FabArt Café: Revitalizing Somerset Belt’s Youth Art Scene
- Jentok
- Mar 17
- 2 min read
Updated: Apr 3


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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