Yan Yan

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Yan Yan ("YY") 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?

YY : I began my formal education in design at the California College of the Arts, where I pursued a Master of Fine Arts (MFA) in Design. This comprehensive program immersed me in a blend of traditional and modern design principles, covering areas such as visual communication, user experience, and industrial design. The diverse curriculum and exposure to a wide range of design theories and applications were crucial in shaping my approach to design, emphasizing the importance of creating work that is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally relevant and human-centered. Studying in California, a hub of innovation and cultural diversity, further broadened my perspective, inspiring me to incorporate global and cultural nuances into my designs. This education laid a strong foundation for my career as an interdisciplinary designer, equipping me with the skills to explore and push the boundaries between different design disciplines while continuously evolving my techniques to stay aligned with the latest trends and technologies in the field.

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

YY : I became a designer driven by a passion for creating meaningful interactions between people and the world around them. Design is not just about crafting visually appealing objects; it's about problem-solving, innovation, and improving everyday experiences. The ability to influence how people interact with their environments and with each other is profoundly motivating. Whether it's shaping the way someone feels when they enter a room, enhancing the usability of a product, or conveying a powerful societal message through visual media, design allows me to contribute to society in a tangible and impactful way. This blend of creative expression and practical application was what drew me to become a designer. It offers a unique opportunity to blend artistry with utility, making everyday interactions more enjoyable and efficient. Ultimately, the constant challenge and the endless possibilities for innovation keep me engaged and passionate about my career in design.

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

YY : I was driven by a deep passion for creativity and a desire to make a meaningful impact through my work. From a young age, I was fascinated by the power of arts and the ability of design to solve problems and enhance everyday experiences. This fascination grew as I explored different aspects of art and design, solidifying my decision to pursue a career where I could merge creativity with practicality. The field of design appealed to me because it offered a unique opportunity to continuously challenge myself, stay engaged with evolving technologies and trends, and make a tangible difference in people's lives through thoughtful and innovative creations. No external force pushed me into this field; it was a natural alignment of my interests and skills that guided me to this fulfilling career path.

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

YY : As a product designer, my current work primarily focuses on enhancing user experiences, ensuring that every interaction is intuitive, enjoyable, and efficient. This involves a meticulous process of understanding user needs, iterating designs based on feedback, and constantly refining to meet practical usability standards. Alongside my role in product design, I am passionate about my explorations as an interdisciplinary designer, where I blend the realms of design and art to address contemporary social behaviors. I am particularly interested in themes like urban living and the dynamics within female communities. These areas allow me to delve into complex social narratives, creating designs that not only serve functional purposes but also provoke thought and discussion. I wish to design more projects that bridge the gap between functionality and critical social commentary, using my work to spark meaningful conversations and bring about social awareness and change.

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

YY : For young designers aspiring to make a significant impact in the field, my advice centers on three key areas: continuous learning, embracing diverse experiences, and cultivating a unique voice. Firstly, commit to lifelong learning; the design landscape is ever-evolving, and staying abreast of new tools, technologies, and theories is crucial. Engage in workshops, courses, and industry conferences to expand your skill set and understanding. Secondly, embrace a broad range of experiences—work on different types of projects, collaborate with professionals from various disciplines, and seek opportunities to design across different media. This diversity will enrich your creative outlook and enhance your versatility. Lastly, develop a unique voice and perspective. This involves deep introspection about what you stand for as a designer and how you can contribute uniquely to societal conversations through your work. Authenticity and a strong personal brand will set you apart in a competitive industry and help you resonate more deeply with your audience.

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

YY : The distinction between a good designer and a great designer hinges significantly on their depth of empathy, breadth of curiosity, and the rigor of their critical thinking. A good designer efficiently solves problems, crafting solutions that address current challenges and producing work that is both functional and visually appealing. However, a great designer delves deeper, employing critical thinking to not only fix immediate issues but to foresee potential future challenges. They use design as a powerful tool to influence user behavior, aiming to shift mindsets and potentially lead industry trends. This forward-thinking approach, combined with a profound understanding of user needs and a relentless curiosity about new possibilities, enables great designers to transform good solutions into groundbreaking innovations that resonate deeply and widely, setting new standards within the industry.

