OUR DESIGN PHILOSOPHY IS ROOTED IN THE BELIEF THAT HOMES SHOULD BE GROUNDING, INSPIRING AND PERSONAL.
EVERY PROJECT WE TAKE ON REFLECTS A COMMITMENT TO CRAFTSMANSHIP, SUSTAINABILITY AND ORIGINALITY, ENSURING EACH SPACE FEELS BOTH INTENTIONAL AND TRANSFORMATIVE.
Our wellness-centred approach is versatile, seamlessly integrating into any aesthetic—whether modern, transitional, mid-century, or traditional—ensuring that each space embodies both style and wellbeing.
WE TAKE A CROSS-CULTURAL APPROACH, DRAWING TIMELESS DESIGN PRINCIPLES THAT EMPHASIZE FLOW, SPACIAL HARMONY AND WELLBEING.
CHERYL TAY
FOUNDER & CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Cheryl leads the creative vision behind each project with a focus on balance, clarity, and intention. Known for her ability to see the potential of a space before it’s transformed, Cheryl brings a calm, considered perspective that blends form and feeling in a way that feels both purposeful and personal.
Her work is guided by a belief in the emotional and functional power of design—creating spaces that resonate with how her clients move through life. Drawing from global influences, her Southeast Asian heritage, and a longstanding commitment to holistic living, she approaches every project with nuance, care, and quiet sophistication.
Under her direction, Intrinsic has become known for interiors that feel deeply attuned to the people who inhabit them—spaces that support clarity, connection, and a refined sense of ease.
CALVIN LAM
MANAGING DIRECTOR
Calvin’s path to Intrinsic Studio Co. has been shaped by a life of movement—growing up across multiple countries gave him a deep appreciation for the importance of grounding, stability, and connection. These values now guide his role, ensuring each project is approached with clarity, intention, and care for the people who will one day inhabit the space.
With a background in construction and IT systems, Calvin brings the operational grounding that has supported the studio’s continued growth. He thrives on solving complex challenges and connecting the dots—bridging creative vision with real-world execution in a way that feels seamless and deeply considered.
As Managing Director, Calvin plays a key role in guiding each project from concept to completion—ensuring the process feels as thoughtful as the design itself.
OUR STORY
Intrinsic Studio Co. was founded by Cheryl Tay in 2012 with a belief that the spaces we live in should restore, support and inspire. What started as Cheryl’s instinct for designing her own homes evolved into a full design practice after her first commissioned project—a remodel for her brother—confirmed her ability to create beautiful, livable spaces.
With a background in creative strategy, Cheryl brings clarity and care to every project, leading with a wellness-first philosophy and an intuitive approach to design.
In 2015, Calvin joined the studio full time, leaving a career in IT to bring his construction knowledge and systems thinking to the growing practice.
Together, Cheryl and Calvin have shaped Intrinsic into a full-service design studio known for crafting purposeful spaces—homes, wellness environments and secondary properties that support how people live today and the life they’re building next.
