INTERVIEW WITH DINO LIM CREATIVE DIRECTOR UMAH LIVING
Congratulations on the opening of the flagship store of Umah Living! Could you share with us what Umah Living has to offer?
Thank you! Umah Living is a home of thoughtfully crafted fragrances and lifestyle products inspired by the beauty and essence of Bali. We offer a curated collection of scented candles, reed diffusers, room and linen sprays, car diffusers, and now incense sticks, each designed to bring a sense of calm, comfort, and sensory storytelling into your everyday space. Beyond products, we also offer workshops in candle making, perfumery, and scented home products, creating experiences that connect people with scent, creativity, and mindful living.
How would you describe your signature design style and products?
Our signature style is serene, soulful, and rooted in nature. We combine minimalistic, elegant designs with high-quality scents that evoke both memory and emotion. Each product reflects a careful balance of aesthetics and sensory experience. Beautiful to display, yet crafted to transform the atmosphere of a home.
Aside from the new store, is there anything else you are currently working on?
Absolutely. We’re continuously expanding our product range, including our upcoming incense line. We’re also developing more immersive workshop experiences that blend scent with creativity. Additionally, we are exploring our upcoming festive hampers options.
You had a great career in your previous role. What motivated you to shift into this industry and launch your own brand?
I’ve always been passionate about scent, design, and creating meaningful experiences. While my previous career taught me the value of strategy and execution, I wanted to build something that reflects my personal vision and values—connecting people to Bali’s natural beauty through sensory storytelling. Launching Umah Living allowed me to combine creativity, sustainability, and community impact in one venture.
Have there been any mentors in your career so far, and how have they influenced you?
Yes, I’ve been fortunate to have mentors who taught me resilience, the importance of listening, and the value of thinking both creatively and strategically. They encouraged me to trust my instincts while grounding decisions in research and empathy—lessons that have been invaluable in shaping Umah Living’s philosophy and approach.
Do you have any personal favorites from your collection?
It’s hard to choose just one, but our Serene Ubud room spray holds a special place for me. Its fresh, airy notes instantly transport me to my times in Ubud before I started Umah, and it perfectly embodies the feeling I hope every Umah product delivers—peace, clarity, and a little bit of magic in daily life.
How do you maintain a balance between work and life?
Balance is an ongoing practice. I make it a priority to disconnect from work at certain times, whether that’s spending time in padel court, doing creative activities, or simply enjoying moments with family and friends. At Umah, I also cultivate a team culture that values well-being and flexibility, because I believe balance is essential not just for me but for the people who help bring the brand to life.