Interviews med Rui Sun

I've been immersed in design for several years, focusing primarily on UX and UI design. My journey has taken me through various projects where I’ve collaborated with cross-functional teams in Tencent, Neteast, Didi Global, especially in the fintech space. I've contributed to launching complex systems, such as foreign currency exchange trading platforms and operating dashboards for Citi private banking. It’s been a fulfilling experience to merge creativity with functionality, ensuring that user needs are at the heart of every project.

My path to becoming a designer began with a deep-rooted passion for art and technology. I pursued a degree in industrial design, which opened my eyes to the world of UX design. I fell in love with the idea of creating solutions that improve people’s lives, and the more I learned about user-centered design, the more I knew this was the right field for me.

When I design, my top priority is always the user experience. I believe in a user-centered approach that balances aesthetics with functionality. My technique often involves thorough research and user testing, which inform my design decisions. My style leans toward modern aesthetics combined with practicality, ensuring that my designs are not only visually appealing but also intuitive and easy to use.

Designing evokes a mix of excitement and satisfaction for me. There’s something incredibly rewarding about transforming an idea into a tangible solution that can help someone. At times, it can be frustrating, especially during challenging projects, but that makes the moments of success even sweeter.

Growing up in China and studying in the U.S. has given me a unique perspective on design. The diverse cultural influences have taught me the importance of empathy and adaptability in my work. My experience working in different markets has also helped me understand the nuances of user needs and preferences across cultures.

My growth path has been all about continuous learning and taking on challenging projects. In the future, I hope to explore more leadership roles, guiding teams and mentoring emerging designers. My dream project would be to create an innovative product that bridges technology and wellness, perhaps something that enhances mental health through design.

Stay curious and never stop learning. The design field is always evolving, so keep up with new trends and tools. Don't hesitate to seek feedback and collaborate with others—it's one of the best ways to grow. And remember, it’s okay to make mistakes; they are part of the learning process.

Focus on the user. Always keep their needs at the forefront of your design process. Also, embrace collaboration. Working with others can spark new ideas and lead to unexpected solutions. Lastly, trust your instincts and be confident in your creativity.

My day typically starts with checking emails and reviewing project updates. I spend a lot of time collaborating with my team—brainstorming ideas, creating wireframes, and conducting user tests. Meetings with stakeholders are also common, ensuring everyone is aligned. It’s a mix of creative work and strategic planning, which keeps things interesting.

I regularly read design blogs, follow influential designers on social media, and participate in design forums. Trends matter, but they shouldn’t dictate your work. It’s essential to stay informed, but always prioritize what works best for your users and the context of your project.

A well-designed product effectively meets user needs and provides a seamless experience. Good design should be intuitive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing. It’s all about how well it resonates with users and solves their problems.

I look for a balance of user feedback and my design goals. If it meets the objectives, passes usability tests, and feels right, then it’s ready. Collaboration and feedback loops are key in this decision-making process.

My biggest design work has been the Foreign Currency Exchange Trading System for Citi Private Bank. It was a massive undertaking that required extensive collaboration across global teams. The project challenged me but ultimately showcased the impact good design can have on user experience in a complex financial landscape.

I really admire Jonathan Ive for his work with Apple. His ability to blend form and function in a way that feels intuitive and beautiful is something I strive for in my own work.

My lifestyle is a mix of work and creativity. I enjoy exploring design in various forms, whether it’s through travel, art, or architecture. Coming from China, I carry cultural values that emphasize community and collaboration, which influence my approach to design.

I believe in a collaborative and inclusive work culture. Open communication and feedback are vital. My business philosophy centers around user-centric design—putting the user first in every decision we make ensures we create solutions that truly resonate.

I’m passionate about using design to make a difference. I’ve volunteered my design skills for nonprofits that focus on helping underprivileged communities, creating accessible resources that address their needs.

Attending the A’ Design Award was an incredible experience. I connected with other talented designers, gained insights into different design perspectives, and received valuable feedback on my work. It’s always inspiring to see innovative ideas and share experiences with like-minded individuals.

