Interview with Yinghua Lu

Yinghua Lu ("YL") interviewed on Tuesday, 9 July.

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

YL : Hi, this is Yinghua Lu, and I am a footwear designer. My journey started with a solid foundation in product design from ArtCenter, where I honed my skills in the intricate process of footwear creation.Throughout my career, I've had the chance to contribute to projects for globally recognized brands such as ANTA and ADIDAS. Recently, I was honored to receive Reddot award design concept, NY product design award, and Muse design award for my innovative creek shoe design, HYPEX. This recognition not only underscores my commitment to blending functionality with fashion but also highlights my passion for pushing the boundaries of design in the dynamic world of footwear.

How did you become a designer?

YL : My journey into design began with a passion for footwear and a desire to blend creativity with practicality. I pursued a product design education at ArtCenter, which provided me with foundational skills. Influenced by my Chinese heritage's emphasis on detail and storytelling, I'm driven to create impactful designs that resonate emotionally and functionally with users. This passion continues to inspire my career in design.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

YL : I prioritize functionality, aesthetic appeal, and user experience in my design process. These aspects ensure that my designs not only look good but also serve their intended purpose effectively. I integrate a narrative or storytelling element into each project, drawing on my cultural background for inspiration. I rely heavily on digital tools and technology for designing, using software like Adobe Creative Suite and 3D modeling software for prototyping. While I begin with digital sketches and renderings, I also value physical mock-ups and models to refine and validate my concepts. My approach to a new project involves thorough research, concept ideation, and iterative refinement to achieve innovative and impactful design solutions.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

YL : Designing evokes a blend of excitement, curiosity, and satisfaction for me. The initial ideation phase is particularly thrilling, as it sparks creativity and sets the foundation for the entire project. Throughout the design journey, the process of refining ideas, overcoming challenges, and seeing concepts materialize into tangible products or projects brings a profound sense of fulfillment. What I enjoy most about designing is the ability to translate abstract ideas into concrete solutions that enhance people's lives. This process not only fulfills my creative instincts but also allows me to contribute meaningfully to the world around me. The pleasure I derive from designing stems from the intersection of artistry, functionality, and the potential impact of my creations on others.

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

YL : Designing evokes a blend of excitement, curiosity, and satisfaction for me. The initial ideation phase is particularly thrilling, as it sparks creativity and sets the foundation for the entire project. Throughout the design journey, refining ideas, overcoming challenges, and seeing concepts materialize into tangible products or projects bring a profound sense of fulfillment. What I enjoy most about designing is the ability to translate abstract ideas into concrete solutions that enhance people's lives. This process not only fulfills my creative instincts but also allows me to contribute meaningfully to the world around me. The pleasure I derive from designing stems from the intersection of artistry, functionality, and the potential impact of my creations on others.

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

YL : As a designer, my growth path involves continually honing my skills, expanding my portfolio, and exploring new creative challenges. In the future, I aim to establish my own design studio that blends innovation with sustainable practices, aiming to leave a positive mark on the industry. I dream of leading projects that seamlessly integrate art, technology, and functionality to address global issues and enhance human experiences. My ultimate goal is to be remembered as a visionary who revolutionized design by creating meaningful and impactful solutions that resonate with people's lives.

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

YL : I am still a young person so probably can not have words to say to them but I always tell myself: your passion will indeed be your driving force. Stay focused on honing your skills, seeking inspiration, and pushing the boundaries of creativity in your designs.

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

YL : To achieve sustained success in design, artists, architects, and designers should prioritize understanding the end-user deeply and solving real-world problems effectively. Avoid the pitfall of prioritizing style over substance; instead, focus on creating impactful solutions that resonate with users. Cultivate strong communication skills to collaborate effectively with clients and teams, leveraging feedback to refine designs iteratively. Stay adaptable and proactive in adopting new technologies and trends, while also maintaining a distinctive creative voice that sets you apart in the industry. Always uphold ethical standards and strive for sustainability in your designs to create meaningful impact.

What is your day to day look like?

YL : My day typically begins early with a review of current design trends and industry news. I find this helps me stay informed and inspired. Throughout the day, I engage in meetings with stakeholders, discussing ongoing projects and ensuring alignment on design goals. I cherish those moments of creativity when ideas flow effortlessly, and I can dive deep into the design process. Even on routine days, I find joy in small victories—like solving a challenging design problem or receiving positive feedback on a project. These moments fuel my passion and keep me motivated throughout the workday.

