While flash-deals and discount sites have come-&-go, and some have steadily survived (Brandsfever, Groupon, Deal.com.sg), we see the new trend of design-oriented e-commerce taking ground here in sunny Singapore.

HipVan.com, a Singapore-based e-commerce set out to curate designer items both locally and regionally produced, founded by former SMU alumni, Deborah Wee, the site has seen stellar growth from its initial conception about a year ago. From designer bedding-sheets to space-saving furniture pieces, HipVan has been compared to US-based Fab.com when it comes to catering to the design-conscious consumers. While the the UX and interaction value has yet to match-up to Fab, we foresee that this start-up is here to stay given its wide array of high-quality products and the growing design conscious buyers in the market.

Another start-up that has recently been in the buzz is Haystakt.com – an e-commerce that has branded itself as ‘a maker’s marketplace’. Haystakt’s curated items hold more focus on craftsman/artisans’ products and hand-made items thus the label ‘maker’s marketplace‘. Founded by two guys, Joel & Melvin, Haystakt recently participated in 100% Design Singapore held in September, and has since attracted regional press and global demand for its array of product offerings and bold focus on hand-made items, such as the home-made 3D printers.

If you would like to get your hands on a 3D-printer made in Singapore, check out Portabee Go on their site, this is going into our X’mas wishlist. What do you mean, it’s only November? Happy shopping folks 🙂