The main principle behind the M Self Evolved Personal Memory Sculpture is to combat the mental stress caused by information overload in our highly digitalized world. The idea is rooted in the belief that individuals need a tangible means to facilitate introspection and self-reflection. My inspiration came from observing how technology can create fragmentation in our lives, leading to a lack of mindfulness. This sculpture serves as a physical reminder to pause, meditate, and reconnect with one’s inner self.

My primary focus was to create a product that encourages mindfulness and meditation. I aimed to design a sculpture that not only serves as a beautiful object but also grows and evolves based on the user’s engagement with it. By establishing a habit of self-reflection, I wanted to help individuals cultivate a deeper connection with themselves, ultimately reducing mental stress and enhancing overall well-being.

In the future, I plan to expand the M concept by integrating more personalized features that adapt to user preferences. This could involve digital elements that provide guided meditation or reflection prompts, enhancing the user experience. I also hope to collaborate with mental health professionals to promote the sculpture as a tool for mindfulness practices in therapeutic settings.

The design process for the M sculpture took approximately two years. This period involved extensive research, prototyping, and user testing to ensure that it effectively addressed the needs for introspection and meditation.

This concept was inspired by my passion for creating designs that enhance mental well-being. It was not commissioned; rather, it emerged from my observations of how modern life impacts our mental health. I felt a strong urge to create a product that provides a refuge from the chaos of everyday life.

Currently, I am exploring partnerships with companies that align with the ethos of mindfulness and wellness. My goal is to ensure that the M sculpture is produced in a way that maintains its integrity and purpose, potentially collaborating with manufacturers who share my vision for promoting mental health.

I designed this type of work because I believe in the transformative power of mindful practices. The increasing stress levels in society due to constant connectivity and information overload motivated me to create a solution that encourages users to take a step back and reflect. The M sculpture is a direct response to these modern challenges.

Yes, I drew inspiration from various minimalist designs that prioritize user experience and emotional connection, such as Zen gardens and other mindfulness-based artifacts. Designers who incorporate nature and tranquility into their work have influenced my approach to creating a calming and meaningful experience through the M sculpture.

The target customers for the M sculpture include individuals seeking to enhance their mindfulness practices, those experiencing stress from modern life, and mental health practitioners who wish to incorporate innovative tools into their therapeutic practices. It appeals to a wide range of ages and backgrounds, particularly those who value personal growth and well-being.

What sets the M sculpture apart is its interactive, evolving nature that responds to the user’s meditation frequency. Unlike static mindfulness products, M grows and changes, creating a unique relationship between the user and the sculpture. This dynamic aspect encourages users to engage with it regularly, making mindfulness a more integrated part of their lives.

The name M represents the concepts of memory and mindfulness, capturing the essence of the product's purpose. It symbolizes the idea that through meditation and reflection, individuals can cultivate and evolve their memories and experiences into something meaningful and beautiful.

I utilized a variety of design tools during the development of the M sculpture, including CAD software for 3D modeling, sketching tools for conceptual designs, and prototyping technologies to create physical models. User feedback platforms were also crucial for gathering insights throughout the design process.

The most unique aspect of the M sculpture is its ability to physically evolve based on the user’s meditation habits. This interactive feature not only provides a visual representation of their mindfulness journey but also motivates ongoing engagement, making the sculpture a living testament to personal growth.

I collaborated with mental health professionals and user experience researchers to ensure the design effectively promotes mindfulness and self-reflection. Additionally, I worked with technical experts in materials and production to realize the physical aspects of the sculpture.

Technology plays a supportive role in the M sculpture by enabling the tracking of user engagement. While the primary focus is on the physical object, integrating simple tech elements can provide feedback and insights into the user's meditation patterns, enhancing their overall experience.

Yes, the design was informed by research on the psychological benefits of mindfulness and meditation. I conducted surveys and interviews to understand user needs and challenges, which helped shape the functionality and emotional impact of the M sculpture.

One of the main challenges was ensuring that the sculpture remains engaging without overwhelming users. Balancing simplicity with functionality was essential. Additionally, developing a production process that maintains the design's integrity while being scalable posed logistical challenges.