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

YY : A truly good design excels in functionality, aesthetics, and user engagement, balancing these elements seamlessly. When evaluating a design, I focus on its usability—how well it serves its intended function and simplifies the user’s tasks. Aesthetically, it should be pleasing, employing a coherent visual strategy that complements its functionality. User-centricity is critical; the design must address real user needs and enhance their experience, ideally confirmed through user testing. Innovation is another key criterion, looking at whether the design introduces new solutions or clever improvements that push the field forward. Sustainability has also become essential, assessing how a design minimizes its environmental impact. Lastly, a successful design creates an emotional connection, making it memorable and meaningful to its users. These criteria help ensure that a design isn’t just good but also impactful and sustainable in the long run.

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

YY : Good design improves the usability of products, making daily tasks easier and more intuitive, which enhances overall user experience and satisfaction. This increase in user engagement can lead to higher customer retention and loyalty. Additionally, good design often leads to increased efficiency in processes, reducing time and cost while maximizing output, which is vital for businesses aiming to maintain a competitive edge. In the broader societal context, good design can enhance the quality of life by making spaces safer, more accessible, and more enjoyable. Investing in good design is not just about improving aesthetics but about making smart, strategic decisions that have a far-reaching positive impact.

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

YY : If given the opportunity and time, I would focus on expanding the reach and impact of my podcast, "SheSaying," by designing a comprehensive multimedia project that centers around the themes discussed in the episodes. This project would involve curating an exhibition that brings the stories of women featured in the podcast to life through various forms of art and interactive installations. The exhibition would travel to different cities, offering local and global audiences the chance to engage deeply with the narratives of women from diverse backgrounds. In addition to the physical exhibition, I would design a complementary interactive website and mobile app. These digital platforms would feature extended content, behind-the-scenes insights, and community-driven features like forums for discussions and workshops. This project would not only amplify the voices of the women on the podcast but also foster a larger dialogue about gender, culture, and society, making a lasting impact on audiences worldwide.

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

YY : A jewelry series that encapsulates my childhood memories with my parents and my transformative experience of moving to a big city. This series would meld symbolic elements from my early life in a small town with the dynamic, often chaotic impressions of urban living. Each piece of jewelry would represent a specific memory or feeling. This collection would not only be deeply personal but also resonate with anyone who has experienced significant life transitions, capturing the essence of change and the blend of past and present in tangible, wearable art.

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

YY : There is no secret recipe to my success in design; what I rely on is unwavering passion and a rigorous commitment to iteration. In the design world, perfection is an evolving target, and there is rarely, if ever, a perfect design on the first try. Every successful project undergoes multiple rounds of refinement, with some even requiring a complete overhaul from the initial concept. This iterative process is critical—it allows for the exploration of different ideas, the testing of various solutions, and the continual improvement of the design based on feedback and testing. My approach emphasizes the importance of being open to change and adaptability, which are essential for transforming good ideas into great solutions. It’s this dedication to evolving a project, driven by a passion for excellence and an understanding of the user’s needs, that truly defines my work in design.

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

YY : Don Norman, Masayuki Kurokawa, and Le Corbusier are three influential figures in design, each contributing uniquely to the field. Don Norman, a pioneer in the field of user experience design, emphasizes the importance of user-centered design principles. His work and writings, particularly "The Design of Everyday Things," advocate for making products understandable and usable, teaching designers the critical role of cognitive science in design. Masayuki Kurokawa, a renowned Japanese architect and designer, is celebrated for his philosophy of "microscopic design," which considers every small detail in the context of a whole space, promoting harmony and functional beauty in both product design and architecture. Le Corbusier, a pioneer of modern architecture, introduced the concept of buildings as "machines for living," revolutionizing urban planning and the use of space. His emphasis on simplicity, geometric forms, and functionality has profoundly influenced contemporary architecture and design. These masters inspire me through their innovative approaches and philosophies, encouraging a thoughtful, user-focused, and detail-oriented approach in my own work.

