Cassily Danwei Zhao

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Cassily Danwei Zhao ("CDZ") 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?

CDZ : I recently graduated from ArtCenter in Pasadena, California, where I studied art and design from 2019 to 2024. The program was rigorous and comprehensive, providing me with a strong foundation in various design disciplines, from traditional art techniques to advanced digital design. During my time at ArtCenter, I had the opportunity to participate in an exchange program in Tokyo and complete a couple of internships, which broadened my perspective and honed my skills. Growing up in China, I was always drawn to creativity, spending countless hours drawing, painting, and crafting. This passion led me to pursue formal education in design, where I could blend my early interests with structured, professional training. Living in the United States for nearly a decade has exposed me to diverse cultural and artistic influences, enriching my design journey and shaping my unique style.

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

CDZ : I am motivated by a deep passion for creativity and the desire to make a positive impact on people's lives and emotional levels. From a young age, I loved drawing, painting, and taking things apart, which naturally led me to explore more structured forms of art and design. I became a designer because I enjoy finding opportunities and creating things that are both beautiful and functional. The ability to transform ideas into tangible products and experiences that create meaningful connections is incredibly fulfilling. I am driven by the challenge of finding innovative solutions and the joy of seeing my designs resonate with and improve the lives of others.

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

CDZ : I chose to become a designer entirely on my own. None of my family members are designers, so my decision was driven purely by my passion and love for creativity.

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

CDZ : I design various products, including consumer goods and electronics, furniture, and digital illustrations. Recently, I have been particularly focused on designing furniture. In the future, I wish to design more innovative furniture and fixture collections that not only look beautiful but also improve user experience and well-being.

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

CDZ : Even though I am still finding my way to be aspirational and inspiring, I can offer some tips to young designers: Focus on mastering design fundamentals and finding a workflow that enhances idea visualization. Stay curious and continuously learn and innovate. Build a strong portfolio, embrace feedback, and network with other designers. Prioritize user experience, be authentic in your style, and maintain a healthy work-life balance. Stay resilient in the face of challenges, and commit to creating functional, user-friendly designs to achieve lasting success in the design field.

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

CDZ : A good designer creates functional designs, meeting project requirements effectively. A great designer, however, goes beyond these basics. They deeply understand the user experience, creating designs that resonate emotionally and improve users' lives. Great designers are innovative, constantly pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, and they stay ahead of trends and technologies. They are also excellent communicators and collaborators, working well with clients and team members.

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

CDZ : A really good design seamlessly combines functionality, aesthetics, and emotional connection. It should solve problems or embrace opportunities effectively while visually appealing and user-friendly. To evaluate good design, I consider its functionality, visual appeal, user experience, innovation, and sustainability. Additionally, I look for designs that have been refined through feedback and iteration. A design that excels in these areas is not just good but truly exceptional.

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

CDZ : Overall, good design enriches the quality of life, making everyday interactions more enjoyable and meaningful. In terms of investment, Good design can set a brand apart and drive business success.

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

CDZ : If I had the time, I would love to design innovative, sustainable furniture solutions for urban living spaces. This furniture would be tailored to meet the needs of young professionals and families living in small apartments, providing multifunctional and space-saving solutions without compromising style or comfort.

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

CDZ : A dream project I haven’t yet had time to realize is designing an innovative public space that fosters community interaction and engagement. This project would involve creating a multifunctional park or plaza with art installations, interactive play areas, and sustainable landscaping. The space would be designed to host community events, outdoor markets, and cultural activities, making it a vibrant hub for social interaction. I would aim to create an inclusive environment that brings people together, encourages creativity, and enhances the overall quality of urban life. This project would combine my passion for design, community building, and environmental sustainability.

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

CDZ : My secret ingredient for design is empathy. By understanding and empathizing with the end user's needs, desires, and challenges, I can create designs that truly resonate and provide meaningful solutions.

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

CDZ : I am most inspired by Dieter Rams. Even though we have pretty different design styles, his "less but better" philosophy has always been a guiding principle in my work.I am also inspired by Hans Wegner, a master of Danish modern design. His work has the perfect balance between form and function.

