Weiche Wu

Specialized in Packaging Design.

Weiche Wu

About Weiche Wu

Weiche Wu is a Taiwanese designer. He studied Industrial Design at Chang Gung University in Taiwan and received his MA in Industrial Design from Central St. Martins, London. In addition to product design, Weiche also specialises in graphic design, photography and critical design thinking. His expertise lies in shaping products in a very visual way, which in short means designing with a priority on aesthetics. In 2011, Weiche worked with the French company, Rémy Martin, to generate a new concept for their heritage Louis XIII brand. The final outcome ’Cérémonie pour un Roi’ and ‘L'essence de Rémy Martin’ have been featured at MAISON & OBJECT in Paris, Salone in Milan, Wallpaper Magazine and in other global media. Upon graduation from Central St. Martins, he joined Benjamin Hubert’s studio in London and participated in several iconic projects such as ‘Tenda’ lamp and ‘Construction Site’ in 2012 Designjunction. In 2013, he founded Taipei based Union Atelier. The studio works on varying design commissions and collaborations; and with the deliberate intention to combine international design trends with Taiwanese traditions, the team has created, and consistently applies, their own unique signature design language.

  • Winner of the A' Design Award.
  • Specialized in Packaging Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Packaging
Reshock Coffee Product Packaging

Reshock Coffee Product Packaging

Packaging Design


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Interview with Weiche Wu

Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
I have a background in Industrial Design, having graduated from an Industrial Design program in Taiwan. Later, I pursued my studies at Central St Martins in London, where I completed an MA in Industrial Design. I co-founded Union Atelier with Minhan Lin in 2013. Since then, we have been involved in various design projects, including brand design, graphic design, packaging design, commercial space design, and interior design. I believe that all design disciplines are interconnected, and I aim to utilize my expertise to assist clients in accomplishing various projects and enhancing the value of products or services across different industries.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
Union Atelier offers a range of diverse design services to clients, including brand design, packaging design, and commercial space design. We firmly believe that comprehensive design integration can greatly enhance the value of the industries our clients operate in. Our designs not only incorporate an international perspective but also integrate local culture, allowing our work to be distinctive and innovative.
What is "design" for you?
Design is a very broad industry that can be approached from various perspectives, but the ultimate goal is to bring us joy and make our daily lives better.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I enjoy the challenges brought by various industries, ranging from brand design, packaging design to spatial design. I believe that each design project is fascinating in its own way, and collaboration often leads to different inspirations and ideas. I embrace the challenges encountered in the design process and find great satisfaction in working together with my design team to overcome them, ensuring that the final outcome is presented flawlessly. Therefore, I don't have a specific preference for a particular design category, but I thoroughly enjoy the sense of accomplishment that comes with completing each project.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
Many works are exceptionally outstanding, so it's difficult for me to say which one is my favorite. I believe that any design created with dedication and meeting the needs is a good design. The works of many renowned designers continue to impress people even after many years, precisely because these works not only possess beauty but also align closely with users' expectations and needs. It is this alignment that gives these works their timeless quality.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
Before embarking on each design project, I make it a point to clearly understand the purpose of the design, the project requirements, and the expectations of the consumers because it is crucial. Every design has its purpose, and understanding these objectives fully is what enables the design outcome to be truly captivating. Therefore, our design team invests a significant amount of time in conducting research and gathering relevant data prior to the design process. This allows us to analyze how each design case can be approached and executed effectively.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
Recently, I have developed an affinity for eco-friendly paper materials. These materials often exhibit unique flaws and imperfections on their surfaces, which I find irresistible. These distinctive qualities add a richer and more diverse appearance to the final work. Not only are these eco-friendly materials environmentally friendly, but they also infuse the work with a sense of storytelling.
When do you feel the most creative?
Many people enjoy doing design work late at night, but recently, I've discovered that I often get a surge of inspiration when I go for an early morning run. It could be because during my run, my mind is free from any pressure, and the surroundings often provide different sources of inspiration. Therefore, when I encounter obstacles in certain projects, I like to engage in physical exercise to release stress and find new inspiration.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
In addition to the importance of design concepts, I prioritize the use of materials. Utilizing different materials to express the same design technique often leads to completely different outcomes. Sometimes, even if the design concept itself is not particularly outstanding, using unique materials can create new and intriguing effects. I believe that materials play a crucial role in enhancing the visual and tactile qualities of a design, allowing it to stand out and make a lasting impression.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
During the design process, I always carry a sense of joy because good design is meant to bring optimism and a positive mood to consumers. As a designer, it is important to approach design projects with empathy and understanding, aiming to create designs that evoke such feelings. By putting ourselves in the shoes of the consumers, we can better align our designs with their needs and emotions. Ultimately, the goal is to create designs that uplift and resonate with people, enhancing their overall experience and leaving a positive impact.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
If consumers notice and appreciate the details in my designs, or if they find them to be useful, it gives me a great sense of accomplishment. Knowing that my work can bring color and enhance their lives is incredibly rewarding. It means that I have successfully contributed to making their everyday experiences more enjoyable and meaningful. The ability to positively impact people through design is one of the most fulfilling aspects of being a designer.
