Lee Pik Shan

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Lee Pik Shan ("LPS") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

LPS : I hold a Bachelor's degree in Industrial and Product Design (IPD) from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University's School of Design, and I have gained valuable industry experience from working for 10 years in various industrial design companies.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

LPS : In general, I was driven by a desire to solve problems and create solutions that could improve people’s lives. My reason for becoming a designer is not only because of the passion I have for creativity, innovation, and aesthetics but I also wanted to find a way to make a positive impact on society. I also tend to enjoy the challenges of finding new and better ways of doing things.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

LPS : Becoming a designer was something I really wanted to pursue. I was passionate about using my creativity and problem-solving skills to craft visually appealing and functional solutions. Pursuing this career path allowed me to express my artistic talents while making a positive impact on people's lives through design.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

LPS : As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

LPS : To become a successful designer, young designers should build a strong foundation of skills and knowledge, understand the user's needs, cultivate a passion for creativity and problem-solving, collaborate with others, embrace failure, and stay current with emerging trends and technologies. Becoming a design legend requires talent, hard work, and a commitment to continuous learning and growth.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

LPS : A good designer creates functional and aesthetically pleasing products that meet users' needs, while a great designer incorporates unique and innovative features that create a positive emotional response in users, has a deep understanding of their target audience, and can balance form and function effectively. Great designers are also adaptable and continuously learning to stay ahead of the curve.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

LPS : Personally, a good design should meet the needs, preferences, and expectations of its users while being visually pleasing and functional. It should also incorporate unique and innovative features while taking into consideration the usability, aesthetics, functionality, and durability.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

LPS : A good design must improve the user experience and enhance its functionality while having a positive impact on the environment and promote sustainability. It should also be able to provide a competitive advantage and drive sales. People should invest in good designs as it can lead to increased customer satisfaction, profitability, and push its competitive edge.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

LPS : As a designer, I want to be able to explore more on making creative and artistic projects. These types of projects would allow me to explore new ideas and experiment with different forms of expression, pushing my boundaries of what is possible within my field. By pursuing more creative and artistic work, I can continue developing my skills, expand their horizons, and find new sources of inspiration and motivation.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

LPS : Being able to make a designer product for myself for enjoyment would be a fantastic opportunity for me to explore new ideas and experiment with different design approaches and materials without feeling pressured to perfect it. It may be inspiring and fulfilling to be able to make an enjoyable product for oneself.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

LPS : I don't have a secret formula for design success, but I can say that it's a combination of ability and dedication to continual learning, a deep grasp of the user's demands, and remaining current with evolving developments and technology.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

LPS : Although I created the product on my own, I draw inspiration from Philippe Starck and his innovative and playful approach to design. Studying his work has taught me new techniques and approaches, and continues to inspire my own unique style and approach to design.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

LPS : Anything that Philippe Starck designs because of his innovative and whimsical approach to design, which blends with functionality with a unique and playful aesthetic.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

LPS : A great design, in my opinion, is typically recognized by its capacity to efficiently solve a problem and satisfy the demands of the user, as well as its visual appeal, ingenuity, and creativity. The particular elements that contribute to a great design might vary based on the environment and intended purpose of the design.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

LPS : To improve as a designer, individuals can learn and stay updated on the latest design trends, practice regularly, seek feedback, collaborate with others, develop a user-centered approach, and embrace failure as a learning opportunity. By taking these steps, designers can enhance their creativity, skills, and effectiveness in the field.

DL: If you hadn’t become a designer, what would you have done?

LPS : While I chose to pursue a career in design, I have also considered the possibility of becoming a project manager or product manager. These roles require a different skill set than design, but they can be equally rewarding and challenging.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

LPS : Design is the process of solving problems or needs through creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills, while considering the user's needs and preferences. It involves research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and refinement to create value for the user and society through innovative and effective solutions.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

LPS : As a designer, I am grateful for the support of my backers, who have helped me reach where I am today. Their investment in my work has not only provided me with the financial resources to bring my ideas to life, but also the motivation and confidence to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible within the field of design.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

LPS : Going to a university with great design courses is important for a solid foundation of knowledge, but having a passion for the field and a desire to constantly push boundaries is also essential for becoming a great designer. Combining education, passion, and creativity can lead to a distinctive style that sets designers apart in the industry.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

LPS : One of the obstacles I faced was having a creative block, which can be discouraging and frustrating. However, I was able to overcome this by taking a break and engaging in other activities, and experimenting with different design techniques and approaches.

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

LPS : I think designers should present their work clearly and concisely, using visual aids to showcase key features, and tailoring their presentation to their audience's needs and preferences. They should effectively communicate the design's value proposition and be prepared to address feedback and concerns while conveying their thought process and decision-making.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

LPS : I am always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible within my field. I am excited to continue exploring new ideas and experimenting with different materials and techniques, with the goal of creating more ergonomic and unique stationery products that will meet the needs and preferences of users.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

LPS : As a designer, my ultimate objective is to build solutions that suit the demands of the user while also being visually beautiful, inventive, and sustainable. By being sustainable, I also hope to have a beneficial influence on society and the environment.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

LPS : People expect innovative, functional, visually appealing designs that meet user needs and have a positive impact on society from an esteemed designer, along with staying up-to-date with design trends and technologies and approaching projects with creativity and dedication. They may also expect the designer to be a thought-leader in the industry, inspiring and educating others.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

LPS : Design can create a better society by addressing social and environmental problems, improving the quality of life for individuals, promoting innovation and creativity, and fostering cultural understanding and social inclusion. It has the potential to create positive social and environmental impact and contribute to the greater good of society.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

