Some would say that the swimming pool is very much our second home and we have no qualms about that, considering that modern furnishing trends have made the outdoors more pleasurable. The same goes for outdoor furniture expert, ISOFU, and sales manager (central & nothern region) Ms. Jeyalatha Ganeson is adamant that more sunny tans won’t kill.
How did ISOFU begin?
The name “ISOFU” was initially derived from the words “international style of outdoor furniture” and we’d added the ‘U’ at the end as “sofu” or “isofu” is defined as elephant in the Swahili language. It also refers to a place where elephants reside in water and land… The perfect description for our business!
Outdoor furniture in itself is a very vast topic, so what are the important bits that consumers need to know?
These days, customers are very much in the know of what is out there in the market, plus Malaysians are also very sophisticated now, so they’re more meticulous when it comes to design as well as the details of the production. This is mainly because they want to know if the furniture pieces they’re about to buy can brave through our weather conditions. Another thing is warranty, and due to the confidence in our products’ resistance, our clients get the warranty they need. Customers are also particular about after-sales service and this plays a very important part in the company’s branding. Lastly, a good buy will always be the highlight of their day.
What would you say is ISOFU’s stand in the industry?
With the range of quality products we have, we see ourselves being the best in the business and satisfying the client’s needs, be it in terms of aesthetic and furniture solutions, or even consultation services. We also aim to be the first name that comes to mind whenever – or wherever – outdoor furnishing solutions are concerned.
Do you think outdoor furniture is often a neglected aspect of decorating?
It was in the past as the locals preferred their belongings to be inside and not left outside, hence a product of lesser value would always be picked to be placed outdoors. As I mentioned earlier, the industry has evolved and become way more sophisticated now, so much so that we can see mindsets being changed. The way that developers are designing and building houses now have a good balance of the indoors as well as our beautiful sunny weather, naturally making outdoor spaces more prominent within one’s property. As such, families are encouraged to spend more time outside with their family and friends, which ultimately gives them a good reason not to neglect this important area of the house as well as the willingness to pay for good quality furnishings.
What can consumers expect from your products?
Thanks to the many collections we have at the showroom by award-winning international designers, customers will have the privilege of choice and customer service once they step in. In fact, the colour choices and finishings that we have for our products are just the tip of the iceberg.
Which outdoor furniture trend do you estimate to be a hit in 2018?
We believe daybeds would be the talk of town next year as they are becoming increasingly popular since it’s proven to be so relaxing to lie in in the outdoors. If you add the myriad of colours into the mix, the ambience in outdoor areas is going to be bright and attractive.
Share with us the secret to outdoor furniture maintenance.
The magical thing about this is maintenance has become so minimal today, thanks to technology and durable materials, so much so that outdoor furniture can now withstand our temperamental local weather.
Jeyalatha Ganeson, Sales manager at ISOFU