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

YY : Kenya Hara’s design work for MUJI is among my favorite designs by other designers, mainly due to its embodiment of simplicity and the profound philosophy behind each product. Hara’s approach with MUJI centers on the concept of "emptiness," designing products that eschew unnecessary features and embrace minimalism, allowing the items to blend seamlessly into various lifestyle and cultural contexts. This design philosophy not only promotes functionality and aesthetics but also encourages consumers to find beauty in simplicity and utility. What I admire most about Hara’s work for MUJI is the way he uses design as a medium to communicate deeper values such as sustainability, modesty, and the importance of well-being. His designs are not just products; they are part of a lifestyle choice that advocates for less consumption and more thoughtful living. This resonance with ethical and philosophical dimensions makes his designs for MUJI profoundly impactful and inspiring, aligning with my own design values that prioritize meaningful and responsible design.

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

YY : "Anonymousociety" is one of my greatest design achievements because it uniquely merges the realms of art and design to delve into themes of identity and urban living. The project’s strength lies in its ability to create an engaging narrative around a fictional secret society that offers its members a break from the constant exposure and scrutiny of urban life. This concept is brought to life through various media including a website, physical installations, and printed materials that not only enhance the narrative’s depth but also engage the audience interactively. The design excels in its seamless integration of storytelling with visual and interactive elements, encouraging viewers to contemplate their own roles and experiences within their urban environments. The success of "Anonymousociety" hinges on its innovative approach to using design as a tool to explore and comment on contemporary social behaviors, making it a standout project in my portfolio.

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

YY : To improve as designers, focusing on continual learning, practical experience, and a deep understanding of user needs is essential. Throughout my career, I've prioritized staying updated with the latest design trends and technologies, regularly attending workshops, seminars, and conferences to refine my skills and gain new insights. I've also embraced diverse project experiences across different sectors, which has broadened my perspective and enhanced my problem-solving capabilities. Practicing empathy is crucial; understanding the user’s perspective deeply and designing with their needs in mind leads to more effective and meaningful products. Additionally, I actively seek feedback from peers and users, as it is vital to understand different viewpoints and improve my work. This combination of ongoing education, varied experiences, empathy, and openness to critique has been instrumental in my development, helping me innovate and respond effectively to design challenges effectively.

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

YY : If I hadn't pursued a career in design, I would have likely become a psychologist, driven by my deep interest in human experiences and behaviors. My fascination with understanding how people think, feel, and interact within various environments aligns closely with the principles of psychology. This field would have allowed me to explore the cognitive and emotional aspects of human behavior in depth, providing insights into why people behave the way they do in different situations. Such knowledge is crucial for developing effective interventions and support systems that enhance individuals' well-being and improve interpersonal relationships. My passion for delving into the intricacies of the human mind and its impact on behavior would have found a different, yet profoundly impactful, outlet in psychology, focusing on helping individuals navigate their emotional and cognitive landscapes to lead more fulfilling lives.

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

YY : Design, for me, is a powerful tool for exploring and revealing truths about both the external world and our internal universes. It serves as a bridge that connects tangible reality with abstract ideas, allowing us to investigate and express complex social, cultural, and personal dynamics. Through design, we can uncover and articulate deeper insights about human behavior, societal trends, and emotional experiences. This exploration often leads to revealing hidden connections and patterns that shape our understanding of the world. By creating interfaces, environments, and objects that people interact with, design influences perception and can alter behavior, offering new perspectives and enhancing our understanding of ourselves and the societies we inhabit. In essence, design not only reflects our current reality but also challenges and expands it, pushing us to consider not just what is, but what could be, thereby fostering a deeper connection with the world around us and the hidden landscapes within ourselves.

