Ninglu Zhang

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Ninglu Zhang ("NZ") 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?

NZ : I hold a BFA and an MFA in 3D Design from the University of Iowa, completing my studies in 2022.

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

NZ : Design is more than about aesthetics, it was about creating solutions that empowered people to live conveniently and comfortably, I wanted to create something that mattered.

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

NZ : I choose to become a designer

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

NZ : My primary areas of focus were product design and furniture design.

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

NZ : A truly exceptional design begins with the question: Is it genuinely serving the users? It must be user-centered, built on real insights and tailored to meet specific needs, ensuring every interaction is intuitive and meaningful. Every detail should have a clear purpose, eliminating unnecessary elements and creating a seamless, cohesive experience. When functionality, empathy, and intentionality align, the result is a design that not only works but also resonates deeply with its users.

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

NZ : Good design creates value by enhancing functionality, improving user experiences, and fostering emotional connections. It solves real problems efficiently, making products and systems more intuitive, accessible, and enjoyable to use. Investing in good design leads to long-term benefits, such as increased customer satisfaction, stronger brand loyalty, and greater market competitiveness.

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

NZ : If I hadn’t become a designer, I would probably have pursued a career as a doctor, focusing on helping people in a different but equally meaningful way.

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

NZ : Professor Monica Correia

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

NZ : My ultimate goal as a designer is to create things that truly make a difference and simplify people’s lives in meaningful ways. I want my work to go beyond aesthetics or trends and genuinely address real needs, fostering solutions that improve daily experiences and solve problems.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

NZ : Design helps create a better society by solving problems, improving accessibility, and fostering inclusivity.

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

NZ : The time it takes to finalize a design project varies significantly, ranging from a few months to as long as two years. The timeline depends on the complexity of the project.

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

NZ : Technology plays a crucial role in my design process, serving as both a tool and an enabler. It allows me to visualize ideas, prototype efficiently, and test concepts with precision, ensuring practicality and functionality.

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

NZ : I primarily use 3ds Max, Rhino, and AutoCAD in my design work, as they are essential for modeling, rendering, and drafting.

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

NZ : Color, materials, and ambiance are what users notice first, creating an immediate impression. They set the tone, convey mood, and define the character of the design.

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

NZ : I developed my skills as a designer by staying attuned to trends and continually exploring new ideas. Attending exhibitions and shows has been instrumental in gaining inspiration, learning from others, and understanding evolving design practices.

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

NZ : Not really. As a child, I was more obsessed with drawing and painting than design. My passion for art was evident, but it wasn’t until later that I discovered how to channel that creativity into the world of design.