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FabArt Café: Revitalizing Somerset Belt’s Youth Art Scene

Updated: Apr 3


From left to right: Law Zhenwen (SUTD), Nadia Binte Sulaiman (ITE), Tok Oei Kee Jennifer (NAFA), Samuel Tan Zhi Kai (NP) & Tan Bee Thiam (SP) (S. Facilitator)
From left to right: Law Zhenwen (SUTD), Nadia Binte Sulaiman (ITE), Tok Oei Kee Jennifer (NAFA), Samuel Tan Zhi Kai (NP) & Tan Bee Thiam (SP) (S. Facilitator)

Project Overview

FabArt Café is a collaborative initiative aimed at transforming Somerset Belt into a dynamic and inclusive space for young creators. Developed in partnership with teammates from various educational institutions, this project addresses the declining youth engagement in the area by providing a hub that merges art, design, technology, and entrepreneurship. The goal is to rekindle the youth art scene through a fabrication and art café that serves as a makerspace, marketplace, and creative incubator.


The Problem & Solution

Challenges Identified:

  • Lack of Publicity: Many young people are unaware of creative opportunities at Somerset Belt.

  • Niche Appeal: The area primarily attracts skaters and dancers, limiting broader youth participation.

  • Branding Issues: Existing creative spaces lack a strong identity that resonates with the younger generation.


Our Solution:

FabArt Café is a multifunctional space designed to empower young creators by offering:

  • A Maker's Haven: Equipped with 3D printers, CNC machines, woodworking tools, and textiles stations.


  • A Youth-Led Marketplace: A space for young artists to exhibit, sell, and showcase their work.


  • Dynamic Workshops & Events: Programs designed and voted on by youths, providing a community-driven learning environment.


  • A Cozy Café & Social Hub: A relaxing retreat where creators can network, recharge, and collaborate.


  • Entrepreneurial Support: Resources, mentorship, and funding opportunities to help young artists turn their ideas into reality.


  • Sustainability & Social Impact: A commitment to eco-friendly practices and inclusivity, ensuring the space benefits all members of the community.


Key Features & Impact

Makerspace: Tools & facilities for artists & designers to prototype and experiment.

Workshops & Events: Youth-led programs that allow skill-sharing and community growth.

Marketplace: A launchpad for young entrepreneurs to showcase and sell their creations.

Social Enterprise Model: A portion of proceeds funds youth development and community initiatives.

Inclusivity & Collaboration: A hub welcoming students, creators, and emerging talents from diverse backgrounds.


Collaboration & Acknowledgments

This project was developed in collaboration with teammates from various educational institutions:

  • Tan Bee Thiam (SP) (S. Facilitator)

  • Samuel Tan Zhi Kai (NP)

  • Nadia Binte Sulaiman (ITE)

  • Tok Oei Kee (NAFA) (Jennifer)

  • Law Zhenwen (SUTD)


Their diverse expertise and perspectives played a crucial role in shaping FabArt Café into a youth-centric creative hub.


Reflections & Takeaways

This project not only provided an opportunity to develop a real-world solution for revitalizing Somerset Belt but also reinforced the importance of collaborative innovation, strategic planning, and user-cantered design. It was a rewarding experience to work alongside passionate teammates, exchanging ideas and shaping a space that empowers young creators.


FabArt Café envisions Somerset Belt as a thriving hub for creativity, where young artists, designers, and entrepreneurs can create, connect, and contribute to a revitalized youth art scene.

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