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

YY : Reaching the heights I have in my career has been significantly influenced by my educational experiences and the colleagues I've worked with along the way. Studying at the California College of the Arts (CCA) was pivotal; the institution not only provided me with a robust foundation in design principles and practices but also exposed me to a diverse array of creative thoughts and influences. The mentors and professors there challenged and pushed me to explore the boundaries of my creativity and technical skills. Alongside my education, my co-workers have played a crucial role in my professional journey. They have been my collaborators, sounding boards, and often, sources of inspiration. These individuals, from various backgrounds and specialties, have supported me through challenging projects, offering fresh perspectives and invaluable feedback that helped refine my designs. This supportive network of educators and peers has been fundamental in helping me evolve into the designer I am today, constantly driving me towards innovation and excellence in my field.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

YY : What has fundamentally propelled me towards becoming a great designer is the recognition that there is no end to learning and improving in this field. Embracing a mindset of continuous growth and curiosity has been crucial. Throughout my career, I've committed to constantly updating my knowledge and skills, whether through formal education, workshops, or staying abreast of emerging technologies and trends. This ongoing education helps me stay relevant and innovative. Additionally, I’ve learned to critically analyze my work and the design landscape, always questioning how design can better serve society and enhance everyday experiences. I also place a strong emphasis on feedback—learning from peers, mentors, and even critiques from clients and users. Each project is an opportunity to learn something new, refine my process, and push the boundaries of what I previously thought possible. This relentless pursuit of knowledge and excellence has not only shaped my career but also defined it, ensuring that my work remains impactful and forward-thinking.

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

YY : Finding my unique voice as a designer and truly believing in its value was a pivotal journey in my career. Early on, it involved a lot of experimentation, self-reflection, and feedback to hone a style that not only satisfied my creative expression but also resonated with audiences and clients. Recognizing that my perspective could contribute meaningfully to discussions around design and society helped solidify my confidence in my work. This process taught me the importance of authenticity in design, which is now a core aspect of my professional identity. Balancing problem-solving with personal art expression continues to be a dynamic challenge. Each project demands practical solutions that meet specific needs, yet I strive to infuse personal artistic elements that elevate the work beyond mere functionality. This ongoing effort to blend utility with artistry involves constant learning and adaptation. It is about finding harmony between satisfying client requirements and staying true to my artistic vision, ensuring that my work not only solves problems but also pushes creative boundaries. This balance is crucial for keeping my work innovative and personally fulfilling.

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

YY : Designers should present their work in a clear, concise, and visually engaging manner that highlights both the creative process and the final outcomes. A good presentation should start with a brief overview of the project's objectives, followed by a deep dive into the design process, illustrating how initial concepts evolved through iterations based on user feedback and testing. Visual aids like sketches, wireframes, and prototypes are crucial as they help convey the progression of ideas. It's also important to include data or feedback that underscores the design’s effectiveness in solving the intended problems. Designers should articulate the unique value of their work, explaining how their solutions stand out in the market or community. Ultimately, a successful presentation connects the dots between the designer's approach, the user's needs, and the project’s impact, leaving the audience with a clear understanding of the work’s significance and innovation.

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

YY : My next major design project is an ambitious expansion of "SheSaying," which currently exists as a podcast that amplifies women's voices by sharing their diverse stories. Looking ahead, I plan to evolve this platform into a broader, more interactive experience. Expect to see "SheSaying" transform into an inclusive digital and physical space that extends beyond audio stories. This will include an interactive website that features extended content, resources, and community engagement tools, aimed at fostering deeper connections among listeners and participants. Additionally, I am working on curating a series of exhibitions that will bring the narratives from the podcast into vivid visual displays, offering an immersive experience that highlights the strength and diversity of women’s experiences across cultures. These exhibitions will travel to various locations to reach a wider audience, making the powerful stories of "SheSaying" accessible to more people and further promoting dialogue and understanding on a global scale.

