WantedDesign Member
Discover the unique stories and creative journeys of our WantedDesign members as they share their inspirations, design philosophies, and standout work.
Mai Tran
SREPOKK
Designer
I am a servant to my own curiosity, constantly captivated by the world around me. I have an insatiable desire to explore and discover, and I can’t help but use my own design language to recreate what I see, transforming it into tangible objects
Design Approach and Inspiration
My work principle: I always respect traditional craftsmanship techniques, but I believe that we should not just preserve them as we conserve antiques in museums. Instead, traditional craftsmanship should be integrated and even combined with modern scientific advances to not only preserve long-standing cultural values but also renew and elevate them. I believe this is the best way for heritage to not only be preserved but also find a place in our warm, modern homes.
My creative inspiration: Each design has its own story, inspired by the things I’ve seen, the people I’ve met, and sometimes, by my own experiences
Get to know them better...
What’s the one item in your home that you can’t live without, and why?
MT: Pencil and sketchbook are my essentials. I can’t organize my life or calm my chaotic mind without them.
What’s your go-to playlist or song when you need a creative boost?
MT: I love natural sounds like birdsong, rain, forest, and the sound of waves. They help me because I find it hard to stay focused on something for too long
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
MT: Chef or writer—if I retire soon from my design career, I’d love to try one or both of these. They allow to mix limited ingredients into something new. Just like a painter uses a few basic colors to create endless works, a musician uses a handful of notes to compose millions of songs, and a designer plays with a few shapes and materials to craft countless designs. I hope to cook new dishes and write a short novel before moving on to the next life.
My dream
MT: Through my work, I blend traditional Vietnamese craftsmanship with contemporary design, creating pieces that tell the story of Vietnam’s rich heritage. After learning from artisans in ethnic minority communities, I’ve gained a deep appreciation for indigenous materials and age-old techniques. My brand, Srepokk, celebrates these traditions while crafting functional, beautiful products for modern homes.
I aim to expand internationally, sharing these cultural stories with the world. By building a sustainable brand, I hope to empower artisans, preserve our heritage, and create designs that bridge past and future. My creative inspiration: Each design has its own story, inspired by the things I’ve seen, the people I’ve met, and sometimes, by my own experiences
