Inside the Darkroom | The creative conspirators behind The Black Party 2025

Discover how visionary curators and daring brand collaborators united seamlessly in crafting both visual narratives and product showcases that defined The Black Party 2025’s immersive atmosphere

Text by Monisha Sivanesan

By now, dear reader, you’ll have heard and read about The Black Party 2025, recently hosted by ACGMEDIA in late November. Just to recap, the all-black exclusive affair was a marvellous tribute to design and the industry’s most influential tastemakers. Honouring 100 visionary designers whose relentless pursuit of beauty and innovation continues to shape Malaysia’s creative landscape, it was an immersive evening which bore witness to art, design and connection colliding in dramatic harmony.

At the heart of the unique experience that promoted interactivity and sparked conversations were five curators who worked together like a well-oiled machine to reimagine the space into a cohesive, multi-sensory tapestry using selected pieces from 13 brand collaborators. From light-fuelled installations to vibrant furniture vignettes, get ready to meet these 18 powerhouses of design, and discover the story behind every concept realised and every product exhibited.

The Black Party 2025 Curators

IDr James Yong

IDr James Yong is the founder and chief executive designer of Kuala Lumpur-based interlink design solutions, a trailblazing design firm known for its modernist yet human-centric spaces since 2003. Renowned for his leadership and design philosophy rooted in empathy, practicality, elegance and precision, he continues to create environments—especially residential ones—that not only inspire connection and purpose but transcend the fleeting whims of trends to last the ages.

When it came to the QILS Lighting installation that glowed bright from a great distance, James found himself thinking about the vast galaxy. The otherworldly concept manifested itself by having the brand’s latest collection of colourful light fixtures, which hung from above, represent a constellation of stars. Meanwhile, the reflection of these products in the glossy black mirror panel directly below illustrates the endlessness of outer space. With regard to the polished set-up for KLOT, he came right back down to Earth and sought inspiration from the future-forward urban lifestyle of the city. What transpired was a compact and functional design that complements the brand’s kitchen and wardrobe storage systems.

IDr Leong Wei Theng

IDr Leong Wei Theng is the creative director of Metrics Global, proudly standing today as one of the leading providers of interior architecture design services for property and hospitality developments across Malaysia and Southeast Asia. Always thinking creatively to push boundaries, she wholeheartedly believes that design is a multifaceted process of creating intentional solutions that address problems, enhance experiences and communicate messages effectively.

To explore the concept of metamorphosis in action, Wei Theng engaged in a meticulous fusion of products between Global Titanium Coating and Home Master TDS. Simply put, delicate metal butterflies by the former met precious stones by the latter under the glow of movable lights with the intention of getting people to interact with them through touch. By playing with light and shadow, the intricate details of the set-up become extra prominent. For the TECE installation, the concept draws from the element and movement of water, with lights down below projected onto the various hanging flush plates to generate the illusion of submersion.

Matthew Lim

Matthew Lim is the principal of Matthew Lim Associates, an international award-winning design consultancy firm celebrated for its refined balance of creativity, functionality and cultural sensitivity. With a penchant for narrative-driven designs, he leads his team in crafting bespoke interiors that resonate with emotion and authenticity. His work spans hospitality, residential and commercial spaces, each defined by meticulous detail and modern sophistication that reflect his belief in design as both an artwork and a human experience.

When it came to the Roche Bobois installation (courtesy of Forest Furniture), Matthew’s idea was simple but impactful. In order to fulfil the mission of instilling joy into the space, it was necessary to bring out the vibrancy of the products’ various colours into the designated environment in ways that best match the strong identity of the French brand, while ensuring the individual characters of each product are showcased to the fullest without clashing with each other. On the other hand, the concept behind Atlas Plan’s set-up was centred on creating an irregular arrangement using different forms that will make the smooth slabs appear even more dynamic and striking. Meanwhile, Ligne Roset’s installation (courtesy of Tekni Furniture) was all about highlighting the intricate relationship between bold personalities and plush comforts, fuelled by the earnest intention of enticing the evening’s guests into a casual yet intimate embrace.