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

YL : I keep up with the latest design trends through various sources such as fashion magazines, trend forecasting websites, and attending design exhibitions and conferences. While staying informed about trends is important for understanding market demands and consumer preferences, I prioritize maintaining my own design style and vision. I aim to strike a balance between incorporating current trends and infusing my designs with unique elements that reflect my creative perspective. Inspiration for me comes from diverse sources—nature, cultural influences, and advancements in technology—all of which contribute to shaping my innovative approach to design.

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

YL : Good design, to me, hinges on functionality, aesthetics, and user experience. It must effectively solve a problem or fulfill a need while being visually appealing and intuitive to use. The "aha!" moment occurs when these elements converge seamlessly, balancing form with function and incorporating thoughtful details. Common pitfalls to avoid include prioritizing style over substance and neglecting user feedback or practical considerations like manufacturability. A successful design, for me, exceeds expectations by innovating, enhancing usability, connecting emotionally with users, and embodying sustainability principles.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

YL : Deciding when a design is ready is a delicate balance of intuition and practicality. I aim for a point where the design meets its intended purpose flawlessly, resonates with users emotionally, and satisfies technical and aesthetic criteria. While a design can always be improved, there comes a moment when further iterations yield diminishing returns or disrupt project timelines. Feedback from stakeholders and user testing play pivotal roles in finalizing a design, guiding decisions on when to wrap up. Success for me is validated by positive user feedback, meeting business objectives, and seeing the design embraced in the market.

What is your biggest design work?

YL : One of my most significant design works is the HYPEX Creek shoe project. It blends outdoor functionality with hypebeast style, aiming to cater to both adventurers and fashion-forward individuals. The project involved thorough research, sketching, and prototyping with 3D modeling software to achieve a secure, ergonomic design with quick-dry materials and customizable fit options. Overcoming challenges in balancing technical performance with fashion appeal, HYPEX has been satisfying due to its positive reception and innovative features. Currently, I'm excited about new projects focusing on sustainable materials and innovative design approaches in footwear.

Who is your favourite designer?

YL : Tiffany Beers, she is known for her significant contributions to the footwear industry, particularly in innovation and product design. She's widely recognized for her work at Nike, where she was involved in the development of iconic products like the Nike MAG and Nike HyperAdapt. Her expertise in integrating technology and design has made her a notable figure in the field.

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

YL : So far I am based in LA. As a Chinese, I am influenced by the subtle and reserved nature of Chinese culture. Just like kung fu, which uses softness to overcome hardness. My cultural background leads me to pay attention to details while focusing on engaging content. This aspect greatly aids me in storytelling because captivating narratives are often filled with intricate details that invite careful examination.

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

YL : In my work culture, collaboration and innovation are key. I often work with teams, emphasizing clear communication and creativity. When selecting partners or hiring, I value expertise, dedication, and alignment with ethical values. Core challenges include balancing creativity with commercial viability and keeping pace with industry trends. Responsibilities include design development, project management, and ensuring alignment with brand goals. Essential traits for designers include creativity, problem-solving skills, attention to detail, and a passion for innovation.

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

YL : As a designer, I believe that people giving back through mentorship and supporting young talents. I actively participate in design events and conferences to share insights and foster creativity. I'm open to pro bono work that aligns with humanitarian causes, seeing design as a tool for positive impact. Good design, to me, blends functionality with aesthetic appeal, enhancing everyday experiences. I encourage opportunities for growth and collaboration among designers, artists, and architects to nurture creativity and innovation.

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

YL : Participating in and winning such prestigious awards can be incredibly rewarding and beneficial for a designer. Firstly, winning provides significant recognition and visibility within the design community and beyond, helping to establish credibility and attract new opportunities. Secondly, it offers valuable feedback and critique from industry experts, which can enhance design skills and encourage continuous improvement. Lastly, awards like A’ Design contribute to career advancement by opening doors to collaborations, exhibitions, and media exposure, ultimately boosting professional growth and networking opportunities. Being named Designer of the Day is a testament to design talent and hard work, underscoring the impact and innovation in the design world. It's a moment to celebrate achievements and inspire others in the field.

Yinghua Lu Profile