Cliff Tan, a Singaporean architect based in London, has become an unexpected social media sensation by bringing the ancient Chinese practice of feng shui to a new generation of followers. What started as a quarantine project in 2020 has blossomed into a thriving online presence, with Tan amassing nearly 2.9 million followers on TikTok, 800,000 on Instagram, and 1.6 million subscribers on YouTube.
Tan's journey to social media stardom began during a two-week stay in a Singapore quarantine hotel. When he entered, he had a mere 50 TikTok followers. By the time he emerged, that number had skyrocketed to over 100,000. The catalyst for this explosive growth was a series of short, engaging videos about feng shui principles, particularly focusing on practical advice such as optimal bed placement.
The appeal of Tan's content lies not only in the valuable feng shui tips he shares but also in his unique presentation style. His videos are characterized by rapid-fire delivery and often feature hand-drawn sketches of home layouts. Tan uses miniature furniture pieces to demonstrate how to create harmonious living spaces, often injecting humor into his presentations. This approach has made the sometimes esoteric principles of feng shui accessible and entertaining to a wide audience.
Tan's expertise in feng shui is not just a recent development. He comes from a lineage of feng shui practitioners, with his grandfather serving as both a practitioner and a role model. This background, combined with his architectural training, including a stint at the renowned Heatherwick Studio, has given Tan a unique perspective on blending traditional feng shui principles with modern design aesthetics.
The overwhelming response to his videos has led to a significant shift in Tan's professional focus. His design practice, Design Modern, which he founded in 2016, now primarily offers feng shui consultations. The demand for his services has grown so much that virtual consultations are booked three months in advance, with clients spanning the globe. Tan's influence has extended beyond social media, as evidenced by the success of his 2022 book, Feng Shui Modern, which offers practical guidance for creating harmonious homes on any budget.
At the core of Tan's feng shui philosophy is the belief that living spaces can significantly impact one's mental state and overall well-being. He emphasizes that feng shui is not just about aesthetics but about creating environments that promote positive energy flow. Tan often finds himself playing the role of a therapist, helping clients understand how their living spaces affect their psychology and confidence.
Tan's approach to feng shui includes both traditional principles and modern interpretations. He advises on classic feng shui rules, such as avoiding bed placements where feet point towards the bedroom door, while also offering contemporary solutions for issues like bathroom design and clutter management. His ability to blend ancient wisdom with practical, modern-day applications has made feng shui relevant and appealing to a new generation of home dwellers, cementing his status as a unique voice in the world of interior design and well-being.