Vienna Chew

Vienna Chew is the design director of Millimetre Design Sdn Bhd, a multi-award-winning design consultancy and build firm she co-founded with her partner back in 2011—where they conquered the commercial development scene from offices and experience centres right up to public spaces and retail outlets. Guided by creativity, integrity and passion, each of her works reflects her tailored vision of timeless, human-centric design, embedded with what she defines as a “taste of soul.”

Initially intended to be a bookshelf, Vienna explains that the HVEA installation ultimately unfolded as a modern ode to the timeless and elegant architecture of castles. Titled ‘Pink Castle’, the concept employed three colours that followed the romantic and feminine approach taken: pink as the primary colour, followed by red and orange as the secondary ones. As for the Energy Glass installation, her ‘Sunset Lounge’ set-up was inspired by the gradient of the sky during sunset and dawn, whereby hues of purple and orange slowly fade to add depth, dimension and visual interest to the overall design.

Jemica Cheah

Jemica Cheah is the co-founder and creative director of What Design, an award-winning design company that specialises in designing attraction flows to amplify value for clients and prioritises branding as a lifestyle tastemaker. Believing in the magnetic power of emotion, the woman who is drawn towards masculine vibes and dark tones when it comes to her own personal design style declares that interior design must always reflect and materialise the client’s personality, character and lifestyle.

Following the celebratory mood of The Black Party 2025, Abitare’s space was whimsically curated with a giant gift box, complete with a sleek black bow attached, to present guests with the gift of surprise. Jemica was also influenced by nature’s quintessential elements, such as water, stone, metal and wood that evoke peace and serenity, which explains the safari-inspired wallcovering wrapping said gift. Combining the seeds of both ideas together, a TECE bathtub filled to the brim with ice cubes and beer bottles became the crowd-favourite functional centrepiece here.

The Black Party 2025 Brand Collaborators

Atlas Plan

Rising from the established roots of Ceramiche Atlas Concorde S.p.A. in 2017, Atlas Plan has carved its own path as a spearheader in the large-format slab market. Its expansive slabs offer unparalleled versatility, seamlessly integrating into a wide range of projects. From furniture elements like kitchen and bathroom countertops, backsplashes and integrated basins to worktops, tables, desks as well as wall and floor applications and ventilated facades, both indoors and outdoors, Atlas Plan delivers a comprehensive gamut of solutions for any design vision conceived.

At The Black Party 2025, an assortment of Atlas Plan slabs cut into different sizes and staged at different angles were showcased. Among them are Fior di Bosco, exuding a strong personality due to its intense grey colour decorated with golden veins, and Brazilian Quartzite-inspired Sky Stone, characterised by its delicate shades ranging from pale grey to very light blue, matt surface and three-dimensional veining. Also present was Appennino, embodying the essence of Turkish marble by possessing veins ranging from red to gold that stand out against a greyish background.

Available at Ceramiche Atlas Concorde S.p.A.

Ligne Roset

Born in France in 1860, Ligne Roset is a heritage brand that embodies modern French living. Renowned for its bold creativity and contemporary elegance, the brand collaborates with some of the world’s most visionary designers to create furniture and home accessories that blur the line between art and design. From iconic sofas and armchairs to refined tables, lighting and décor, each piece carries a sense of sophistication and comfort—reflecting the essence of French craftsmanship and lifestyle. With a commitment to design innovation and timeless aesthetics, Ligne Roset continues to inspire interiors that are as expressive as they are enduring.

At The Black Party 2025, the Togo sofas designed by Michel Ducaroy in 1973 were found, featuring a groundbreaking all-foam design known for its relaxed, “crumpled” silhouette inspired by a folded toothpaste tube. Its ergonomic comfort and lightweight form are achieved through multiple densities of polyether foam, enveloped by a generous layer of polyester quilting which produces those distinctive folds. Deemed radical and unconventional for its time, the highly customisable Togo is now a cult classic prized for its bold originality and timeless appeal.