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

CDZ : I love Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman by Charles and Ray Eames. This iconic furniture set combines comfort, style, and innovation. I really appreciate how the Eameses used new materials and techniques to create a design that symbolizes modern luxury and relaxation. I also love Plus Minus Zero Humidifier by Naoto Fukasawa. A humidifier exemplifies Fukasawa's approach to "super normal" design. Its minimalist form, intuitive functionality, and subtle presence make it a standout piece. I admire a lot how Fukasawa focuses on creating everyday objects that blend seamlessly into their environments while providing exceptional usability.

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

CDZ : One of my greatest designs is the "Alskar" lounge chair, which has received multiple accolades, including the A' Design Award, SIT Design Award, IDA, Spark Award, and New York Product Design Award. Through its ergonomic design, the "Alskar" lounge chair provides exceptional comfort and support. Its natural aesthetics bring a sense of harmony to any indoor space. Crafted to evoke a deep emotional connection, the chair inspires a feeling of relaxation and being embraced.

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

CDZ : To become better designers, people should definitely focus on continuous learning, embracing feedback, and staying curious, which I think are the most important things for creatives. It's also important to build a strong foundation in design principles and tools and then keep up with the latest trends and technologies, all of which help train design-thinking minds. In my own journey, I dedicated myself to mastering design basics and consistently sought opportunities to expand my knowledge and skills. I embraced constructive criticism to improve my work and stayed open to learning from others. Participating in exchange programs and internships provided valuable real-world experience. I also focused on developing a workflow that best visualizes and streamlines my ideas, which has been crucial in refining my design process. By staying curious, passionate, and committed to growth, I've been able to improve as a designer continually.

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

CDZ : I have quite an interesting answer to this. If I hadn’t become a designer, I might have pursued a career in law, which would have allowed me to engage in critical thinking, problem-solving, and advocating for others, skills that are also valuable in the design field.

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

CDZ : For me, design is the harmonious blend of aesthetics and functionality. It's about creating things that are not only visually appealing but also practical. Design is a powerful tool for improving everyday experiences, elevating moments, making meaningful connections, and enhancing how we interact with the world. It's a continuous learning, experimentation, and refinement process, where each project presents an opportunity to push creative boundaries and make a positive difference. Ultimately, design is a way to communicate ideas, evoke emotions, and create meaningful connections. It's about transforming concepts into tangible realities that enrich our lives and environment.

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

CDZ : My journey to reach these heights has been supported by many people, but my biggest supporter has always been my family. Despite none of them being designers, their unwavering encouragement and belief in my abilities have been instrumental in my growth. They provided me with the freedom to pursue my passion and the motivation to keep pushing forward, even during challenging times. Additionally, mentors and peers from my educational and professional experiences have offered invaluable guidance, feedback, and inspiration, helping me refine my skills and achieve my goals.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

CDZ : Continuous learning and staying curious have been fundamental, as they keep me updated with the latest trends and technologies. Embracing feedback and being open to constructive criticism have allowed me to refine my skills and improve my work. Additionally, real-world experiences from internships and collaborations have offered invaluable insights and practical knowledge.

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

CDZ : We constantly face obstacles. One of the primary challenges I had was receiving and processing constructive criticism. Initially, it was challenging to separate personal feelings from professional growth, but learning to embrace feedback was crucial for improvement. Balancing creativity with functionality was also a significant hurdle. It took time to develop a sense of creating designs that were not only aesthetically pleasing but also practical and user-friendly. Beyond that, navigating the competitive nature of the design industry was also difficult. Standing out in a field with many talented individuals requires persistence, resilience, and continuous learning.

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

CDZ : Designers should present their work in a clear, compelling, and professional manner to effectively communicate their ideas and the value of their designs. Creating a well-organized portfolio that showcases a diverse range of projects can help a lot. Each project should include a brief description, the design process, and the final outcome. Highlighting the challenges faced and the solutions provided can demonstrate problem-solving skills.

