Interview with Pengfei He

Pengfei He ("PH") interviewed on Saturday, 24 May.

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

PH : He Pengfei Design Director of Shanghai L&A Design Group Co., Ltd. Chief Architect of Simer Architectural Engineering Design Co., Ltd. National First-Class Registered Architect of China Senior Member of the Architectural Society of China Senior Engineer Mr. He Pengfei graduated from the School of Architecture of Zhengzhou University. As a professional who has been deeply engaged in the architectural design industry for 17 years, he possesses profound professional knowledge and keen industry insights. He has always adhered to the pursuit of excellent design and is committed to promoting the in-depth integration of architecture and art.

How did you become a designer?

PH : When I was a child, I watched an interview with the renowned Chinese-American architect I.M. Pei. I was deeply impressed by the Louvre Pyramid designed by Mr. Pei, and since then, I have been fascinated by architectural design. I hope to become a great architect like him in the future.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

PH : The design of top architects is a multi - dimensional balance of "function × technology × humanity": starting from user needs and social values, breaking through physical boundaries with innovative technologies, and finally interpreting the deep relationship between architecture and nature, as well as between people and cities with a unique stylistic language (either implicit or avant - garde). This makes the works not only have the 前瞻性 (forward - looking nature) of the times but also bear the sustainable values of culture and ecology.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

PH : When designing, I feel the thrill of inspired ideas, focus on refining details, and a sense of achievement when projects come to life. The design journey excites me most. I love solving problems with creativity and seeing ideas materialize, finding happiness in creating value and aesthetic resonance, and enjoying the fun of breakthroughs and exploration.

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

PH : My background in psychology and anthropology deeply shapes my design approach, emphasizing empathy and cultural context. Non-design skills like critical thinking (solves complex problems), effective communication (aligns stakeholders), and adaptability (navigates evolving client needs) are pivotal. Storytelling, rooted in literature, helps me craft narratives within designs.

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

PH : For designers starting their careers: stay curious and keep learning. Master foundational tools, but also study psychology, sociology, or art to fuel creativity. Observe daily life—design solutions often hide in ordinary needs. Embrace feedback; it refines ideas and builds resilience. Don’t fear failure; every misstep teaches. Build a portfolio showcasing process, not just results, to highlight critical thinking. Finally, stay passionate—design thrives on those who care deeply about solving problems and creating meaningful experiences. Persist, and let your unique perspective shine.

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

PH : True success as a designer is creating meaningful experiences that solve problems and inspire. For peers: stay curious, embrace challenges, prioritize user needs, and balance technology with humanity. Let purpose drive your craft.

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

PH : I follow design blogs, attend industry talks, and engage with platforms like Behance. Trends inspire me, but I prioritize timeless functionality and user needs. They influence my process as a source of fresh ideas, not rigid rules.

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

PH : A well-designed product/project meets user needs seamlessly, enhances experience, and solves problems efficiently. Good design balances functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability, while being intuitive, timeless, and emotionally resonant. It’s honest, ethical, and improves lives subtly yet meaningfully.

Who is your favourite designer?

PH : My favorite work is the Louvre Pyramid designed by I.M. Pei. It has a modern appearance, combining glass and metal, with smooth lines and transparent light. Although its style contrasts with the ancient Louvre, it is magically integrated, setting off the elegance of the historical building. As the main entrance, it optimizes the flow of people. The underground space creates rich light and shadow effects through the light. It is extremely charming both during the day and at night, and it is a model in terms of aesthetics, functionality, and cultural integration, having a profound influence.

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

PH : I embrace a minimalist lifestyle, blending nature and technology—often drawing inspiration from travel and observing daily rhythms. Culturally, I’m rooted in Eastern philosophy’s harmony with nature, fused with global design influences. This fuels my focus on sustainable, human-centric solutions that marry simplicity with depth.

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

PH : I contribute through pro bono projects like designing affordable housing for underserved communities and public spaces for social inclusion. I also advocate for sustainable design, mentoring emerging designers on ethical practices to create equitable, eco-friendly solutions that uplift society.

Pengfei He Profile