Yingfei Zhuo

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Yingfei 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 : I work in design and architecture between New York and Beijing. I have an extensive educational background, including an MFA in Industrial Design from Parsons School of Design, an MSc in Light and Lighting from University College London, and a BA in Architecture from the University of Liverpool. I currently focus on some projects in sustainable design.

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

YZ : Design is a way of expressing my vision of the world. I love solving problems through design, improving people's quality of life, and creating aesthetic and functional works.

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

YZ : When I first started college I chose to be more interested in architecture, but over the next few years, I realized that I was more interested in the design side of things, as I was always curious and passionate about the details of design. So in the next few years, I started to choose to become a designer.

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

YZ : I design across a wide range of disciplines, including architectural and industrial design. I would like to get more involved in the field of sustainable design, especially in the use of biomaterials to create eco-responsible design works.

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

YZ : As a young designer, I think we should keep learning, be creative, and keep our curiosity about new materials and technologies. In addition, we should also accumulate practical experience and dare to accept challenges and criticisms.

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

YZ : A good designer solves problems and creates aesthetically pleasing designs, while a great designer not only does these things, but also conveys deep concepts, inspires emotional resonance, and promotes the development and advancement of the industry through design.

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

YZ : A good design should have functionality, aesthetic value, and sustainability. Evaluating a good design involves considering whether it effectively meets user needs, whether it is innovative and unique, and whether it is environmentally friendly.

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

YZ : Good design not only enhances the utility and aesthetics of a product but also improves the user experience, and quality of life and should even be sustainable or recyclable. Investing in good design brings long-term economic and social benefits and is a strong support for sustainable development in the future.

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

YZ : If I had the time, I would design a range of eco-friendly furniture and home furnishings that utilize biomaterials for people who are pursuing a sustainable lifestyle. That's what I plan to do next.

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

YZ : My dream project is to design a system of hospitality that is completely recycled from today's waste resources, like my current project Papera, where the hotelier can interact with the user by booking in advance to achieve resource self-sufficiency and harmony with nature. The derivatives of this system should not only be aesthetically pleasing and practical but should also be able to rely entirely on natural resources for energy self-sufficiency and waste recycling.

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

YZ : My secret ingredient for success is to be innovative and to keep learning, always keeping up with the latest design trends and technologies. I believe in the importance of teamwork, paying attention to every detail, and the courage to break the mold and explore new design possibilities.

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

YZ : I draw inspiration from many design gurus, including Zaha Hadid's avant-garde architectural designs, and Oki Sato's design work.

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

YZ : My favorite is the Cabbage Chair designed by Oki Sato, which is made from paper left over from Issey Miyake's garment-making process. This innovative use of material not only demonstrates the designer's reuse of discarded materials, but also embodies the concept of environmental protection and sustainability. The shape and structure of the chair are unique, inspired by the natural form of the cabbage. Despite the complexity of its appearance, the Cabbage Chair is a very simple design with no unnecessary decoration, highlighting the essence of the material and form. Through this design, Oki Sato expresses a deep reflection on nature, materials, and the design process, and at the same time, through this simple yet meaningful design, it provokes reflection on the use of materials and the protection of the environment. Cabbage Chair is not only an innovative furniture design, but also a profound interpretation of the concept of material reuse and environmental protection. This design is not only visually appealing but also conceptually and meaningfully moving, which is why I love Oki Sato and his designs.

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

YZ : EcoShell is one of the more satisfying projects I have worked on so far, embodying the intersection of sustainability, innovation, and social responsibility. This project has allowed me to utilize my passion to create solutions that are both functional and aesthetically pleasing while addressing significant environmental issues.EcoShell utilizes discarded oyster shells and adhesives derived from fish bones, two marine materials that are abundant in resources but often wasted. By repurposing these materials, EcoShell reduces landfill and provides a sustainable alternative to traditional building materials. The biodegradable nature of EcoShell tiles ensures that they can be safely reintroduced into the natural ecosystem at the end of their life cycle, minimizing their long-term impact on the environment. EcoShell successfully combines environmental sustainability, practical application, and aesthetic appeal. By transforming marine debris into valuable building materials, EcoShell not only solves a pressing ecological problem, but also sets a new standard for sustainable design in the construction industry. This project exemplifies my commitment to creating innovative solutions that help create a greener, more responsible future.

