Interview with Tiange Wang and I-Yang Huang

Tiange Wang and I-Yang Huang ("TWAIH") interviewed on Thursday, 29 June.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

TWAIH : As experienced designers, we have spent years immersed in the realm of creativity and innovation. Our journey spans years of honing our craft, pushing boundaries, and leaving a mark on iconic companies and brands. We've had the privilege of collaborating with prominent industry leaders, working on groundbreaking projects in various domains, and witnessing the transformative power of design. With a solid educational foundation and a passion for excellence, we continue to thrive in the ever-evolving landscape of design, always seeking new challenges and opportunities to make a lasting impact.

How did you become a designer?

TWAIH : Our journey into the world of design was fueled by an insatiable curiosity and an innate desire to create something remarkable. From an early age, we found ourselves captivated by the power of design to shape experiences and evoke emotions. It was a fusion of inspiration from diverse sources, ranging from art and architecture to technology and nature, that sparked our passion for design. We embarked on a path of continuous learning, immersing ourselves in the study of design principles, pursuing educational opportunities, and gaining valuable work experience that shaped our understanding and expertise. The pursuit of excellence and the belief in the transformative potential of design served as the driving force behind our choice to become designers.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

TWAIH : When it comes to designing, we prioritize three key aspects: simplicity, innovation, and user-centricity. Simplicity is at the core of our approach, striving to distill complex ideas into elegant and intuitive solutions. Innovation is our driving force, constantly pushing boundaries to create groundbreaking and transformative experiences. We believe in designing with the end user in mind, placing their needs and desires at the forefront of our decision-making process. As for technique, we embrace both digital tools and hands-on exploration. We utilize the power of technology for precise design iterations, while also valuing the tactile experience of creating physical mock-ups and models. Each new project is approached with a blend of meticulous research, ideation, and iterative refinement, ensuring that every detail aligns with our vision and goals.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

TWAIH : When we dive into the world of design, a range of emotions courses through our veins. There's an undeniable excitement that accompanies the initial spark of an idea, as the possibilities unfurl before us like a captivating story waiting to be written. The journey of design itself is a rollercoaster, filled with moments of exhilaration, frustration, and profound satisfaction. Witnessing the transformation of an abstract concept into a tangible, functional, and beautiful creation brings us immense joy. Designing fulfills our innate desire to make a positive impact on the world, and the pleasure we derive from it stems from the ability to shape experiences and touch people's lives in meaningful ways.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

TWAIH : As designers, our creative journey is shaped not only by our design skills but also by a mosaic of diverse experiences and skills. A curious mind, fueled by a thirst for knowledge, allows us to explore different disciplines and draw inspiration from unexpected sources. The ability to think critically and problem-solve is crucial in navigating the complexities of design. Effective communication skills enable us to articulate our ideas and collaborate seamlessly with others. An unwavering passion and determination fuel our relentless pursuit of excellence. While our design skills form the foundation, it is the amalgamation of these non-design skills that amplifies our impact and shapes us into well-rounded designers. The biggest influence on our design work has been the relentless pursuit of simplicity, elegance, and user-centricity. This journey, driven by a passion for innovation and a deep appreciation for the intersection of technology and art, has propelled us forward, shaping our design philosophy and approach.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

TWAIH : Our growth path as designers is an ever-evolving journey. We strive to continually innovate, challenge norms, and redefine what's possible. Our future plans are deeply rooted in innovation and the pursuit of groundbreaking design experiences. We envision creating seamless integration between technology, art, and human-centric design. Our dream design project is one that transcends traditional boundaries, fusing aesthetics and functionality to create transformative experiences. We aspire to be remembered as pioneers who revolutionized industries, leaving a lasting legacy of design excellence. The future holds endless possibilities, and we are excited to embark on new adventures, shaping the world through our design vision.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

TWAIH : To young designers at the beginning of their career, we offer the following advice: Embrace failure as a stepping stone to success. Don't be afraid to take risks and think outside the box. Surround yourself with talented and diverse individuals who inspire and challenge you. Continuously learn and expand your knowledge, staying curious and open-minded. Seek mentorship and guidance from experienced professionals who can provide valuable insights. Develop a strong work ethic, persevere through challenges, and always strive for excellence. Embrace feedback and use it to fuel your growth. Most importantly, believe in yourself and your unique creative vision. The journey may have obstacles, but they are opportunities for growth and innovation.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

TWAIH : To fellow designers, artists, and architects, we suggest the following: Firstly, never stop learning. Embrace a growth mindset and constantly seek new inspiration. Secondly, prioritize user-centered design and focus on solving real problems. Understand the needs and desires of your audience and create experiences that resonate with them. Thirdly, pay attention to detail and strive for simplicity. Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Avoid clutter and complexity in your designs. Lastly, have the courage to stand by your vision and be persistent in bringing it to life. Trust your instincts and don't be afraid to challenge the status quo. Remember, great design is about making a difference in people's lives.

What is your day to day look like?