Available at Tekni Furniture Sdn Bhd

Amazon

Recognised as a trusted one-stop destination for end-to-end, high-quality, and hassle-free interior furnishing, Amazon offers an extensive range of products that blend practicality with contemporary style. From broadloom for seamless visual continuity and carpet tiles that offer modular flexibility, to luxury wallcoverings that create a wow moment and LVT flooring that redefines comfort and class—all are thoughtfully crafted for those seeking comprehensive value without compromising affordability. Available through Abitare Sdn Bhd, Amazon ensures that your space, whether residential or commercial, is impeccably covered.

At The Black Party 2025, Amazon Avantwall®’s safari-themed custom print wallcovering was prominently exhibited, wrapping a large ‘gift’ in a sophisticated black and white palette as well as intricate details found in the wild. Backed by a high-quality non-woven backing, this series of digitally printed designs offer stunning clarity, enhanced durability, easy installation and effortless removal, which makes it the ideal choice for fashion-forward walls that reflect one’s unique style. To complement the wallcovering, a stone-hued Axminster carpet by Amazon Infinite® was featured. Crafted from a luxurious blend of premium wool and durable nylon, these completely personalised carpets deliver the perfect balance of natural softness and lasting strength.

Available at Abitare Sdn Bhd

WinPod

WinPod continues to set the benchmark for high-quality acoustic solutions in Malaysia. The brand’s commitment to balancing design, performance and user comfort is evident in every detail — from the advanced acoustic engineering to the thoughtful modularity that adapts effortlessly to evolving workplace needs. It’s encouraging to see a product that not only elevates collaboration and focus, but also genuinely enhances the overall workplace experience. Proudly available through Wintech Metal Processing Sdn Bhd, WinPod stands out as a forward-thinking choice for organisations looking to create smarter, more human-centred spaces.

At The Black Party 2025, amidst the loud, thumping beats, laid the quiet hideaway known as the D POD 3.0 Plus by WinPod. Accommodating two to four users, the portable discussion pod comes with energy-saving, motion-sensored LED lighting and air ventilation systems; HEPA-filtered air with optimal flow; 28.9 dB speech level reduction; CE-certified charging ports; an intuitive touch interface-based control hub; and ergonomic sofas. All these features allow productive tasks and discussions to transpire in a relaxed and disturbance-free fashion.

Available at Wintech Metal Processing Sdn Bhd

Roche Bobois

Founded in 1960, Roche Bobois is a world-class master in luxury furniture design and distribution, celebrated for its creativity and craftsmanship, not to mention collaborations with top designers like Marcel Wanders and Kenzo Takada as well as haute couture fashion houses such as Jean Paul Gaultier and Missoni which result in one-of-a-kind collections. With its eclectic, colourful approach that balances art and functionality in equal measure, the French brand embodies the epitome of art de vivre, effortlessly exhibiting innovation, boldness and elegance across its pieces.

At The Black Party 2025, taking centre stage was the iconic Mah Jong modular sofa designed by Hans Hopfer back in 1971, paired with the Ovni Up round cocktail tables and Reine floor lamps. Celebrating freedom of form and expression, the sofa has been upholstered in a colourful fabric featuring zigzag and floral motifs created by Missoni in honour of the best-selling product’s 50th anniversary held in 2021. It can be stacked, aligned or scattered to create ever-changing arrangements that reflect individual creativity.

Available at Forest Furniture

HVEA

HVEA, founded in 1993 with over 30 years of expertise in melamine-faced chipboard (MFC), redefines the standard of premium MFC. Made from 100% rubberwood, it combines authentic surface realism, core strength and design flexibility. Using European steel plate technology, synchronized embossing and high-definition printing, each board recreates the true touch and texture of natural wood. Utilising the advanced German Dieffenbacher production line, HVEA MFC delivers lasting durability, stability and even curving capability rarely achieved in MFC. Certified JIS F☆☆☆☆, it ensures ultra-low formaldehyde, antibacterial protection and fresh, odour-free interiors—truly “Restore The True Touch.”

At The Black Party 2025, large walk-through structures with soft arch motifs in pink were erected, finished with an IG-worthy, reflective and highly flexible laminate at one end that enforces no limits on bending designs—unlike a mirror. Completing the set-up are multiple display pillars of varying heights in red and orange, with square and rectangular samples of the premium melamine-faced chipboard (MFC) in which this whole installation is made from, placed atop each one. Better yet, each sample was tied with a black balloon for guests to take home as a door gift, making it an even more interactive exhibit.