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

YZ : To become a better designer, you need to keep learning and practicing, and actively absorb knowledge from different fields. I have expanded my horizons by reading a lot of design books, attending various design exhibitions and lectures, and constantly conducting design experiments to improve my skills.

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

YZ : If I hadn't become a designer, I probably would have become an artist or a materials researcher, and still engaged in work related to creativity and innovation.

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

YZ : I think design is the process of combining creativity and functionality to solve real problems. Design for me is a way of expression, a means to create a better life for people through innovative thinking and methods.

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

YZ : My family, friends, and mentors have been my biggest supporters. They have provided endless encouragement and help in the pursuit of my dreams.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

YZ : Continuous learning and practice, persistence in innovation, teamwork, and attention to detail have helped me become a great designer.

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

YZ : Before becoming a master designer, I experienced many failures and challenges, including technical difficulties, depletion of design inspiration, and market acceptance of new designs.

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

YZ : Designers should showcase their work through professional portfolios, personal websites, social media platforms and participation in design exhibitions to increase their visibility and influence.

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

YZ : My next design project is to develop a range of sustainable furniture utilizing biomaterials. You can expect to see more designs that incorporate innovative materials and environmentally friendly concepts.

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

YZ : My ultimate goal is to be a leader and innovator in the field of design by improving people's quality of life through design and promoting the concept of sustainable development.

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

YZ : People expect me to continue to produce innovative, high-quality design work and to contribute to design education and social responsibility.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

YZ : Design can create a better society by solving practical problems, improving people's living environment, enhancing the quality of life, and promoting social progress and sustainable development.

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

YZ : I am currently working on researching how to apply biomaterials to more everyday product design, and I am very excited by the endless creative possibilities this research brings.

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

YZ : Several design projects have given me immense satisfaction throughout my career, each for different reasons. Papera - Sustainable Hotel Booking Platform Project Papera remains one of my most satisfying endeavors. This project allowed me to integrate my passion for sustainable design with my expertise in product design and UX design. Seeing the final result—a functional and environmentally-friendly system. BioBlend - Biomaterial Furniture Collection Designing a biomaterial furniture collection was another project that gave me great satisfaction. Working with innovative materials derived from natural sources, such as milkweed fiber, allowed me to push the boundaries of conventional design. Seeing these pieces come to life and knowing that they offer both aesthetic appeal and environmental benefits was incredibly rewarding. Community Engagement Initiatives Engaging with local communities on design projects has always been fulfilling for me. Whether it's collaborating with residents to revitalize public spaces or leading design workshops for underserved populations, these projects have a direct and tangible impact on people's lives. The sense of connection and empowerment that comes from working closely with communities and seeing the positive outcomes of our collective efforts is deeply gratifying. In summary, the design projects that have given me the most satisfaction are those that align with my values, allow me to make a positive impact on the environment and communities, and enable me to express my creativity and innovation. Whether it's through a sustainable system, biomaterial furniture, or community engagement initiatives, each project contributes to my sense of fulfillment as a designer committed to creating a better world.

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

YZ : I would like to see the design industry focus more on sustainability, promote the use of eco-friendly materials, and create more designs that have a positive impact on the environment and society based on technological innovation.

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

YZ : I think the design field will focus more and more on sustainability, utilizing advanced technology and materials to create smarter and more environmentally friendly design products.

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

YZ : The time it takes to complete a design project varies depending on the complexity of the project and usually ranges from a few months to a year, including all phases from conceptual design to final implementation.

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

YZ : When I have a new design project, I usually start with research and gathering inspiration, then concept sketching and prototyping, and finally move on to detailed design and implementation.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

YZ : Design may not be able to change the world, but designers can.

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

YZ : I think design and trends are mutually reinforcing. Good design can lead and set trends, and trends can provide inspiration and direction for design.

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

YZ : Technology plays a vital role in design. It not only provides the tools to realize ideas, but also drives design innovation and makes design more functional and actionable.

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

YZ : I use a variety of design software in my work, such as AutoCAD, Rhino, and Keyshot. In addition, I use equipment such as 3D printers and laser cutters to create models and prototypes.

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

YZ : Color, material, and environment are important elements in design. They not only affect the aesthetics of a design but also determine its functionality and user experience. Choosing the right colors and materials and considering the environment can make the design more harmonious and functional.

