Tiange Wang and I-Yang Huang

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Tiange Wang and I-Yang Huang ("TWAIH") 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?

TWAIH : The educational and experiential foundations of our design background are comprehensive and rigorous, encompassing fields such as architecture, software development, art, and industrial design. But other than that, we relied on our curiosity, innate sense of aesthetics, and a deep appreciation for simplicity and elegance. true design is not just about how things look, but also about how they work and feel. It's a holistic approach that combines artistry with functionality, and We've always strived to bring that mindset to everything we design.

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

TWAIH : What motivates us to design is the desire to create products that make a difference in people's lives. We believe that design has the power to elevate the human experience, to bring joy, and to solve problems in ways that are both intuitive and beautiful. We became designers because we saw the potential to shape the world through thoughtful design, to explore boundaries, and to challenge the status quo. Design is not just a job for us; it's a passion, a calling that drives us to constantly innovate and reimagine what is possible under a technologically dynamic world.

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

TWAIH : We didn't choose to become designers out of obligation or necessity. It was a path that we willingly embraced because it resonated with who we are at our core. Design is not something that can be forced upon someone; it requires a deep connection and passion. We have always been drawn to design, even from a young age, and we pursued it with relentless determination. We firmly believe that our true calling cannot be forced or imposed but must be discovered and nurtured from within.

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

TWAIH : We design a wide range of products, from public space to physical devices to software interfaces, and even the ecosystems of both. We believe in creating a seamless integration of hardware, software, and user experience, where each element reinforces and enhances the other. We are particularly interested in designing products that empower individuals, that democratize technology and make it accessible to all. We wish to design more products that blur the line between technology and art, that inspire and delight, and that fundamentally change the way we interact with the world.

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

TWAIH : Young designers can strive to become design legends by honing their skills, continuously learning and improving, seeking inspiration from other designers, experimenting with new ideas, and persevering in their pursuit of excellence.

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

TWAIH : The distinction between a good designer and a great designer lies in their ability to go beyond boundaries, think innovatively, and consistently create designs that captivate and inspire. Great designers often possess a deep understanding of aesthetics, functionality, user experience, and problem-solving. The synthesis of all those sometimes creates a definitive product that fundamentally changes a concept. iPhone is a product like that.

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

TWAIH : Evaluating good design involves considering various factors such as aesthetics, functionality, user experience, innovation, and the ability to solve a problem effectively. Good design is often intuitive, visually pleasing, and enhances the user's experience or fulfills its intended purpose.

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

TWAIH : Good design adds value by enhancing usability, functionality, aesthetics, and overall user experience. It can improve efficiency, communication, and brand perception. Investing in good design can lead to increased user satisfaction, brand loyalty, and ultimately, business success.

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

TWAIH : If we had the time, we would love to design innovative and inclusive solutions for the education sector. We believe that education is a powerful tool for empowering individuals and shaping the future. Designing intuitive and engaging learning experiences, educational technologies, and accessible resources would be a meaningful endeavor to positively impact learners of all ages and backgrounds.

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

TWAIH : The dream project we haven't had time to realize yet is the creation of a sustainable and interconnected smart datacenter. We envision designing a datacenter that seamlessly integrates technology, infrastructure, and sustainable practices to enhance the functionality. This ambitious undertaking would require a holistic approach to renewable energy systems, smart networks, efficient resource management, and immersive digital experiences that foster unprecedented creation.

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

TWAIH : Success in design is subjective and multifaceted. However, we personally believe some ingredients can contribute to success. It include a combination of passion, dedication, continuous learning, attention to detail, the ability to adapt, and a commitment to expanding the horizons and creating meaningful response to the challenges.

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

TWAIH : Designers often draw inspiration from various sources and other design masters. Some notable design masters and legends that we often find inspirational include Dieter Rams, Paul Rand, Charles and Ray Eames, Philippe Starck, and many others, depending on type and scope of the project hovering on our minds.

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

TWAIH : We appreciate the innovation and impact of various Apple products, and it's challenging to pick a single favorite. However, if we were to choose one, we would say the iPhone stands out for its groundbreaking design, intuitive user experience, and seamless integration of hardware and software. The iPhone's ability to transform how we communicate, access information, and interact with the digital world has had a profound influence on the industry and people's lives worldwide. Its continued evolution and dedication to revolutionizing the field make it a significant achievement in the realm of technology and design.

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

TWAIH : SpaceV represents an innovative approach to wellness that is readily marketable and economically feasible. Its appeal lies in the flexibility and personalization it offers, allowing users to book spaces for various activities like exercise, meditation, relaxation, and more. This concept caters to a rising demand for private, versatile spaces that are conveniently located and affordably priced, thus aligning with current consumer trends and fostering growth and development.