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

YY : My ultimate goal as a designer is to create impactful and meaningful work that not only addresses immediate design challenges but also fosters positive social change. I aim to continue pushing the boundaries of what design can achieve by integrating art, technology, and science in innovative ways that enhance people’s lives. Specifically, I aspire to develop projects that promote inclusivity, encourage sustainable practices, and enhance community engagement. Through my work, I hope to inspire others to see design not just as a tool for aesthetic enhancement but as a powerful catalyst for building a better, more thoughtful world. Ultimately, I want to leave a legacy that proves design’s potential to solve complex problems and transform societies, making it an indispensable element of progress and human development.

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

YY : From an esteemed designer like myself, people expect a consistent voice that resonates through all projects, coupled with the ability to continuously offer new perspectives that challenge and expand the current design landscape. This consistent voice provides a reliable framework and philosophy that audiences can trust, while the introduction of new perspectives ensures that my work remains at the cutting edge, pushing boundaries and provoking thought.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

YY : Design plays a crucial role in creating a better society by enhancing the functionality and aesthetics of our environments, making daily interactions more enjoyable and efficient. It bridges gaps between different communities by making products and services more accessible and inclusive, ensuring that everyone, regardless of their abilities or backgrounds, can benefit from innovations. Moreover, design influences social behavior and cultural shifts by presenting new ways of interacting with our surroundings and each other. It can promote public health, safety, and welfare by improving medical devices, transportation systems, and public spaces. Through thoughtful urban planning and efficient public services, design enhances community engagement and connectivity. Ultimately, design has the transformative power to not only solve practical problems but also to enhance the quality of life and foster a more harmonious society.

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

YY : Currently, the "SheSaying" podcast is at an exciting juncture where it focuses on capturing and sharing the fascinating voices and stories of diverse women. Each episode is a deep dive into the life experiences, challenges, and triumphs of women from various backgrounds and cultures, providing listeners with a broad spectrum of perspectives. What makes this process so enriching and captivating for me is the opportunity to engage directly with these women, conducting interviews that are not only informative but also deeply moving and inspiring. Hearing their stories firsthand allows us to preserve and highlight the nuances of each narrative, ensuring that the authenticity and emotional impact are conveyed to our audience. The richness of this content is what drives the podcast's success and fuels its expansion into new formats and experiences.

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

YY : One of the design projects that gave me the most satisfaction was "The Last Mission," a physical game I designed during my time at the California College of the Arts (CCA). This project was particularly rewarding because it was more than just a game; it was a community-building exercise aimed at enhancing the relationships between campus security personnel, students, and other staff members through interactive play. Set against the thrilling backdrop of a zombie apocalypse, the game challenged players to navigate through zombie-infested areas to retrieve a critical prop—a battery—that would help them survive. The excitement and teamwork involved in the game not only brought participants closer together but also broke down the usual formal barriers between them, fostering a sense of camaraderie and mutual respect. The project's success in creating a fun, engaging, and meaningful experience for the CCA community was immensely gratifying, underscoring the power of thoughtful design in transforming everyday interactions and strengthening community bonds.

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

YY : In the coming years, I hope to see the design industry embrace greater inclusivity and accessibility, moving beyond compliance to genuinely address the diverse needs of all users, including those with disabilities. There should be a stronger focus on ethical design practices, emphasizing user privacy, data security, and the broader ethical implications of design decisions, especially in technology and product development. I also advocate for enhanced interdisciplinary collaboration, encouraging designers, engineers, and business professionals to integrate their expertise from the outset of projects, fostering innovation and more comprehensive solutions. Additionally, the industry should intensify its commitment to sustainability by using eco-friendly materials, reducing waste, and designing for product longevity. These shifts would not only advance the field of design but also set a precedent for responsible practices that could influence global production and consumption patterns.

