Interview with Fang Xu, Xuan Shen, Yongwen Dai

Fang Xu, Xuan Shen, Yongwen Dai ("FXXSYD") interviewed on Wednesday, 28 May.

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

FXXSYD : We are a three-person design team with backgrounds in architecture, design, and emerging technologies. Collectively, we have over a decade of experience exploring the intersections of spatial design, user experience, and sustainability. Our journey spans academic research, experimental design projects, and applied digital solutions. While Sharge is our first major public product, it reflects years of accumulated knowledge, design thinking, and a shared commitment to addressing real-world challenges through meaningful design.

How did you become a designer?

FXXSYD : Our paths to design stem from a shared curiosity about how systems—whether cities, buildings, or digital tools—can improve human lives. Trained as architects, we were drawn to the complexity and potential of design to influence behavior, solve problems, and create impact. Transitioning into digital design felt natural: we wanted to work at the cutting edge of technology and sustainability, translating physical space thinking into user-centered digital products. Our choice to pursue design was driven by an inner belief that thoughtful design is a force for positive change.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

FXXSYD : Our priorities are clarity, impact, and inclusivity. We always focus on: 1. User Experience: Ensuring designs are intuitive, accessible, and solve real problems. 2. System Thinking: Seeing design as part of a larger ecosystem, where every decision influences behavior and sustainability. 3. Sustainability: Designing for long-term impact rather than quick fixes. We combine digital tools like Figma and React Native with traditional sketching, prototyping, and iterative feedback. Our approach is collaborative—ideas are challenged, refined, and tested repeatedly. Our style is minimalist, system-oriented, and grounded in purpose.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

FXXSYD : Designing fills us with excitement, responsibility, and a sense of possibility. The most thrilling moments come when abstract ideas start taking shape—when sketches turn into interfaces, and user feedback sparks new insights. We feel deeply fulfilled when a design solution not only works but also resonates emotionally with users. The journey itself—the iterative process, the challenges, the breakthroughs—is where we find the most joy.

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

FXXSYD : Our architectural training gave us a foundation in spatial thinking, problem-solving, and balancing aesthetics with function. Beyond design, we’ve developed skills in research, collaboration, and strategic communication—skills essential for translating user needs into impactful solutions. Our cultural backgrounds also instilled an appreciation for harmony, resilience, and collective responsibility, shaping how we approach every design challenge.

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

FXXSYD : Our growth path is about expanding Sharge into a widely adopted platform, continuously improving its features, and developing complementary projects that further clean energy adoption. Long-term, we aim to lead a design studio focused on creating systems that empower communities, promote sustainability, and spark positive change. Our dream project is to design a holistic platform that integrates clean energy, urban mobility, and community well-being into a single, accessible ecosystem.

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

FXXSYD : Be patient, stay curious, and embrace complexity. Don’t rush for quick wins—deep understanding and thoughtful design take time. Collaborate, seek feedback, and never design in isolation. Most importantly, remember that design is not just about visuals—it’s about solving problems that matter.

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

FXXSYD : Always design with purpose and integrity. Avoid chasing trends for the sake of popularity—instead, focus on long-term impact. Embrace feedback as a tool for growth, and don’t be afraid to take risks in service of a bigger vision. Build systems, not just objects. Be an advocate for inclusivity and sustainability in everything you design.

What is your day to day look like?

FXXSYD : Our day starts with a team sync—sharing goals, blockers, and ideas. Mornings are for deep design work—prototyping, testing, and iterating. Afternoons often involve collaboration, user feedback sessions, and research. We find joy in small moments—like a breakthrough idea, positive user feedback, or refining a tricky interface element. Even in a routine day, the sense of progress keeps us motivated.

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

FXXSYD : We stay informed about trends through industry publications, conferences, and conversations with other designers. However, trends are not our primary guide—we design for long-term impact, not seasonal aesthetics. That said, being aware of trends helps us make informed decisions and ensures our solutions remain relevant. Our core inspiration comes from user needs, sustainability challenges, and cross-disciplinary research.

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

FXXSYD : Good design solves real problems, resonates with users, and scales sustainably. We look for clarity, purpose, and seamless interaction. A project feels "right" when users can achieve their goals effortlessly and when the design feels almost invisible—working in the background to make life better.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

FXXSYD : A design is ready when it meets user needs, aligns with our vision, and has been validated through testing. We believe no design is ever truly "final"—there’s always room for iteration—but there comes a point where it’s ready for the world. We release with confidence, knowing we’ll keep learning and evolving based on real-world use.

What is your biggest design work?

FXXSYD : Sharge is our most significant project to date. It’s a culmination of our values, expertise, and aspirations—a platform that addresses a critical need for accessible EV charging. Sharge reflects our belief that design can transform infrastructure, empower communities, and contribute to a greener future.

Who is your favourite designer?

FXXSYD : One of our favorite designers is Peter Zumthor. We are deeply inspired by the purity and focus in his design philosophy. His work embodies a quiet intensity—free from excess—where every detail is intentional and meaningful. We admire how he creates deeply atmospheric spaces through thoughtful use of materials, light, and texture. His ability to stay true to his vision and craft reminds us to pursue clarity, depth, and purpose in our own design process.

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

FXXSYD : Our team comes from China and is now based in the United States, where we embrace a diverse and inclusive lifestyle. We enjoy the richness that comes from blending cultures and perspectives, both in our work and daily lives. Outside of work, we value a balanced lifestyle—one that stays close to nature, encourages creativity, and supports personal well-being.

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

FXXSYD : Our work culture is built on trust, openness, and shared purpose. We challenge ideas, not people, and value feedback as a tool for growth. We seek collaborators who are mission-driven, curious, and resilient. For us, design is not just about deliverables—it’s about creating meaningful impact, together.

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

FXXSYD : We believe in using design as a force for good. We engage in pro bono initiatives that support sustainability, accessibility, and education. We’re also committed to mentoring young designers and sharing knowledge through talks, workshops, and open-source resources. For us, giving back is an integral part of being a designer.

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

FXXSYD : Participating in the A' Design Award has been an incredibly rewarding experience. It has given us international recognition, helped us connect with a global community of designers, and opened doors to new opportunities. The three main benefits of participating in design awards are: 1. Visibility: Showcasing your work on a global stage. 2. Validation: Receiving feedback and recognition from an esteemed jury. 3. Growth: Learning from other designs, disciplines, and cultures. Design competitions like the A' Design Award push the boundaries of creativity and help elevate the profession. Being recognized as a Designer of the Day is an honor that motivates us to continue creating work that serves people and the planet.

Fang Xu, Xuan Shen, Yongwen Dai Profile