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

TWAIH : To improve as designers, we engaged in continuous learning, stay updated on design trends and technologies, seek feedback from peers and mentors, experiment with new ideas, and work on a diverse range of projects to broaden the skill set and gain valuable experience.

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

TWAIH : If we hadn't become designers, we would have likely pursued careers in fields that involve creative problem-solving and innovation. It could have been in areas such as architecture, product development, or even entrepreneurship. We have a passion for advancing the frontier, exploring new ideas, and making a positive impact, so we would have sought opportunities where we could continue to bring about meaningful change and contribute to shaping the world in a different capacity.

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

TWAIH : Design can be defined as the process of creating solutions that meet specific objectives while considering aesthetics, functionality, user experience, and other relevant factors. It involves problem-solving through the thoughtful creation of visual, interactive, or physical artifacts.

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

TWAIH : The support and assistance of mentors, colleagues, friends, or family members greatly contributed our journey. The biggest support for us as designers came from the recognition of various awards, events and interviews.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

TWAIH : Becoming a great designer often requires a combination of talent, hard work, continuous learning, experimentation, and a willingness to take risks. It also involves building a strong portfolio, gaining practical experience, and establishing a reputation for excellence in the design community.

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

TWAIH : Obstacles faced by us can vary from time to time, but common challenges include fierce competition, limited resources, creative blocks, client expectations, time constraints, and navigating the complexities of the design industry. Overcoming these obstacles often requires perseverance, adaptability, and a passion for the craft.

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

TWAIH : Designers should present their work in a clear, visually appealing, and contextually relevant manner. Effective presentation can involve creating compelling portfolios, using appropriate mediums such as physical mock-ups or digital presentations, and effectively communicating the design's purpose, process, and impact.

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

TWAIH : In the future, we are excited to embark on our next design project, which revolves around creating a more “quiet” yet connected living environment. We aim to explore innovative solutions that integrate technology, renewable energy, and smart systems to promote user-friendly practices and enhance the well-being of individuals and communities. Our focus will be on designing experiences that harmonize with the environment, while still delivering exceptional functionality and aesthetics. Stay tuned for our upcoming endeavors as we continue to explore the unexplored realms of design and strive to make a positive impact on the world.

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

TWAIH : Our ultimate goal as designers is to leave a lasting impact on the world by creating designs that inspire, empower, and improve the lives of people. We strive to change the norms of what is possible, to challenge the status quo, and to drive meaningful innovation. Ultimately, we aim to contribute to a more sustainable, inclusive, and delightful future through our design work. We aspire to be catalysts for positive change and to shape experiences that resonate with people on a deep level, leaving a lasting legacy in the world of design.

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

TWAIH : People often expect esteemed designers to consistently produce exceptional and groundbreaking designs, to inspire others in the field, and to contribute significantly to the design industry through their expertise, vision, and thought leadership.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

TWAIH : Design plays a vital role in creating a better society by addressing various needs and challenges. It can improve functionality, accessibility, sustainability, aesthetics, and overall quality of life. Design has the power to solve problems, promote inclusivity, drive innovation, and shape the way people interact with their environment.

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

TWAIH : Our current preoccupation is the exploration of LLM and the potential demand for a new type of hardware to create an unprecedented user experience. There is a lot of possibilities, hope and inspiration arises from the current AI wave.

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

TWAIH : Among the various design projects, we have undertaken, the ones that gave us the most satisfaction were those where we was able to reimagine the limit of what was considered possible. These projects involved a harmonious integration of form and function, bringing together technology, aesthetics, and user experience in a way that truly resonated with people. The satisfaction also derived from witnessing the true power of collaborative design process and distilling ideas from conversation and communication.

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

TWAIH : Changes in the design industry can include advancements in technology, evolving design trends, greater emphasis on sustainability and inclusivity, improved collaboration tools, and a growing focus on human-centered design principles. Designers may hope for increased diversity, ethical practices, and the recognition of design's impact on society.

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

TWAIH : The design field is constantly evolving. It may continue to embrace emerging technologies, prioritize user experience and accessibility, and incorporate sustainable practices. Designers should stay adaptable, continuously learn, and anticipate trends to stay ahead in this dynamic industry.

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

TWAIH : The time required to finalize a design project can vary greatly depending on its scope, complexity, resources available, and individual working style. Some projects may be completed in a matter of days or weeks, while others may take months or even years to reach the desired outcome.

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

TWAIH : When starting a new design project, we typically begin by conducting research, understanding the problem or brief, gathering inspiration, brainstorming ideas, sketching or prototyping concepts, and refining the designs through an iterative process until achieving the desired outcome.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

TWAIH : Our design mottos include embracing creativity, stretching the limits, striving for excellence, solving problems, and making a positive impact through design.

