In this edition of Sol Meets, we sit down with Samantha, the Co-Founder of Humble Haus, to discuss her journey from HDB renovations to high-concept commercial projects. From her mastery of "light layering" to the clever way on how she balances mid-century soul with modern functionality.
Read on to discover her philosophy on creating "character-driven" homes.
Pictured Above: Isa V3®, Nocte Carra S5 V2 and COB LED Strips
Tell us about yourself and how Humblehaus came to be.
I’m Samantha, an interior designer who treats spaces like stories to be understood, not just styled. After graduating, I built my career from the ground up, cutting my teeth on everything from HDBs and condos to commercial projects. For me, design is a puzzle: I love the challenge of taking a client’s vague ideas and translating them into something functional, real, and beautiful. Starting Humble Haus was a natural evolution—it gave me the autonomy to design with more intention and build a brand that reflects my own creative voice.
Your interest in commercial projects - what’s your creative process and why is that more fun for you?
Commercial work offers a different kind of creative freedom. It allows me to be bolder and more experimental than residential projects typically permit. Designing for a brand or a business is about creating dynamic, purpose-driven environments that are highly expressive. It’s a different lens that keeps my process exciting and constantly evolving.
Pictured Above: Isa V3® and COB LED Strips (left), Isa V3® (right)
How tailored can an interior design be to the client’s lifestyle? What's one project that you’re proud of and it was super detailed in the brief and design.
A walk-up condo in Siglap for a pair of retirees. The brief was highly detailed; they wanted a "forever home" optimised for hosting. We reconfigured the layout by shifting the bathroom and helper's room to create an open, welcoming kitchen at the entrance. Because the owner is a home chef, we integrated a concealed door system, allowing the kitchen to transform from an open social hub into a contained professional cooking space. It’s a project where every detail was precisely tuned to their lifestyle.
How would you "The goal is always a balance between intention and livability." describe your design signature? "The goal is always a balance between intention and livability."
My signature is defined by identity over aesthetics. While I gravitate toward mid-century influences and character-driven design, I don’t adhere to a fixed "look." Instead, I layer structured forms with warmth. The goal is always a balance between intention and livability.
Pictured Above: Nocte Carra S5 V2 (left), Pressed (right)
How has your approach to design and lighting evolved over the years?
I’ve shifted from seeing lighting as a way to make a room look "nice" to understanding it as the primary tool for how a room feels. Early in my career, it was an afterthought; now, it’s a core component of the initial design. I focus on layers—ambient, task, and accent—and how they interact with materials throughout the day to shape mood and usability.
Where do you find inspiration?
Inspiration comes from everyday observation—watching how people interact with their environments and noticing the small details of how things are put together. Traveling is also vital; seeing how design translates across different cultures and contexts helps me keep my perspective fresh.
Pictured Above: Voli® V2 and COB LED Strips
How would you incorporate this movement or design philosophy to your projects?
I use it as a framework rather than a rigid style. I start with a grounded base—warm woods, neutral tones, and clean lines—focusing on proportion and simplicity to avoid an "overdesigned" look. This calm foundation then allows the client’s personality to shine through in the textures and accent pieces, ensuring every home feels distinct yet enduring.
What does light layering mea"Light layering is about building depth."n to you and how does that highlight your design and architecture? "Light layering is about building depth."
Light layering is about building depth. By avoiding a single, flat light source, I can control the hierarchy of a space—drawing the eye to a textured wall, a feature panel, or a transition zone. It adds dimension and contrast, turning a room into something you don't just see, but experience.
Pictured Above: Isa V3® Mini (left), Isa V3®, Nocte Carra S5 V2 and COB LED Strips (right)
What about mid-century design do you appreciate?
I love its timeless foundation. The palette creates a naturally cosy, balanced mood that is never too harsh. It provides a clean, evergreen base that allows for flexibility; you can layer in unique character through soft furnishings and details without the space ever feeling dated or unstable.
What do you envision homes will evolve to in the next 1-2 years?
Homes are becoming much more lifestyle-driven. The "one-room, one-function" era is over. As living, working, and hosting overlap, layouts must become more fluid and adaptable. We’ll also see a deeper focus on the sensory experience—using lighting and materiality to prioritise emotional well-being over just visual appeal.