Available at HVEA Select Sdn Bhd

Q Innovatio Lighting Solutions

Q Innovatio Lighting Solutions (QILS Lighting) is a distinguished presence in Malaysia’s lighting industry, dedicated to transforming spaces through the art and science of illumination. Guided by its mission to deliver premium lighting experiences for both commercial developments and private luxury residences, the company harmonises functionality with refined aesthetics in every project. Offering comprehensive services from conceptual proposals and detailed design to attentive after-sales support, QILS Lighting ensures excellence at every stage. Rooted in a design philosophy that embraces the seamless integration of lighting within its environment, the company remains committed to creating with creativity, continuity and connection at its core.

At The Black Party 2025, radiating an incandescent presence was the bright cluster of artificial lights tagged under the new Flagship Series, exhibiting a different kind of balance between elegance and innovation. Some of its central features include a premium aluminium build that’s durable, sleek and heat resistant; multiple colour options to merge into any design aesthetic; as well as an IP20 rating and a registered trademark to ensure reliability in performance and authenticity in quality.

Available at Q Innovatio Lighting Solutions

KLOT

KLOT is a premium brand specialising in kitchen storage systems, wardrobe storage solutions and furniture-integrated LED lighting systems. Each has been thoughtfully engineered to elevate the modern living experience through intelligent designs, seamless functionality and refined aesthetics. In collaboration with global trailblazers such as Häfele, Blum, Salice and HAWA Sliding Solutions, KLOT’s vision becomes even clearer: to be the leading provider of high-quality interior fittings in the ASEAN market, offering trend-setting innovations and unparalleled service that exceed customer expectations in order to create superior living environments.

At The Black Party 2025, the user-friendly KLOT wardrobe and kitchen storage systems were highlighted. When it comes to the many thoughtful components, the former includes a pull-out clothes hanger, pull-out rotary shoe rack, trousers rack and leather jewellery tray, while the latter features a cupboard lifter, cookware pull-out basket, two-layer spice rack and corner swing tray. With durable construction, minimalist designs and easy adjustability, both systems prioritise efficient space use, accessibility and organisation to ensure long-term daily use.

Available at KLOT Resources (M) Sdn Bhd

Global Titanium Coating Sdn Bhd

A reputable name in the Physical Vapour Deposition (PVD) coatings industry since its establishment in 2016, Global Titanium Coating Sdn Bhd takes pride in offering a comprehensive array of exceptional services tailored to its clients’ many unique needs such as stainless steel V-cut, bending and cutting, bead blast coating, coating colour for stainless steel and mild steel works. Its products are applied across an assortment of industries, notably in construction, hospitality, retail, furniture and design. What sets it apart is its state-of-the-art manufacturing plant, enabling the company to provide competitive pricing without compromising on quality and style.

At The Black Party 2025, guests couldn’t resist fluttering towards the dozens of butterflies gently perched on a giant slab of unique sintered stone. To be accurate, those winged insects are man-made, shaped from golden metal pieces that have undergone a myriad of technical processes. One of them is the Physical Vapour Decomposition (PVD) plate coating, a vacuum-based process in which a thin film of material is deposited onto a substrate that enhances the substrate’s properties or provides decorative finishes. Not long after that, the metal sheet was laser cut—a non-contact approach—to ensure high-quality, dimensionally accurate cuts for every single piece.

Available at Global Titanium Coating Sdn Bhd

TECE

Founded in 1987, TECE is a family-led company that has grown into a trusted global manufacturer of sanitaryware and installation systems known for merging functionality, design and reliability. With around 1,780 employees, 22 subsidiaries worldwide and 5 production sites, it combines German engineering expertise with an international outlook. With the “water in, water out” concept, founder Thomas Fehlings defined the company’s core competence: create intelligent bathroom solutions that balance user comfort with the needs of planners, architects and installers in ways that continue shaping modern living spaces with quality and precision.