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

CDZ : My next design project focuses on creating outdoor furniture specifically designed for dining. This project aims to blend comfort, durability, and aesthetic appeal to enhance outdoor dining experiences. You can look forward to seeing more innovative and sustainable designs from me.

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

CDZ : My ultimate goal as a designer is to create products that make a meaningful and positive impact on people's lives

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

CDZ : People can expect an esteemed designer to consistently deliver high-quality, innovative, and functional designs that push the boundaries of creativity and usability. Besides that, people expect an esteemed designer to be a visionary who can inspire others, set new trends, and contribute meaningfully to the design community.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

CDZ : Design plays a crucial role in creating a better society by addressing and solving real-world problems, enhancing everyday experiences, and promoting sustainability. Thoughtful design improves the functionality and usability of products, making them more accessible and user-friendly for diverse populations. By prioritizing user needs and inclusivity, design can bridge gaps and create solutions catering to all societal segments.

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

CDZ : I am currently working on an exciting project involving the design of office furniture intended for short pauses, work breaks, and casual conversations with colleagues. The furniture features a playful, colorful look designed to create an inviting and relaxing atmosphere in the workplace. This project aims to enhance employee well-being and productivity by providing a comfortable and aesthetically pleasing environment for brief respites during the workday.

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

CDZ : One of the projects that brought me great satisfaction was designing a series of IoT intellectual electronic products for a smart cloud community. Being involved from the beginning to the end, visiting manufacturers, and negotiating with vendors provided a comprehensive and rewarding experience. This project allowed me to integrate advanced technology with user-centric design, creating products that improved everyday life in a smart, connected community.

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

CDZ : In the coming years, I would like to see the design industry place a greater emphasis on sustainability and eco-friendly practices. This includes using sustainable materials, promoting circular design principles, and reducing waste throughout the production process.

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

CDZ : The design industry is moving towards increased incorporation of artificial intelligence, virtual reality, and augmented reality into design processes, leading to expansion. These technologies will facilitate more immersive and interactive design experiences, empowering designers to visualize and experiment with their ideas in innovative ways. This shift will also result in greater personalization and customization. Progress in manufacturing technologies, such as 3D printing, will enable the creation of more personalized and customized design solutions. This development will offer users products tailored to their individual requirements and preferences, thereby enhancing user satisfaction and engagement.

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

CDZ : The time it takes to design an object can vary widely. Simpler projects typically take 4 to 8 weeks, while more complex projects can take several months to a year, depending on the scope, complexity, and iterative testing and refinement needed.

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

CDZ : When I have a new design project, I start with thorough research and an understanding of the project's requirements and context.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

CDZ : "Less, but better."

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

CDZ : Design and trends have a dynamic, reciprocal relationship. On one hand, innovative designs often set new trends by introducing fresh ideas, aesthetics, and functionalities that capture people's imaginations and influence their preferences. On the other hand, trends can significantly influence design by reflecting the evolving tastes, needs, and values of society. Designers often look to current trends for inspiration and to ensure their work resonates with contemporary audiences.

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

CDZ : I am skilled in Visualization and Prototyping, utilizing advanced software tools to create intricate 3D models and lifelike renderings of my designs. This enables me to visualize concepts and make early adjustments as needed clearly. Additionally, I excel in Collaboration, using digital platforms and cloud-based tools to work with team members, clients, and stakeholders seamlessly. This ensures that feedback is efficiently integrated and the design process stays cohesive and aligned with project goals.

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

CDZ : My toolbox includes a mix of software, hardware, books, and sources of inspiration that help streamline my design process and spark creativity. Here’s what’s inside: Software: Adobe Creative Suite, Solidworks, Keyshot, keynotes, Procreate Hardware: iPad Pro Gen 1, Macbook Air, Desktop

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

CDZ : Color: Color influences mood, perception, and user experience. It influences emotions, convey messages, and creates a visual hierarchy, enhancing aesthetics and establishing brand identity. Materials: Materials impact functionality, durability, and tactile experience. They define a design's look and feel, contribute to sustainability, and influence cost. Texture and finish also affect the sensory experience. Ambiance: Ambiance is the overall atmosphere created by color, materials, lighting, and spatial arrangement. It sets the mood and tone, shaping how users feel and interact with a space or product, which I consider as emotional connection.