LPS : I am currently focused on designing and innovating existing products to improve their functionality, efficiency, and aesthetics. Through collaboration with stakeholders and staying up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies, I strive to create designs that meet user needs and offer an exceptional user experience.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

LPS : Although what I have put out was rewarding, none of these have given me the most satisfaction yet. I am still exploring the opportunities that I have to create designs that not only look good but also have a positive impact on people's lives.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

LPS : Some individuals in the design industry may wish to see greater emphasis on sustainability, diversity, and inclusivity, more collaboration and interdisciplinary approaches to design, and greater investment in emerging technologies and digital tools. The goal is to create a more effective and sustainable design industry that can address the challenges and opportunities of the future.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

LPS : I can say that the design field is likely to continue to evolve and adapt to changing needs and technologies. This may include greater emphasis on digital and interactive design, increased focus on user-centered design, and continued integration of sustainability and social responsibility into design practices.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

LPS : It usually takes around a year to finalize the design of the product without the initial drafting and creation.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

LPS : As a designer, I find inspiration in the everyday problems and challenges that people face in their lives. Whether it's the need for more efficient storage solutions, more comfortable and ergonomic seating, or better ways to organize and manage workspaces, I am always looking for ways to incorporate these issues into my design work.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

LPS : I usually go by problem solving and human centric design.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

LPS : I think design and trends can influence each other, but can also operate independently. The relationship between them is complex, with each influencing the other in different ways and under different circumstances.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

LPS : Technology plays a crucial role in the design process, facilitating ideation, prototyping, testing, and refinement, enhancing product functionality and sustainability, and promoting innovation. It is important to use technology responsibly and ethically and to consider its impact on society and the environment.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

LPS : My design software and equipment vary depending on the project's requirements, but I typically use industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma for digital designs and 3D modeling software like SolidWorks and Autodesk Fusion 360. I also use a range of equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and traditional design tools like sketchbooks and pencils for physical prototyping and ideation.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

LPS : Color, materials, and ambient factors impact the user's emotional and sensory experience in design. By carefully considering these elements, designers can create products and spaces that are aesthetically pleasing, functional, and emotionally resonant with the user.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

LPS : I enjoy being asked why I designed a particular product because it gives me the opportunity to share the thought process and decision-making that went into its development. It allows me to provide insights into the design considerations, challenges, and solutions that went into creating the product, and to share my passion for design and problem-solving with others.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

LPS : Encountering a great design or product inspires me with creativity, innovation, and attention to detail. It motivates me to push the boundaries of what is possible and strive for excellence in my own work.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

LPS : An ideal design partner would share similar values, has complementary skills, and is open to collaboration and communication. I see co-design as a valuable approach to creating designs that meet the needs of all parties involved, foster innovation and inclusivity, and help gain a deeper understanding of the problem being solved.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

LPS : I am constantly thinking about the end-user and how they will interact with my designs. The people who use my products are the ones who most influence my design decisions, as I am always looking for ways to create products that are intuitive, user-friendly, and address their unique needs and preferences.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

LPS : Books about Elon Musk have been a great source of inspiration for me as a designer, as they showcase his unique and broad perspective on problem-solving and creating efficient and effective products. Musk's dedication to innovation and his relentless pursuit of excellence have been a driving force in his success, and his approach to design and engineering has revolutionized industries. By reading about Musk's work and philosophy, I have been motivated to think bigger, push the boundaries of what is possible, and to create designs that have a lasting impact on the world.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

LPS : While I don’t consider myself as a master designer yet, I was able to develop my skills and gain valuable insights into the design process and manufacturing through my education and practical experience. This has allowed me to refine my skills and deepen my understanding of what it takes to create innovative and practical designs.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

LPS : I'd like to spend a day with either Elon Musk or Philippe Starck.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

LPS : We are not famous perse, but we feel truly humbled to have received recognition in our work that we have put in. We have achieved so much because of the passion we have in designing and creating our brand.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

LPS : When it comes to my personal preferences, I tend to gravitate towards a classic color palette of black and white. As for my favorite place, this can vary depending on my mood and what I am looking for. While I enjoy all seasons, I must admit that summer is not my favorite, as I tend to find the heat and humidity to be uncomfortable. Finally, I have a particular affinity for my phone, and I have always been drawn to the design and functionality of Apple products.

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

LPS : I have had my fair share of challenges and setbacks, and one experience that I find amusing in hindsight is my attempt to find a manufacturer and navigating Kickstarter, which ultimately failed several times. While I can now look back on this experience with humor, at the time it was a frustrating and demotivating setback that taught me the importance of perseverance and resilience in the face of obstacles.

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

LPS : Seeing my designs come to life and positively impact people's lives is incredibly rewarding and serves as a great source of motivation for me as a designer. Hearing positive feedback from users and knowing that my work has made a difference is also very fulfilling.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

LPS : Becoming a designer was not an obvious path for me, as I initially envisioned myself pursuing a career as an artist. However, as I began to explore different creative fields and learn about the diverse opportunities within design, I found myself drawn to the problem-solving and practical applications of design work.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

LPS : In my opinion, it is likely that technological advancements will continue to shape and transform society, and we may see significant developments in areas such as artificial intelligence, biotechnology, and space exploration in the coming centuries.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

LPS : I am grateful for the support of those who have backed the Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool and will continue to create innovative designs that meet user needs and make a positive impact on society, so stay tuned for updates!