Yue Zhuo

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Yue Zhuo ("YZ") 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?

YZ : My design journey began with the School of the Art Institute of Chicago, providing me with a solid foundation. Throughout the years, I've cultivated my skills and perspectives, contributing to the narrative-driven approach that defines my work.

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

YZ : Design, for me, is a vehicle for storytelling and emotional connection. The ability to create immersive narratives that bring joy to users motivates me. It's a calling that merges passion with purpose.

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

YZ : Design was a conscious choice, a path I willingly embraced. The decision wasn't forced; rather, it emerged from an internal drive to contribute unique narratives through design.

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

YZ : My designs span the realm of furniture and objects, crafted to invite users into utopian fantasies. I aspire to design more projects that blur the lines between functionality and narrative, creating immersive experiences.

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

YZ : To become a design legend, young designers should cultivate a distinctive voice. Embrace challenges, seek diverse experiences, and stay authentic to your narrative. Never stop learning and be open to evolution.

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

YZ : A good designer creates aesthetically pleasing solutions, while a great designer weaves a narrative that transcends aesthetics. The ability to evoke emotions and connect with users defines greatness in design.

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

YZ : Good design seamlessly blends form and function, sparking joy and curiosity. It's an emotional journey that captivates users. Evaluating design involves assessing its ability to tell a compelling story and resonate with its audience.

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

YZ : Good design isn't just about aesthetics; it's a catalyst for positive change. Investing in good design enhances user experiences, fosters innovation, and contributes to a more harmonious and visually appealing world.

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

YZ : Given the time, I'd embark on a project that transcends boundaries, perhaps a large-scale immersive installation that invites people into a utopian narrative. The dream project involves creating an unforgettable experience for a diverse audience.

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

YZ : The dream project I've yet to realize is Swing Ray Side Table, a concept that intertwines nature, interactivity, and surprise. It's a testament to my utopian vision and awaits the perfect moment for fruition.

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

YZ : The secret lies in a relentless pursuit of authenticity. Combine passion with resilience, and infuse every design with a unique narrative. Success stems from a commitment to continuous growth and a genuine love for the creative process.

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

YZ : Design masters like Jordan Mozer, inspire me with their ability to seamlessly blend innovation and storytelling. Their works transcend trends, leaving an enduring impact on the design landscape.

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

YZ : Designs that resonate with me are those that tell a captivating story. Spun Chair by Magis stands out, as they masterfully blend functionality with narrative, creating emotional connections with users.

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

YZ : My greatest design is SEAt Urchin Rocking Chair, where every element harmonizes to create a utopian narrative. Its greatness lies in its ability to evoke joy, surprise, and curiosity, offering users an immersive and memorable experience.

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

YZ : Continuous learning, embracing challenges, and seeking inspiration from diverse sources have been my pillars of self-improvement. Staying open to evolving trends and staying true to my narrative have shaped my growth.

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

YZ : Maybe a restaurant owner, or a professional dog walker

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

YZ : Design, for me, is the art of storytelling through visuals. It's the harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality that creates memorable, emotional connections.

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

YZ : My biggest supporter has been my families, whose unwavering belief in my narrative-driven approach has been a guiding light throughout my career.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

YZ : Becoming a great designer involves a blend of passion, resilience, and a commitment to authentic storytelling. The support of mentors, combined with a love for continuous learning, has been instrumental.

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

YZ : Designers should present their work as a compelling narrative, highlighting the emotional journey behind each creation. Transparency and clarity in conveying the story enhance audience engagement

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

YZ : I'm currently working on Angler Fish Candle Holder, an exciting venture that brings me brand new challenge to try new material. Expect a harmonious blend of narrative and functionality, inviting users into a unique and immersive experience

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

YZ : My ultimate goal is to leave a lasting impact on the design landscape, inspiring future generations with narrative-driven creations that bring joy and curiosity.

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

YZ : People expect a designer to create not just functional objects but immersive experiences. They anticipate a seamless blend of aesthetics and narrative that resonates emotionally.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

YZ : Design plays a crucial role in shaping a better society by enhancing experiences, fostering innovation, and contributing to the overall aesthetic and functional harmony of our surroundings.

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

YZ : Projects like Swing Ray Side Table provided immense satisfaction, combining narrative richness with user engagement. Each resonates emotionally, marking a fulfillment of design objectives.

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

YZ : The design industry should prioritize inclusivity, sustainability, and a deeper connection with users. Embracing diverse perspectives will lead to a more enriching and purposeful design landscape.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

YZ : "Crafting narratives through design, where joy meets functionality, is the essence of my creative journey. Every creation is a story waiting to unfold."

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

YZ : Design sets trends by pushing boundaries and creating new paradigms. While trends influence design, the most impactful designs emerge from authentic storytelling.

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

YZ : Technology is an enabler, expanding the possibilities of design. It enhances the creative process, from conceptualization to execution, fostering innovation and efficiency.

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

YZ : I leverage Rhino and Keyshot.

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

YZ : Color, materials, and ambient elements are integral to design, shaping the emotional and sensory experience. They are the storytellers, evoking specific moods, enhancing functionality, and creating immersive narratives. The right combination transforms a design, elevating it beyond aesthetics into a multisensory journey.

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

YZ : I wish people would inquire about the narrative behind my designs. Asking about the inspiration, the emotional journey embedded in each creation, allows for a deeper connection with the audience. Understanding the story enriches the appreciation for the design.

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

YZ : When encountering a new great design, my mind races with admiration for the innovation, curiosity about the design process, and an appreciation for the emotional connection it establishes. It fuels a sense of wonder, inspiring me to push my creative boundaries.

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

YZ : My ideal design partner embraces collaboration and shares a passion for storytelling through design. Co-design is a powerful avenue for merging diverse perspectives, fostering innovation, and creating holistic narratives that resonate with a broader audience.

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

YZ : : Interactions with mentors, collaborators, and fellow designers have significantly shaped my design perspective. Their insights, critiques, and shared experiences have been invaluable in refining my approach and pushing the boundaries of my creativity.

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

YZ : The path to mastery involves continuous learning, hands-on experiences, and a commitment to pushing boundaries. Actively seeking challenges, embracing failures as learning opportunities, and staying open to evolving trends contribute to skill development.

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

YZ : Awards and recognition are humbling acknowledgments of the narratives I've crafted. While fame has its challenges, it's a platform to amplify the stories behind my designs and share them with a broader audience.

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

YZ : Black, My bathroom, Ice cream, Autumn, Q-tips, LEGO

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

YZ : In a delightful twist of creativity, I once found myself sketching a design concept on a napkin at a café. Little did I know that this impromptu idea would evolve into one of my most celebrated works, proving that inspiration can strike at the most unexpected moments.

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

YZ : A great day as a designer begins with a sense of purpose and curiosity. The opportunity to create, explore new narratives, and bring joy to users motivates me. The magic lies in the process of transforming ideas into tangible, immersive experiences.

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

YZ : As a child, the signs of a creative spirit were evident. From incessant doodling to an insatiable curiosity about how things work, the seeds of a designer were sown early. The journey to becoming a great designer was a natural evolution of childhood interests

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

YZ : Looking a thousand years into the future, I envision a design landscape that seamlessly integrates technology, sustainability, and emotional resonance. Designs will not only meet functional needs but contribute to a harmonious, interconnected global society.

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

YZ : To my wonderful fans, I extend heartfelt gratitude for joining me on this creative journey. Your support fuels my passion for storytelling through design. Expect more immersive narratives, surprises, and joy in the designs to come. Thank you for being part of this vibrant community!