What makes a design successful?
Design does not have an absolute right answer; it is about finding the most suitable design that brings more beauty to people's lives.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
Design has no absolute right answer; it's about creating designs that are suitable and bring more beauty to people's lives. It's a subjective field that adapts to diverse preferences and requirements. The goal is to design solutions that resonate with users, evoke emotions, and enhance functionality. The iterative process allows for exploration, refinement, and consideration of various factors. Ultimately, successful design makes a positive impact and enriches the human experience.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
I believe that good design should not only bring joy and convenience to consumers' lives but also address environmental issues. As these issues become increasingly severe, it is important for us as designers to be mindful of the impact our designs have on the environment. While design often promotes consumption on behalf of clients, it is crucial to consider environmental sustainability as part of our design responsibility. By incorporating eco-friendly practices, materials, and approaches into our designs, we can contribute to a more sustainable future and fulfill our duty as designers.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
I believe that the design industry, in addition to creating aesthetically pleasing products for consumers, is now incorporating stories and issues into design works. Designers are using their skills to prompt reflection among the public on various topics, including social issues, economic concerns, and environmental challenges. They aspire to leverage their creative power to convey positive messages to the masses. By introducing these design concepts, designers aim to raise awareness and provoke thoughts on issues that may have gone unnoticed or unexplored before.
When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
I haven't participated in an exhibition for many years since my collaboration with a bicycle accessories brand from France. We showcased our creation at the Milan Salone exhibition alongside various designers and artists. Due to the recent impact of the pandemic, there have been limited opportunities for design exchange activities. However, I am planning to seek out exhibition opportunities again in the near future.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
I often seek inspiration from Eastern culture, Asian culture, and Taiwanese culture as they possess unique characteristics. These cultural influences often spark creative ideas when combined with modern design, leading to the creation of distinct and innovative works. By drawing from these cultural elements, I aim to infuse my designs with a sense of authenticity and create something truly unique.
How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
My works often blend modern design with traditional cultural perspectives. I strive to interpret these complex cultural concepts with a minimalist and sleek approach. When using traditional culture as inspiration, extensive research is crucial to fully understand its meanings, purposes, and values. This involves delving into the history, heritage, customs, and legends of the culture. Through such research, we can better comprehend and respect the culture and seamlessly integrate it into our design. During the creative process, I endeavor to convey stories and emotions through design, allowing the audience to perceive the underlying significance of the artwork. Through meticulous attention to detail and carefully selected elements, I aim to create an interactive experience where viewers can resonate and emotionally connect with the artwork. Ultimately, I aspire for my works to offer more than just visual aesthetics, but also deep cultural experiences and contemplation. I believe that integrating modern design with traditional culture can inspire people's interest and understanding of different cultures, while providing a unique and enriching design experience.
Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
I live in Taipei, Taiwan. This city combines a mix of old and new elements. It features traditional Taiwanese temples, city gates, old houses, and streets, alongside modern high-rise buildings and shopping malls. The diverse environment often inspires me with different design ideas, making my work more interesting and storytelling. However, considering the conservative social norms, some clients may have a lower acceptance of avant-garde designs. Therefore, it becomes crucial to communicate and persuade clients to embrace innovative design approaches.
How do you work with companies?
I usually start by listening to the client's needs and understanding the purpose, target audience, and desired outcome of the project. Through this process, our team can propose effective design methods and strategies and set clear design goals. Good design is not just about producing visually appealing results; the design's purpose is also crucial. Therefore, through research and analysis, we can find the most suitable design approaches and directions.
What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
Good designers often possess the ability to think independently. While having strong design skills is essential, experienced designers can typically produce visually appealing works. However, senior designers with critical thinking abilities tend to clarify the purpose of a project first. They are skilled at identifying the appropriate design approaches before diving into the actual design process. This is because blindly proposing designs without thoughtful consideration usually does not lead to the most ideal design outcomes.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
My design process consists of several steps. Firstly, I begin by understanding the purpose of the design, the target audience, and the desired outcomes. Secondly, I engage in extensive data collection and research to fully grasp all the relevant information. Next, I collaborate with my design team to perform activities such as mind mapping and brainstorming to generate design inspiration, explore materials, and techniques. Finally, I proceed with comprehensive design planning to deliver a complete design project.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
Lights and dining chairs are always the most important design pieces in my home. Lighting design is constantly evolving and can represent the taste of the inhabitants. On the other hand, classic dining chair designs are timeless, practical, and durable. Following that, the design of sofas, coffee tables, and dining tables also holds significance in my home.
Can you describe a day in your life?
In the morning, I always have breakfast with my family and children. I enjoy this time by playing my favorite music and sipping a cup of self-brewed coffee. During the day, we love to go outdoors and enjoy nature. In the evening, we often go to the supermarket together to buy groceries and then return home to prepare dinner. I love cooking together with my wife and preparing meals for our children. The kitchen and dining area are the heart of our home and family life.
Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
Observing our surroundings, experiencing life, and interacting with people are crucial aspects of a designer's life. Our design works are meant to integrate into people's lives and enhance their experiences. Therefore, it is essential for us to empathize with users and consider every detail, as these details are key to the success of our creations.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
Designers always pay attention to various details in life and have a keen sense of observation, which makes them meticulous in everything they do. However, when it comes to shopping, designers often prioritize well-designed products, which can increase their expenses.
What is your "golden rule" in design?
I often refer to Dieter Rams' 10 principles of design, which serves as a guideline for me to evaluate my own designs. I believe that these principles showcase the design experience of a master, and they serve as a goal for young designers to aspire to and strive for higher levels of design excellence.
What skills are most important for a designer?
I believe that possessing good design skills is the fundamental requirement for a designer, followed by the abilities of independent thinking and observation. With these abilities, designers can create not only aesthetically pleasing designs but also enhance the lives of users by making them more convenient and enjoyable.
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
I often start by sketching design ideas in my portable notebook because inspiration can strike anytime, anywhere. Having a notebook with me is incredibly practical. Once I'm in the studio, I share my design inspirations with team members, and together we use computer software to create definitive designs. We frequently use Adobe software in our studio as it offers powerful functionality to bring our ideas to life. When gathering information, I like to use Pinterest to collect inspiration, and I use Trello to communicate with other team members, exchange information, and track progress.
Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
When our studio has multiple projects running concurrently, I gather with team members to review the timelines for each project. We work on all projects simultaneously, ensuring that each stage is completed on time. Designing a perfect piece of work in one go is not feasible, so I ask team members to achieve 80% completion on one project before moving on to others. Once all projects are at a similar stage, we come back and gradually elevate each piece to 100%. This approach ensures that all projects progress at the same pace and that no project lags behind.
How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
The timeline for each project depends on its nature and content. Typically, we discuss with the client how much time we have for the design phase of each project, and then we plan the progress of each project accordingly. In general, commercial projects tend to have tighter timelines, with a project needing to be completed within six months. This is because clients often face pressure to launch or present their products. Therefore, careful attention must be paid to the timeline arrangement in such cases.
What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
I often ask clients, "What is the purpose of executing this project?" because we need a clear direction to proceed with the design. Design is not created out of thin air; there is always a reason behind it. By fully understanding the purpose of the project, we can develop design strategies and techniques that align with it. This approach allows us to design works that meet the requirements and fulfill the intended objectives.
What was your most important job experience?
I once worked for a startup company where I experienced the growth of the team, encountered various challenges, and eventually saw the team being acquired. This experience has provided me with valuable insights and knowledge that I can now apply to running my own business. As a designer-turned-entrepreneur, I've come to realize that there is more to consider beyond just design. It's not just about creating good designs; having effective business strategies and management practices are equally important. The key to running a successful studio lies in maximizing the productivity and efficiency of the design team, and that has become the core focus of my studio's operations.
Who are some of your clients?
The clients I have are: Reshock Coffee in Taiwan, Mama Cane in Taiwan, Nespresso in Taiwan, Boffotto Ltd in Hong Kong, Sunlight Tea Studio in the USA, John Tea Company in Taiwan, Pizza Marzano in China, and Pizza Express in China etc.
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
I enjoy working on brand design projects because we have the opportunity to build a complete brand from scratch. From brand name, brand story, logo design, packaging design, product sales models, advertising strategies, to commercial space design, we cover the entire design process. Through this comprehensive design process, we can assist clients in establishing a complete brand framework and launch it into the market. When a complete brand design project is completed, we always feel a special excitement and sense of accomplishment. We can't wait to see the response of the new brand in the market.
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
I have been working in brand design for 10 years, but the truth is, I studied industrial design during my student years. I still have a dream of pursuing furniture design, and I hope to one day create my own furniture brand.
Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
All of my designs are completed in collaboration with the members of Union Atelier. I have a strong design team that is capable of executing various design tasks for clients. With the help of our professional design team, we ensure that every detail of the design is implemented and that the project is executed with completeness. Clients can trust us to handle their projects with confidence.
Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
Recently, our studio has been working on some exciting projects in the food and beverage industry, including branding, packaging design, and creating the overall atmosphere of restaurants. Restaurant design projects often offer more creative freedom and fewer constraints. We are able to showcase our bold and unconventional design ideas because this type of project requires injecting a lot of creativity to attract customers. Clients always encourage us to unleash our creativity and explore various design techniques to make their establishments stand out.
How can people contact you?
Welcome to the official website of Union Atelier: unionatelier.com. You can find our complete portfolio of work there. We are also open to new design projects, so feel free to reach out to us!
Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
Design is an industry that requires a great deal of passion. I hope that every designer can shine brightly in this field!

