Singaporean entrepreneur Mabel Lim has transformed her passion for arts and crafts into a thriving luxury property business in Perth, Australia. Her company, Manaa Living, combines exquisite craftsmanship with premium short-stay accommodations, creating unique experiences for discerning travelers.
After relocating from Singapore nearly two decades ago, Mabel brought with her not just business acumen from 34 years in retail, but also a deep appreciation for handmade artistry and attention to detail. This unique blend of skills has become the foundation of Manaa Living's success in Perth's competitive luxury rental market.
The Artisanal Approach to Luxury Living
Unlike conventional property management companies, Manaa Living under Mabel's leadership focuses on creating spaces that feel both luxurious and authentically personal. Each property features carefully curated artisanal elements, from handcrafted furniture to locally sourced artwork, reflecting Mabel's belief that true luxury lies in the details.
"My background in arts and crafts taught me the value of craftsmanship and personal touch," Mabel explains in the CNALuxury feature. "When guests stay at our properties, we want them to feel like they're experiencing something special and unique - not just another generic luxury accommodation."
Bridging Singaporean Precision with Australian Creativity
The article highlights how Mabel's Singaporean heritage influences her business approach, bringing meticulous planning and efficiency to operations while embracing the creative freedom and natural beauty that Australia offers. This unique combination has positioned Manaa Living as a standout player in Perth's property scene.
Forbes Residences, Manaa's flagship development in partnership with renowned architects WOHA, exemplifies this philosophy. The property seamlessly blends sophisticated design with handcrafted elements, offering breathtaking river views alongside bespoke interior details that reflect Mabel's artistic vision.
Sustainable Craftsmanship
CNALuxury particularly noted Mabel's commitment to sustainability through her support of local artisans and use of environmentally friendly materials. Many pieces in Manaa properties are created by Western Australian craftspeople, supporting the local economy while reducing the carbon footprint associated with mass-produced furnishings.
"It's about creating beautiful spaces that also tell a story and support our community," Mabel shares in the interview. "Every handmade piece in our properties has its own history and adds to the unique character of the space."
"Mabel Lim's journey from Singaporean retail to Perth property excellence demonstrates how passion for craftsmanship can transform an industry. Manaa Living isn't just managing properties - they're curating experiences."
— CNALuxury Editors
The feature concludes by highlighting Manaa Living's impressive growth trajectory, with properties consistently achieving 4/5-star ratings on platforms like Tripadvisor and generating strong returns for investors. Mabel's unique approach has proven that in the world of luxury accommodations, artistry and business acumen can create extraordinary success.