, features whimsical elements like railroad tracks and a golden egg rendered in 18k gold, diamonds, and enamel.
Materials and Creation Process
State Property prioritizes design before material selection, ensuring each piece is conceived with purpose. Imram highlights pearls and mother-of-pearl as favorite materials, praising their “captivating” textures and layered colors. The brand’s work balances structured silhouettes with organic forms, creating pieces that are both edgy and refined. Their Cosmic Egg Jet Black Earrings, for example, combine bold enamel and diamonds to achieve a striking yet wearable aesthetic. The black enamel makes the emerald cut diamonds look like they’re floating, while gleaming golden surfaces catch so much light they seem to pulse with energy. Their use of structured silhouettes combines with precious metals in contrast to the soft lines of the body, resulting in adventurous pieces that are stylish and edgy.
Global Expansion and Celebrity Recognition
State Property’s tenth anniversary marks not just a milestone but an evidence of their evolving identity. By rejecting static definitions of Singaporean design, they continue to innovate while honoring their roots. As Imram puts it, “This is the fun part where we get to work on defining what it is that makes it Singaporean.” Their story reflects a blend of ambition, creativity, and a commitment to staying true to their vision in an ever-changing industry. The post State Property Turns 10: Afzal Imram on Design, Identity and Going Global appeared first on Solitaire Magazine.