Designer of the Day Interview with Weiche Wu

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
In 2013, Minhan Lin and I co-founded Union Atelier, specializing in brand design, graphic design, and commercial space design. With 10 years of professional experience in the field of brand design, we have worked with various clients in the food and beverage industry, healthcare brands, and small and medium-sized enterprises. Some of our clients include Reshock Coffee in Taiwan, Mama Cane in Taiwan, Nespresso in Taiwan, Boffotto Ltd in Hong Kong, Sunlight Tea Studio in the USA, John Tea Company in Taiwan, Pizza Marzano in China, and Pizza Express in China, among others. From 2015 to 2021, I also taught in the Industrial Design department at Chang Guang University, serving as an industry instructor and graduation project advisor. Prior to establishing Union Atelier, I had worked in furniture design companies and technology startups, holding various design positions.
How did you become a designer?
I have had a passion for drawing and creating since I was young, and after discovering the design industry, I became greatly interested in becoming a designer. During my college years, I studied Industrial Design in Taiwan. Throughout the learning process, I found great satisfaction in creating various design works, which motivated me to pursue a career in design. During my university years, I even started a self-owned brand with friends, selling clothing and products that we designed ourselves. Although it was not ultimately successful, it served as the motivation for my future entrepreneurial endeavors. After graduating from university, I pursued an MA in Industrial Design at Central St Martins in London, UK, to broaden my design perspectives and enhance my skills. During my time in the UK, I absorbed a wealth of diverse design knowledge and concepts, which had a significant impact on my design style. Upon completing my studies in Europe and returning to Taiwan to establish Union Atelier, I integrated modern international design with Eastern traditional culture, creating our unique design style.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
My works often blend modern design with traditional cultural perspectives. I strive to interpret these complex cultural concepts with a minimalist and sleek approach. When using traditional culture as inspiration, extensive research is crucial to fully understand its meanings, purposes, and values. This involves delving into the history, heritage, customs, and legends of the culture. Through such research, we can better comprehend and respect the culture and seamlessly integrate it into our design. During the creative process, I endeavor to convey stories and emotions through design, allowing the audience to perceive the underlying significance of the artwork. Through meticulous attention to detail and carefully selected elements, I aim to create an interactive experience where viewers can resonate and emotionally connect with the artwork. Ultimately, I aspire for my works to offer more than just visual aesthetics, but also deep cultural experiences and contemplation. I believe that integrating modern design with traditional culture can inspire people's interest and understanding of different cultures, while providing a unique and enriching design experience.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
Whenever our studio embarks on a new project, we approach it with great excitement and a positive mindset. We firmly believe that every design should bring joy to its users, and that's why maintaining the same mindset throughout the design process is crucial. We place a strong emphasis on thorough design research at the beginning of each project, as it sets the right direction and strategy to create designs that meet the requirements. Our goal is not only to fulfill the client's expectations but also to enhance the user experience. By maintaining a joyful attitude, the entire design process flows smoothly and pleasantly.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
I grew up in an artistic environment, as my mother was a skilled painting teacher. Since childhood, I have always enjoyed picking up a pen and drawing. The backs of old calendars at home were always filled with my artwork. Even as a child, I paid attention to small details in my drawings, which were inspired by things I observed in my everyday life. Looking back, I believe this was my earliest introduction to design. I would create new things within my artwork, imagining them as real-world objects. It's interesting to think that this was essentially a complete design process. Although my ideas were often imaginative, I would create with a specific purpose in mind, ensuring that the designs served the functions I deemed necessary. Reflecting on it now, it's truly fascinating!
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
I have been working in brand design for 10 years, but the truth is, I studied industrial design during my student years. I still have a dream of pursuing furniture design, and I hope to one day create my own furniture brand.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