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

YY : The design field is rapidly heading towards greater integration of artificial intelligence (AI) and voice design, fundamentally changing how we approach and implement design solutions. AI is set to enhance the creative process by automating routine tasks and analyzing user data to deliver highly personalized experiences, allowing designers to focus on more complex and innovative aspects of design. Concurrently, voice design is becoming increasingly pivotal as voice-controlled interfaces proliferate, requiring designers to craft interactions that feel natural and intuitive across different languages and cultural contexts. This shift towards AI and voice technology not only streamlines the design process but also deepens the potential for interactive, user-friendly products. As these technologies evolve, they will dramatically influence user experience, pushing designers to merge technical proficiency with a nuanced understanding of human behavior and needs, thus driving the industry towards more sophisticated, adaptable, and human-centered solutions.

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

YY : The duration it takes to finalize a design project can vary widely, largely depending on the specific constraints and requirements of each project. It can range from as little as two weeks for smaller, more straightforward tasks to as long as a year for more complex, in-depth projects. Factors such as the scope of the project, client requirements, the complexity of the design, the number of stakeholders involved, and the need for iterations based on feedback all play crucial roles in determining the timeline. Shorter projects often require rapid ideation and execution, while longer projects might involve extensive research, multiple rounds of testing, and detailed refinement to ensure that every aspect of the design meets the desired standards of functionality and aesthetic appeal. Therefore, each project is unique, and the time to finalize depends greatly on its specific demands and the iterative process required to achieve the best possible outcome.

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

YY : When I begin a new design project, the approach varies significantly depending on whether it's a client-based project or a personal initiative. For client-based projects, my initial step is to thoroughly understand the client's objectives and the specific needs of their target audience. This involves detailed discussions with the client and extensive research to grasp the market environment and user behaviors. This foundational understanding is crucial to guide the design process effectively. On the other hand, if it's a personal project, I start by capturing my own thoughts and inspirations. This often involves sketching out initial ideas and exploring various creative directions that align with my personal vision or a particular message I want to convey. Whether for a client or my own venture, the process always involves a deep dive into the purpose and goals of the project, ensuring that every design decision is intentional and informed.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

YY : Designers actually can change the world for the better by making the complicated simple and finding beauty in truth.

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

YY : I believe that design and trends engage in a dynamic, spiraling relationship where they continuously influence and propel each other forward. This interplay creates a symbiotic cycle where innovative designs often set new trends, and emerging trends inspire fresh design ideas. In the design world, groundbreaking projects can redefine aesthetic norms and user expectations, effectively establishing new trends that ripple through the industry. Conversely, as societal preferences evolve and new trends emerge, designers draw inspiration from these shifts to create designs that resonate with contemporary tastes and needs. This mutual influence ensures that both design and trends are always moving forward, evolving in response to each other’s cues. This perspective acknowledges the complex and intertwined relationship between cultural shifts and creative innovation, highlighting the importance of staying attuned to both in order to produce relevant and impactful design work.

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

YY : Technology plays a pivotal role in my design process, both as a tool and a source of inspiration. It equips me with advanced software and tools that enhance the precision and efficiency of my work, enabling complex simulations, detailed renderings, and rapid iterations. This not only accelerates the creative process but also expands the scope of possible design solutions.

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

YY : Mostly Adobe suite and Figma.

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

YY : In design, the choice of color, materials, and ambient elements plays a crucial role in shaping the user's experience and the overall effectiveness of a product or space. Color can influence mood, communicate information, and create visual coherence; it's essential for setting the tone and evoking the intended emotional response. Materials contribute not only to the functionality and durability of a design but also to its sensory qualities and environmental impact, affecting how a product feels in the user's hands or how a space feels to inhabit. Ambient factors, such as lighting and acoustics, further define the atmosphere and usability of environments, enhancing or diminishing the user's comfort and engagement depending on how well they are controlled. Together, these elements work synergistically to create a holistic experience that can profoundly affect user satisfaction and interaction, underscoring their importance in the design process to ensure that the final product or space is both appealing and functional.