TWAIH : Our day-to-day routine revolves around a mix of creativity, collaboration, and strategic thinking. We begin our business mornings with a cup of inspiration, diving into design news, industry trends, and emerging technologies. We value the power of meaningful conversations, so we engage with our team, exchanging ideas and seeking feedback. Throughout the day, we immerse ourselves in the design process, sketching concepts, refining details, and challenging assumptions. We find joy in those "eureka" moments when a solution clicks into place. And when the day feels mundane, it's the little surprises—a clever design insight or a breakthrough idea—that reignite our excitement and keep us going.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

TWAIH : We believe in a delicate balance between staying informed about the latest design trends and maintaining our own distinct design style. While it's essential to be aware of current trends, we strive to create timeless designs that transcend passing fads. Our focus lies in understanding the fundamental principles of design, user needs, and future possibilities. Inspiration can be found in various sources: nature, art, technology, and even everyday life. By observing and analyzing the world around us, we extract insights that inform our design decisions. Ultimately, our aim is to create designs that are both relevant and enduring, standing the test of time.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

TWAIH : We believe that a well-designed product or project possesses several key qualities. Firstly, it should effectively fulfill its intended purpose, providing a seamless and intuitive user experience. Secondly, good design showcases a harmonious balance between form and function, blending aesthetics with practicality. It should evoke an emotional connection and delight the user. We assess a design's success through feedback and user testing, observing how it enhances people's lives and solves their problems. Common mistakes to avoid include prioritizing style over usability, neglecting user feedback, and compromising on quality. Ultimately, good design is about creating meaningful and impactful experiences that leave a lasting impression.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

TWAIH : Deciding if a design is ready is a complex process that requires careful consideration. While perfection may be elusive, there comes a point where we recognize that the design has achieved its intended goals and meets our high standards. We evaluate if it aligns with our vision, meets user needs, and embodies the essence of our brand. User feedback and testing play a crucial role in this decision-making process. We strive for continuous improvement, but there comes a time when we must acknowledge that a design is ready to be shared with the world. Success is determined by how well the design resonates with users, solves their problems, and creates a positive impact on their lives.

What is your biggest design work?

TWAIH : Our biggest design work is a culmination of our vision, dedication, and passion. It's challenging to pinpoint a single project as our biggest because each design endeavor presents its own unique opportunities and obstacles. However, there are projects that hold a special place in our hearts. These are the ones where we ventured into unknown, disrupted industries, and created products that had a profound impact on people's lives. The key aspects of our biggest projects are their innovative nature, seamless integration of technology and design, and their ability to evoke an emotional connection with users. We are constantly working on exciting projects that explore new frontiers of design and technology, seeking to create meaningful experiences for our customers.

Who is your favourite designer?

TWAIH : As designers ourselves, we find inspiration in the work of many talented individuals. It's difficult to choose a single favorite designer, as there are so many brilliant minds who have contributed to the world of design. However, we greatly admire the works of design legends such as Dieter Rams, who exemplified the principles of simplicity and functionality, and Charles and Ray Eames, who revolutionized furniture design. If given the opportunity, we would love to have a conversation with the late great Leonardo da Vinci, whose interdisciplinary approach and visionary ideas continue to inspire generations. The most iconic designer of all time is subjective, but we believe that those who have made a lasting impact on our understanding of good design are the ones who deserve our utmost admiration.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

TWAIH : Our lifestyle and culture greatly influence our design philosophy. We believe that a well-designed environment can have a profound impact on our daily lives. While we don't have a specific favorite city, we find inspiration in the vibrant energy and creative spirit of east coast cities. Music plays an integral role in our creative process, as it helps stimulate our imagination and set the mood for ideation. Our culture shapes our design projects by infusing them with elements of our heritage and values. Currently, we are working on several exciting projects that surpass the standard of technology and innovation. Good design is essential for the advancement of society as it enhances functionality, improves user experiences, and promotes sustainability. Personally, we have embraced design thinking in our own lives, making small but positive changes to optimize efficiency and create a more harmonious living environment.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

TWAIH : Our work culture is driven by a passion for excellence and innovation. We believe in fostering a collaborative and dynamic environment that encourages creativity and tests the limits. While we value individual contributions, we also recognize the power of teamwork and often work alongside talented partners who share our vision. Working with us can be challenging, as we strive for perfection and constantly push ourselves to deliver groundbreaking solutions. When selecting business partners or hiring individuals, we seek those who are not only highly skilled but also possess a deep sense of dedication, a growth mindset, and a relentless pursuit of quality. In our profession, the core challenges lie in balancing creativity with practicality, anticipating and meeting the ever-evolving needs of our customers, and staying ahead of the curve in a rapidly changing landscape. Our job responsibilities encompass envisioning and executing innovative designs, overseeing the development process, and ensuring that our products or projects align with our design philosophy and values. A good designer, artist, or architect should possess a strong creative vision, attention to detail, problem-solving skills, adaptability, and the ability to effectively communicate and collaborate with others.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

TWAIH : As a designer, artist, and architect, we believe in giving back to the community and making a positive impact on society. We have actively engaged in philanthropic endeavors to support various causes. While we primarily focus on our core design work, we have also taken on pro bono design projects to contribute to humanitarian efforts. We recognize the importance of artists, designers, and architects involving themselves in projects that address social and environmental challenges. We actively participate in design events and conferences to share knowledge, inspire young designers, and provide opportunities for growth and development within our team. Supporting and nurturing talent is crucial for the future of design.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

TWAIH : Attending the A' Design Award was a truly remarkable experience for us as designers. Firstly, it provided an excellent platform to showcase our work and gain recognition in the design community. The exposure and visibility that comes with winning or being nominated for an award are invaluable. Secondly, participating in design awards and competitions challenges us to expanding the creative horizons and continuously improve our skills. The feedback and critique received from experts help us improve the proposals.

Tiange Wang and I-Yang Huang Profile