When design needs to meet real user requirements and align with business practices, some imaginative ideas may seem out of place. However, I believe it's crucial not to extinguish our passion and creativity for design because of this. I think great designers are always able to incorporate innovative elements and interesting concepts into people's lives. Yet, as we spend more time in the design industry, we often find ourselves constrained by our own experiences or commercial models. I have developed a habit of giving my mind a break at regular intervals. Whether it's taking a day or two to clear my mind, visiting art galleries, or even aimlessly wandering around shopping centers, these activities often spark new inspiration. We can always discover things in our daily lives that we previously overlooked, and these small details can become the inspiration for our future designs. Therefore, taking appropriate breaks and stepping away from design projects are key to creating more exceptional work in the future.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
I believe that good designers need to have empathy and think from the perspective of users or consumers when approaching design. Sometimes designers may be solely focused on achieving their desired design outcome, disregarding the actual user context. Such designs often have a short-lived impact, as people may remember them but discover numerous issues when they actually use or experience them. There is no "perfect" design in the world, only the most suitable design. When a design is placed within its intended context and effectively fulfills its purpose, that is the most appropriate design and what users truly need. Therefore, I suggest that designers observe what people truly need through their everyday experiences. By doing so, we can provide solutions through designs that are relevant and address the actual needs of users.
What is your day to day look like?
During my regular work routine, I have a habit of waking up early. After sending my children off to school, I like to find a coffee shop that I enjoy. While having breakfast, I review the ongoing design projects. This time allows me to think about the details of the designs without any pressure, and it's when some creative ideas often emerge. Once I arrive at the studio, I gather with other members of the design team to discuss the progress and execution of all the design cases. We discuss designs and problem-solving approaches. In the design process, extensive discussions are necessary to examine the work from different perspectives and ensure design quality. After work, I like to observe what is currently popular on the streets during my commute home. Understanding trends is crucial because we need to be aware of the public's preferences in order to innovate and create new trends. Additionally, I believe that exercise is a great time for generating design ideas. Sometimes I go for a run because it clears my mind and relieves any stress, allowing me to brainstorm and refine design concepts.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
In addition to following different social media platforms online, I enjoy taking walks on the streets because it allows me to witness people's consumer behaviors and the current trends firsthand. Apart from staying updated with the latest trends, visiting art museums or galleries also exposes me to new forms of art and design. It's in these places that I often encounter different perspectives and creative ideas, which I find fascinating. I believe that many designers today rely too heavily on technology and the internet. They spend most of their time gathering information in front of a computer or absorbing new content through their smartphones. In my opinion, nothing beats the direct and immersive experience of physically visiting places and exploring. It's the most direct and effective way to truly experience design.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
Design has no absolute right answer; it's about creating designs that are suitable and bring more beauty to people's lives. It's a subjective field that adapts to diverse preferences and requirements. The goal is to design solutions that resonate with users, evoke emotions, and enhance functionality. The iterative process allows for exploration, refinement, and consideration of various factors. Ultimately, successful design makes a positive impact and enriches the human experience.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
I believe that continuous discussion is essential to make design work more complete. When we are in the process of designing, we often discover new problems or ideas that we incorporate into the design. However, it's important to understand that once the design adequately meets the needs of consumers, we should start to converge and wrap up the design. The design process can go on indefinitely, but that doesn't necessarily guarantee better outcomes. As long as the design effectively satisfies the requirements and withstands thorough scrutiny, we will know that the design is ready.