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

YY : I hope that my designs are intuitive enough that they largely speak for themselves, clearly conveying their purpose and functionality through their form and user experience. However, when people are curious and seek deeper insights, I wish they would ask about the decision-making process behind the designs. I would like them to inquire about how I approach various design challenges, the considerations involved in choosing specific materials, colors, and forms, and how these elements are meant to interact with the users. Explaining the rationale behind each design decision—from the initial concept through iterations to the final outcome—offers a glimpse into the complexity and thoughtfulness of the design process. This discussion not only educates the audience about the intricacies of design but also highlights the deliberate choices made to ensure the product or space meets its intended goals while enhancing user interaction.

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

YY : When I encounter a new great design or product, my first instinct is to capture it in my inspiration inventory, a curated collection of innovative ideas and exceptional designs that I reference for motivation and creativity. I'm compelled to delve deep into the design process behind the product, eager to understand the steps, decisions, and iterations that led to such an elegant solution. This learning process involves analyzing the designer's approach, the challenges they faced, and how they navigated through various options to arrive at the final design. Understanding these elements not only broadens my perspective but also enriches my own design practice, providing valuable insights into problem-solving and creative thinking. This exploration helps me appreciate the nuances of design further and inspires me to integrate similar levels of thoughtfulness and innovation into my own projects.

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

YY : My ideal design partner is someone who values open communication and collaboration, essential qualities that I've found lead to successful co-design projects. A prime example was my experience with the "Nemoo" project, where collaboration among designers was central to our success. In this project, each team member brought unique skills and perspectives, but it was our commitment to transparent and frequent communication that ensured our ideas and solutions were effectively integrated and aligned with our collective vision. I firmly believe in the power of co-design because it leverages diverse expertise to create more innovative and comprehensive solutions than any single designer might achieve alone. The ideal partner is not just skilled but also open-minded and communicative, willing to share ideas and feedback constructively. This collaborative approach not only enhances the design process but also enriches the final product, making co-design a highly valuable method in my professional toolkit.

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

YY : Rather than a single individual, it's the consistent interactions with my designer friends that have had the most significant influence on my design work. Regular conversations and brainstorming sessions with them provide me with a wealth of insights, inspiration, and valuable reflections. These discussions allow me to see different perspectives, challenge my assumptions, and refine my ideas. The diverse backgrounds and expertise of my friends contribute to a richer understanding of design possibilities and solutions. This continuous exchange of ideas not only keeps me inspired but also pushes me to improve and innovate in my own work. Their constructive feedback and shared experiences are invaluable, fostering a collaborative environment that profoundly shapes and enhances my design approach.

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

YY : Among the many books that have influenced my design approach, Don Norman's "The Design of Everyday Things" stands out as particularly impactful. I first encountered this book on my very first day in design school, and it profoundly shaped my understanding of user-centered design. Norman's insights into the importance of usability and intuitive design principles resonated deeply with me, emphasizing that good design is not just about aesthetics but also about how well a product functions and meets the needs of its users. This book instilled in me a keen awareness of the user's experience and the critical role that design plays in facilitating seamless, enjoyable interactions with everyday objects. It laid the foundation for my design philosophy, guiding me to always consider the end user's perspective and to strive for designs that are both beautiful and effortlessly functional.

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

YY : Primarily through hands-on experience with diverse design projects and constructive critique from my peers. Each project I undertook provided unique challenges and learning opportunities, allowing me to refine my techniques and expand my creative thinking. Collaborating with other designers exposed me to different approaches and ideas, which significantly enriched my perspective. Peer critique sessions were particularly valuable; they offered honest feedback and highlighted areas for improvement that I might have overlooked. This iterative process of designing, receiving feedback, and making adjustments helped me to continuously improve and innovate. Additionally, staying updated with industry trends, attending workshops, and engaging in ongoing education ensured that my skills remained current and relevant. This combination of practical experience, collaborative learning, and a commitment to continuous improvement has been instrumental in my development as a master designer.