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

TWAIH : The relationship between design and trends can be symbiotic. Trends can influence design by shaping aesthetics, materials, and styles. Conversely, designers can also set trends by introducing innovative ideas, shattering barriers, and challenging conventional norms.

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

TWAIH : Technology plays a significant role in design by enabling new possibilities, enhancing creative processes, and improving efficiency. We often utilize various software tools and are constantly trying out new tools.

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

TWAIH : We use a wide range of software and equipment depending on their specific field and project requirements. This can include design software such as Figma, 3d modeling tools, prototyping tools, and python for generative design.

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

TWAIH : Color, materials, and ambient elements play a crucial role in design as they contribute to aesthetics, evoke emotions, communicate brand identity, influence user experience, and create a desired atmosphere. We often carefully consider these factors to ensure the intended message and impact of the designs.

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

TWAIH : We appreciate questions that delve into the design process, inspiration, problem-solving, unique features, or the underlying meaning behind our designs. We also welcome inquiries about the impact of our designs on users or society.

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

TWAIH : When encountering a new great design or product, we often analyze its aesthetics, functionality, innovation, usability, materials, and overall impact. We also appreciate the designer's attention to detail, creative solutions, and the successful integration of form and function.

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

TWAIH : An ideal design partner for a designer would be someone who complements their skills, shares a similar design philosophy, brings diverse perspectives and expertise, and collaborates effectively to create exceptional designs. Co-design, involving teamwork and collective input, can lead to richer and more innovative outcomes.

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

TWAIH : Throughout our design journey, we have been influenced by a diverse range of people who have shaped our perspectives and approaches. However, it is difficult to pinpoint specific individuals as the most influential, as our interactions and exposure to different ideas have collectively contributed to our design ethos. We draw inspiration from visionary designers, thought leaders, and innovators across various disciplines, as well as the insights and feedback received from users and collaborators. The cumulative impact of these interactions has shaped our design philosophy, guiding us to constantly strive for excellence.

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

TWAIH : We often gain inspiration and knowledge from books written by renowned designers, design theorists, or thought leaders in related fields. Some influential design books include "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman, "Universal Principles of Design" by William Lidwell, and "Grid Systems in Graphic Design" by Josef Müller-Brockmann, among many others.

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

TWAIH : Mastering design skills often involves a combination of formal education, practical experience, continuous learning, experimentation, and exposure to different design disciplines and contexts. It requires dedication, practice, and a commitment to lifelong learning and self-improvement.

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

TWAIH : If we could transcend time and space, it would be fascinating to meet and engage in a conversation with a visionary individual who possesses an exceptional depth of knowledge, wisdom, and a unique perspective that could challenge and inspire us further. Steve Jobs in the late 90s for example.

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

TWAIH : The awards and recognition that we have received throughout the career are certainly gratifying and serve as validation for the hard work and dedication we have put into our designs. However, fame itself is not the primary motivator for us. What truly matters is the impact of our designs have on people's lives and the positive change they bring to the world.

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

TWAIH : As designers, we don't typically rely on personal favorites, as the focus is on creating designs that resonate with a diverse audience. However, we appreciate the versatility of colors, the inspiration found in various places, the diversity of cuisines, the beauty of all seasons, the potential of well-designed objects, and the impact of brands that innovate and inspire.

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

TWAIH : we once had a comical incident where we spent hours meticulously crafting a design, only to realize later that we had been working on the wrong file the entire time. It was a humbling reminder to double-check our work and embrace the occasional humorous mishaps that come with the creative process.

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

TWAIH : A great day for us as designer can be characterized by creative breakthroughs, successful project outcomes, positive client feedback, opportunities for collaboration or learning, and a sense of personal satisfaction. We may motivate ourselves by seeking inspiration, setting goals, embracing challenges, and reminding us the passion for design.

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

TWAIH : The signs of our future as great designers were evident in our childhood. We were both captivated by the beauty and functionality of everyday objects. Our innate sense of aesthetics and curiosity drove us to explore and create, foreshadowing our passion and talent for design that would later blossom.

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

TWAIH : Predicting what will happen a thousand years from now is highly speculative. However, designers will likely continue to adapt to societal changes, technological advancements, and evolving human needs. Design may play a crucial role in solving future challenges, creating sustainable solutions, and alter the way we interact with the world.

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

TWAIH : We want our users to know that our approach to design goes beyond just creating beautiful products. We believe in the power of design to transform lives and shape the future. Our goal is to design experiences that are intuitive, seamless, and delightful, bringing joy and simplicity to everyday interactions.