What is your biggest design work?
I have several years of experience in the design industry, specifically in brand design, which I have been involved in for over 10 years. Throughout this time, there have been many projects that I am personally very satisfied with. Being able to serve clients through a comprehensive design process, creating new brands and introducing them to the market, has brought me excellent feedback. During the design process, both myself and my team members invest a significant amount of time and effort. We aim to tailor each design project to meet the specific needs of every client, presenting each work in the best possible way. I always look forward to starting new projects because they provide great opportunities for our team to showcase our skills and create fresh brands for our clients.
Who is your favourite designer?
I have always admired the designs of Dieter Rams; I am a fan of his work. All of his creations are timeless, and even in designs from many years ago, you can still sense the precision and harmony in every detail. I often refer to Dieter Rams' 10 principles of design, which serves as a guideline for me to evaluate my own designs. I believe that these principles showcase the design experience of a master, and they serve as a goal for young designers to aspire to and strive for higher levels of design excellence.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
I live in Taipei, Taiwan. This city combines a mix of old and new elements. It features traditional Taiwanese temples, city gates, old houses, and streets, alongside modern high-rise buildings and shopping malls. The diverse environment often inspires me with different design ideas, making my work more interesting and storytelling. However, considering the conservative social norms, some clients may have a lower acceptance of avant-garde designs. Therefore, it becomes crucial to communicate and persuade clients to embrace innovative design approaches.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
Design is not a solitary endeavor but a collaborative industry that thrives on teamwork and synergy. It is a holistic process that encompasses various aspects, including brand concepts, logo design, visual design, packaging design, photography, and spatial design. Each of these elements plays a crucial role in creating a cohesive and impactful end result. Effective design requires seamless coordination and communication among designers, creatives, project managers, and other stakeholders. It is through their collective efforts and shared vision that a design project can truly come to life. By working together, they can leverage their individual expertise, perspectives, and skills to tackle challenges, explore innovative solutions, and deliver outstanding outcomes. In a collaborative design environment, the strength lies in the diversity of talents and the ability to leverage each team member's unique skills and perspectives. By fostering an inclusive and supportive culture, team members can freely exchange ideas, provide constructive feedback, and challenge each other to push the boundaries of creativity. Moreover, successful design projects often involve iterative processes, where ideas are continuously refined and iterated upon based on feedback and insights. The collective wisdom and input of the team are instrumental in shaping and refining the design direction. By embracing a collaborative mindset, designers can tap into the collective intelligence of the team, harnessing its collective creativity and problem-solving capabilities. Ultimately, the success of a design project hinges on the collective efforts and collaborative spirit of the team. When all members are aligned and working towards a shared goal, the result is a harmonious fusion of ideas, aesthetics, and functionality that captivates and resonates with the target audience. Therefore, in the world of design, fostering a sense of unity, collaboration, and shared purpose is of paramount importance. It is through the collective power of a cohesive team that remarkable designs are created and brought to fruition, leaving a lasting impact on the world.
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Good design has the ability to influence human behavior, whether visually, tactilely, auditory, or even olfactory. When we present excellent design to the public, it has a positive impact on their experiences, making their daily lives more warm and enjoyable. Therefore, I believe that designers have a certain social responsibility, which is to bring forth good design and contribute it to society.
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
I feel that the experience of winning this award allows the works to be seen by others more quickly, even reaching people from other countries. Participating in a competition is a significant challenge for designers and also a great opportunity for exposure. It not only increases the recognition of the works but also enables clients' works to be seen by more people, benefiting both the design company and the clients.