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

YY : If I could meet and discuss with anyone, irrespective of time and space, it would be Marina Abramović. Her groundbreaking work in performance art has always fascinated and inspired me. Abramović's fearless exploration of the human condition, emotion, and the limits of the body and mind resonates deeply with my own interests in pushing the boundaries of design and art. Her ability to convey powerful messages through minimalist yet impactful performances is something I greatly admire. Discussing her creative process, understanding her perspectives on art and life, and learning how she channels her experiences into her work would be incredibly enriching. Her insights could offer profound inspiration for my own projects, especially in how to evoke strong emotional responses and connect deeply with audiences through design.

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

YY : First, I don’t consider myself famous. The true value of the awards and recognition I’ve received lies not in fame but in the opportunities they provide. Winning these awards has given me a chance to engage with the ongoing design world and witness the most amazing works from my peers. It’s incredibly inspiring to see the creativity and innovation happening in the field, which motivates me to continually improve and push the boundaries of my own work. The exposure to such diverse and groundbreaking designs is the most significant takeaway, as it helps me stay updated with industry trends and fosters a sense of community among designers. The awards serve as milestones that remind me of the dedication and passion required to excel, but ultimately, the real reward is the continuous learning and inspiration drawn from the global design community.

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

YY : My favorites have evolved over time, reflecting different stages of my life and growth. While my aesthetic preferences may change, the core of appreciating beauty remains timeless. Currently, I find myself drawn to the color blue for its calming and expansive qualities. My favorite place is the dynamic and culturally rich city of Tokyo, which never ceases to inspire me. When it comes to food, I have a deep appreciation for the complex flavors of Japanese cuisine, especially sushi. Autumn is my favorite season, with its vibrant colors and crisp air fostering a sense of renewal and creativity. One of my cherished possessions is my sketchbook, a constant companion that captures my ideas and inspirations. As for brands, I admire MUJI for its commitment to simplicity, functionality, and understated beauty. These preferences reflect my ongoing journey and the timeless core of my appreciation for beauty in various forms.

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

YY : What makes my day great as a designer often starts with reading. Immersing myself in design books, articles, and industry news stimulates my mind and sets a positive, inspired tone for the day. This daily habit keeps me informed about the latest trends and innovations, sparking new ideas and approaches. I also draw motivation from engaging with the design community, whether through discussions with peers or browsing portfolios and projects online. Seeing the creative work of others fuels my passion and pushes me to continually improve my own skills. Additionally, setting clear, achievable goals for the day helps me stay focused and driven. I find immense satisfaction in making progress on a project, whether it's refining a concept, solving a design challenge, or receiving positive feedback from a client. Balancing work with moments of reflection and creative exploration ensures that each day is productive and fulfilling, keeping my motivation high and my creativity sharp.

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

YY : Who could have known that I would become a "great" designer? As a child, I was simply someone who loved colors, shapes, and drawing. My early years were filled with creative exploration, but there was no clear indication of what lay ahead. I was driven by a passion for art and design, and all I did was continuously pursue this passion throughout my life. From those early days of doodling and experimenting with different forms, I committed myself to learning and growing in the field of design. It was this relentless pursuit of my interests and dedication to honing my skills that eventually shaped my career. Looking back, it's a journey of passion and perseverance rather than any predetermined path to greatness.

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

YY : Despite our creative visions, reality often surpasses our wildest predictions. Technological advancements, societal transformations, and environmental changes will undoubtedly shape a world that might be unimaginable today. I foresee a future where technology integrates seamlessly into daily life, potentially transforming our physical and virtual experiences in ways we can barely conceive. Artificial intelligence, space exploration, and bioengineering could revolutionize human existence, altering how we live, work, and interact. Yet, amid these profound changes, the core of human creativity and ingenuity will remain a driving force.