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

YZ : I would like people to ask me about the philosophy and story behind the design and how I have incorporated sustainability and innovation into the design.

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

YZ : When I see a new great design or product, I think about where the idea came from, the process of realizing it, and the impact it has on users and the environment.

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

YZ : My ideal design partner is creative, collaborative, and technically competent. I believe that co-design leads to more inspiration and innovation, and creates better design work.

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

YZ : My mentors, fellow designers, and clients have the greatest influence on my designs. Their feedback and suggestions help me to continuously improve and enhance my designs.

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

YZ : "Cradle to Cradle: Remaking the Way We Make Things" by William McDonough and Michael Braungart had a profound impact on my approach to design. This seminal book challenges conventional notions of sustainability and advocates for a paradigm shift in the way we design, produce, and consume goods. It inspired me to rethink the traditional linear model of production and consumption, where products are disposed of after use, leading to environmental degradation. Instead, I began to explore circular design principles, aiming to create products that contribute to a circular economy by being regenerative, reusable, and recyclable. At the same time, it emphasizes the importance of material health and optimization in design. It encourages designers to select materials that are safe for humans and the environment, as well as to design products with the end of their lifecycle in mind. This perspective reshaped my understanding of material selection and waste management, leading me to prioritize sustainable and non-toxic materials in my designs. The book advocates for a holistic approach to design, where designers collaborate across disciplines and consider the broader socio-economic and environmental impacts of their work. It taught me the importance of systems thinking in design and inspired me to collaborate with experts from diverse fields to create more innovative and sustainable solutions.

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

YZ : I develop my skills through continuous learning and practice, attending various design courses and workshops, actively participating in design projects, and learning from other master designers.

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

YZ : If I could meet, talk, and discuss with anyone irrespective of time and space, it would be Steve Jobs. His visionary approach to design and innovation has profoundly influenced various fields, including technology, design, and business. Although sustainability was not a primary focus during most of Jobs' tenure at Apple, later years saw a shift towards more environmentally friendly practices. Discussing how he would approach sustainability today, given the current technological advancements and ecological challenges, would be incredibly enlightening. It would be fascinating to see how he would integrate sustainable practices without compromising on design and innovation.

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

YZ : I am extremely honored and grateful for the awards and recognition I have received. These achievements inspire me to strive for excellence, but becoming famous is not my main goal. I'm more focused on contributing to society and natural systems through sustainable design.

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

YZ : My favorite color is Klein Blue, the place is London, the food is McDonald's fries, the season is summer, my favorite thing is natural scenery, and my favorite brand is Apple.

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

YZ : One of my most interesting and memorable experiences as a designer occurred when I was working on a furniture project shortly after transitioning from architecture. During my time as an architect, I designed a building with a complex facade that used a combination of light and shadow to create dynamic visual effects throughout the day. So when I turned to furniture projects, I found myself staring at biomaterials and trying to imagine how to transform it into a chair. Suddenly, I remembered a structure from my architectural project, so I started sketching, a chair with an overlapping structure, each layer filtering light and creating shadows, just like the facade of that building. The final product is a chair that not only provides comfort but also a unique aesthetic experience. When light passes through the objects, they create an interesting visual effect, casting intricate shadows on the floor. It's as if I've miniaturized the facade of my building and transformed it into a functional piece of art. This experience taught me that the principles of design can transcend different fields in unexpected and delightful ways.

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

YZ : Seeing my design work being accepted and loved makes my day. I motivate myself by constantly learning new things, taking on new challenges, and keeping my love for design alive.

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

YZ : From a young age, I was always interested in architecture and design and loved drawing and making models. My family and friends often complimented me on my creativity and hands-on skills as well, all of which predicted that I would become a designer in the future.

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

YZ : I am very hopeful about the future. I believe that with the development of technology and people's emphasis on environmental protection, design will become smarter and more sustainable. In one thousand years, human beings will live in an efficient, environmentally friendly, and harmonious world.

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

YZ : I want my fans to know that my love and pursuit of design is not limited to my profession, but a way of life. I have always been concerned with sustainability and am committed to making a positive contribution to society and the environment through design. I hope you will continue to support and follow my designs and work together to create a better future.