Extended Interview with Weiche Wu

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I have a background in Industrial Design, having graduated from an Industrial Design program in Taiwan. Later, I pursued my studies at Central St Martins in London, where I completed an MA in Industrial Design. I co-founded Union Atelier with Minhan Lin in 2013. Since then, we have been involved in various design projects, including brand design, graphic design, packaging design, commercial space design, and interior design. I believe that all design disciplines are interconnected, and I aim to utilize my expertise to assist clients in accomplishing various projects and enhancing the value of products or services across different industries.
How did you become a designer?
Bringing better and more convenient lives, as well as a joyful mindset, to users is the greatest motivation behind my design work.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
Since I was young, I have had a strong sense of appreciation for beauty, and I have always enjoyed drawing and creating. These experiences have been crucial in shaping me into a designer. When I discovered the design industry, I was determined to become a designer.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
I enjoy working on brand design projects because we have the opportunity to build a complete brand from scratch. From brand name, brand story, logo design, packaging design, product sales models, advertising strategies, to commercial space design, we cover the entire design process. Through this comprehensive design process, we can assist clients in establishing a complete brand framework and launch it into the market. When a complete brand design project is completed, we always feel a special excitement and sense of accomplishment. We can't wait to see the response of the new brand in the market.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
Observing our surroundings, experiencing life, and interacting with people are crucial aspects of a designer's life. Our design works are meant to integrate into people's lives and enhance their experiences. Therefore, it is essential for us to empathize with users and consider every detail, as these details are key to the success of our creations.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
Great designers often possess the ability to think independently. While having strong design skills is essential, experienced designers can typically produce visually appealing works. However, great designers with critical thinking abilities tend to clarify the purpose of a project first. They are skilled at identifying the appropriate design approaches before diving into the actual design process. This is because blindly proposing designs without thoughtful consideration usually does not lead to the most ideal design outcomes.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
Design does not have an absolute right answer; it is about finding the most suitable design that brings more beauty to people's lives.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Design has no absolute right answer; it's about creating designs that are suitable and bring more beauty to people's lives. It's a subjective field that adapts to diverse preferences and requirements. The goal is to design solutions that resonate with users, evoke emotions, and enhance functionality. The iterative process allows for exploration, refinement, and consideration of various factors. Ultimately, successful design makes a positive impact and enriches the human experience.
What is your day to day look like?
I hope to be able to assist some local businesses in Taiwan with their brand design. Some Taiwanese companies have been established for a long time and have performed well. However, due to limited design resources during their early stages, the quality of their designs may not be ideal. By implementing professional re-branding projects, I believe we can enhance the competitiveness of these industries and bring about positive changes.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
I have been working in brand design for 10 years, but the truth is, I studied industrial design during my student years. I still have a dream of pursuing furniture design, and I hope to one day create my own furniture brand.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
My design process consists of several steps. Firstly, I begin by understanding the purpose of the design, the target audience, and the desired outcomes. Secondly, I engage in extensive data collection and research to fully grasp all the relevant information. Next, I collaborate with my design team to perform activities such as mind mapping and brainstorming to generate design inspiration, explore materials, and techniques. Finally, I proceed with comprehensive design planning to deliver a complete design project.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
I often refer to Dieter Rams' 10 principles of design, which serves as a guideline for me to evaluate my own designs. I believe that these principles showcase the design experience of a master, and they serve as a goal for young designers to aspire to and strive for higher levels of design excellence.
What is your biggest design work?
I have always admired the designs of Dieter Rams; I am a fan of his work. All of his creations are timeless, and even in designs from many years ago, you can still sense the precision and harmony in every detail.
Who is your favourite designer?
As a designer, I can never determine which one of my works is the best because over time, I always discover areas for improvement. This is the beauty of design—it is constantly evolving and growing. Each work represents my best effort at that moment, but with the passage of time and the accumulation of experience, I continuously learn and develop new skills and perspectives. This also means that I constantly reassess and challenge my own work to find room for improvement. This ongoing self-reflection and progress are key to becoming a designer who is constantly growing. I believe that only by looking forward can I surpass myself and create better and more valuable works.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
I believe in constantly asking myself "why?" in every design decision. Regardless of the design task at hand, it is important to question why I am doing things a certain way, if there are better alternatives, and if there are other possibilities to explore. Through this process of self-inquiry, I often push my design to a higher level. By challenging my own assumptions and seeking better solutions, I can refine and elevate the design to its full potential. This constant self-questioning and exploration help me expand my creative boundaries and deliver more impactful and meaningful designs.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
If I hadn't become a designer, I think I would probably be unemployed. :)
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Design is a very broad industry that can be approached from various perspectives, but the ultimate goal is to bring us joy and make our daily lives better.
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
All of my designs are completed in collaboration with the members of Union Atelier. I have a strong design team that is capable of executing various design tasks for clients. With the help of our professional design team, we ensure that every detail of the design is implemented and that the project is executed with completeness.

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