At The Black Party 2025, the following family of flush plates were artistically displayed: TECEsquare, TECEvelvet, TECEloop, TECEsolid and TECEnow. While there are certainly some differences between them, this collection shares core similarities spanning both aesthetic and function. Each one is designed with a modern minimalist aesthetic that favours geometric shapes, extra flat yet durable profiles and diverse finishes, offering dual-flush functionality to suit contemporary bathrooms. All of them are compatible with TECE’s universal cistern, permitting interchangeability regardless of series and release year—even after decades.

Available at TECE South East Asia Pte Ltd

Home Master TDS Sdn Bhd

Registered in 2023, Home Master TDS Sdn Bhd has remained committed to supplying luxury, innovative and high-quality products to the Malaysian tile market. Priding itself on the team’s 30-year long expertise and experience, the company is dedicated to exceeding customer expectations by guaranteeing impeccable service and delivering the most exquisite tile designs to elevate any space with style and class. It has partnered with Taicera, Roman and Eagle Ceramics, some of the global industry’s leading players who are renowned for their superior craftsmanship, cutting-edge designs and exceptional durability.

At The Black Party 2025, attention was rightfully called to the rare and precious Four Seasons Pink sintered stone translated from breccia marble, sourced from Cambodia for the Exquisite Stones on Sintered Stone series. It features an elegant blend of grey and soft white tones, interlaced with deep grey veins that contrast the delicate dry-rose pink speckles scattered across its surface. Its shading, veining and subtle shifts forge a dynamic visual rhythm that feels refined and organic. Crafted into sintered stone, this beauty becomes a statement of luxury and a practical choice for high-performance interiors.

Available at Home Master TDS Sdn Bhd

Energy Glass World Art Sdn Bhd

Incorporated in 2005, Energy Glass World Art Sdn Bhd is a trusted leader in aluminium and glass innovation. With over 20 years of experience and more than 500 customised products on offer, the company specialises in household aluminium glass doors, glass processing works as well as tempered and laminated glass production. It has successfully streamlined R&D, manufacturing and sales under one roof to deliver quality, efficiency and reliability. Guided by honesty and integrity, Energy Glass ensures realistic project timelines and budgets, genuine products made in its headquarters and exceptional customer service dedicated to continuous improvement.

At The Black Party 2025, a whole catalogue of glass samples was propped systematically atop a display counter, further accentuated by strips of LED lighting. Among them are 5mm glass types for the popular minimalist series of aluminium glass doors, comprising tinted, clear, coloured and tempered; these come with five different surface finishes to perfectly suit any style and space. Offering a sleek, modern design paired with durable construction, these are ideally applied to wardrobes, bookcases and display cabinets for both residential and commercial interiors seeking elegance and functionality.

Available at Energy Glass World Art Sdn Bhd

Ilmugaya

Established in 2007, Ilmugaya brings over 35 years of industry experience through its skilled in-house team of designers, quantity surveyors, project managers and site supervisors. As a turnkey contractor, the company specialises in carpentry manufacturing and interior renovation while managing all aspects of communication and coordination for its clients. With various projects across Malaysia—including offices, showrooms and residences—Ilmugaya partners with trusted subcontractors to deliver high-quality and durable results. Its client-focused approach ensures practically and visually appealing designs backed by reliable after-sales service, setting the company apart through efficiency, craftsmanship and long-lasting value.

At The Black Party 2025, there was a great deal of carpentry work discovered all throughout the space, discreetly showing off their impeccable quality in all forms and sizes, in conjunction with the works of other brand collaborators. Of course, that’s also attributed to the fact that Ilmugaya is also the event’s trusted build partner. From Roche Bobois’ rectangular block decor in pink, orange and magenta and Ligne Roset’s fabric rack display to QILS Lighting’s framed black booth and Abitare’s ‘gift box’, these diverse builds subtly highlight their unwavering support for these brand collaborators and curators—in both a literal and metaphorical sense.

Available at Ilmugaya Sdn Bhd

For more information on The Black Party 2025, head over to the official Facebook pages for Metropolitan Home and Design United