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

CDZ : I wish people would ask more about the thought process and inspiration behind my designs. Questions like "What inspired this design?" or "How did you approach solving this particular problem?" allow me to share the deeper narrative and creative journey that led to the final product.

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

CDZ : When encountering a new great design or product, I'm immediately curious about its inspiration and the designer's creative process. I wonder what sparked their idea and what drove them to design this particular solution. Understanding the thought process behind the design ignites my own curiosity and often inspires me to explore new concepts and approaches in my own work.

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

CDZ : My ideal design partner is someone who shares a passion for creativity, and collaboration.. Whether it's a fellow designer, a client, or a multidisciplinary team, I value partners who bring diverse perspectives, expertise, and skills to the table. I do believe in the power of co-design to produce more meaningful and impactful solutions. By working closely with others, pooling our talents, and leveraging collective insights, we can create designs that are not only visually stunning but also functional, user-centered, and culturally relevant.

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

CDZ : Throughout my design journey, I've been fortunate to interact with a diverse array of individuals who have each contributed uniquely to my growth and development as a designer. Mentors and my peers have had particularly significant influences on my design perspective and approach. My mentors ey have provided invaluable guidance, sharing their wisdom and expertise to help me navigate the complexities of the design industry and refine my skills. My fellow designer friends have inspired me with their creativity, pushing me to think outside the box and explore new possibilities in my own work.

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

CDZ : Books: "Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman.

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

CDZ : My path to mastering design has been shaped by a commitment to learning, hands-on experience, and collaboration.

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

CDZ : If I could transcend time and space, I would be intrigued to converse with the engineers and architects responsible for building the pyramids at Giza. These ancient marvels stand as testaments to human ingenuity, engineering prowess, and cultural significance. I would love to learn about their inspiration, innovative techniques, organizational strategies, and the cultural, religious, and technological context that shaped their design and construction.

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

CDZ : Receiving awards and recognition for my work is incredibly gratifying and serves as validation of the dedication and passion I've poured into my design process. It's humbling to be acknowledged by peers, industry experts, and the broader community for the impact of my designs. While fame brings its own set of challenges, such as heightened expectations and scrutiny, I view it as an opportunity to leverage my platform for positive change and inspiration.

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

CDZ : All my favorites here: Color: light sky blue Place: Kyoto, Japan Food: Paella Season: Autumn, with its vibrant foliage and cozy atmosphere Thing: Plushies Brand: Jellycat

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

CDZ : One amusing memory from my early days as a designer involves an unexpected encounter with a fish tank. At the tender age of a baby walker and unable to talk yet, I found myself intrigued by the buttons on our home's fish tank. Curious to discover their purpose, I decided to investigate further and ended up accidentally emptying the entire tank! Luckily and thankfully, the fishes were saved from my unintentional aquatic experiment! It was a hilarious mishap that taught me the importance of curiosity, albeit with a touch of mischief, even from a young age.

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

CDZ : As a designer, my day is made great when I have the opportunity to immerse myself in creative exploration. The satisfaction of bringing ideas to life, seeing concepts evolve into tangible designs, and positively impacting users' lives energizes me.

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

CDZ : As a child, my fascination with creativity and problem-solving was certainly apparent. I spent countless hours drawing, building, and experimenting with different materials, driven by an innate curiosity and a desire to bring my ideas to life. While it may not have been immediately evident that I would become a great designer, the seeds of my passion for design were undoubtedly present from a young age.

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

CDZ : There is one certain thing: the world will continue to evolve and change in ways that we can scarcely imagine. In a thousand years, I envision humanity having made incredible advancements in technology, science, and culture, leading to a more interconnected, equitable, and sustainable society than ever before.

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

CDZ : I want to express my deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and enthusiasm for my design work as a designer. Your encouragement and appreciation mean the world to me, and it fuels my passion to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.