I decided to submit the M sculpture to an international design competition to gain recognition and feedback from a broader audience. I believe that such platforms provide invaluable opportunities to connect with other designers and industry professionals, as well as validate the design within the design community.

Throughout the design process, I learned the importance of integrating user feedback at every stage. This experience reinforced my commitment to user-centered design principles and highlighted the need for adaptability in the creative process.

I would like to emphasize the significance of design as a tool for enhancing mental well-being. The M Self Evolved Personal Memory Sculpture aims to remind individuals of the importance of introspection in a fast-paced world, offering a tangible way to cultivate mindfulness and promote a healthier mental state.

I started my design journey in China, where I developed a strong foundation in art and design. I then moved to the U.S. to pursue a degree in industrial design, which really shaped my perspective on user experience. Since then, I've had the opportunity to work in various roles, especially focusing on UX design at top firms, including my current position at Citi Shanghai.

I’m driven by the desire to create solutions that genuinely improve people's lives. The challenge of merging functionality with aesthetics excites me. I became a designer because I wanted to channel my creativity into something impactful, and design allows me to do just that.

Choosing to become a designer was a no-brainer for me! I’ve always been drawn to art and technology, and design felt like the perfect blend of both worlds. It was an organic choice driven by my passion rather than pressure.

I focus on user experiences, particularly in the fintech space. I’m eager to design more innovative products that address mental wellness and accessibility. Creating solutions that empower users and improve their daily lives is something I aspire to do more of.

Stay curious and keep learning! Experiment with different styles and tools, and don’t shy away from collaboration. Building a solid portfolio is important, but don’t forget to network and learn from others in the field.

A good designer meets user needs, while a great designer anticipates them. Great designers have a deep understanding of their audience and push boundaries creatively, all while ensuring usability and functionality.

A really good design resonates with users emotionally and functionally. I evaluate design by considering how intuitive and user-friendly it is, as well as how effectively it solves a problem. If it brings joy and satisfaction to users, that’s a sign of a great design.

Good design can save time, improve efficiency, and enhance user experiences. Investing in good design is investing in the overall success of a product or service. It creates lasting impressions and can significantly boost user satisfaction and loyalty.

If I had the time, I would love to design a wellness app that combines mindfulness practices with daily task management. It would be aimed at busy professionals looking to balance their work and mental health.

My dream project would be to create a community space that integrates technology and design for mental health support. A place where people can connect, learn, and find resources tailored to their well-being would be incredibly fulfilling to work on.

My secret recipe for success involves a mix of empathy, creativity, and perseverance. The secret ingredient? Being open to feedback and continuously learning from my experiences and those around me.

I draw inspiration from designers like Jonathan Ive and Don Norman. Their ability to blend aesthetics with user-centric principles has had a significant influence on my work.

I really admire the simplicity and functionality of Apple products. Their design philosophy emphasizes user experience, and I appreciate how they manage to create intuitive interfaces that feel natural to use.

My greatest design work has been the Foreign Currency Exchange Trading System at Citi. What makes it great is how it streamlined complex processes for users while providing a visually appealing interface that enhances usability.

Continuous learning is key. I’ve attended workshops, sought mentorship, and taken online courses to sharpen my skills. Getting involved in design communities has also helped me grow and stay inspired.

If I hadn’t pursued design, I might have ventured into technology or art education. Both fields fascinate me, and I enjoy exploring how they can intersect with design.

For me, design is the process of solving problems through creativity and innovation. It’s about understanding users, crafting experiences, and making the world a bit easier and more beautiful.

My biggest supporter has been my family, who always encouraged my creative pursuits. I’ve also had great mentors throughout my education and career who have guided me and pushed me to excel.

A mix of education, hands-on experience, and a passion for learning has contributed to my growth as a designer. Engaging in real-world projects and receiving constructive feedback has been invaluable.

Like many designers, I faced challenges such as self-doubt and balancing creativity with practicality. Learning to accept feedback and iterate on designs was a significant hurdle I had to overcome.

Designers should present their work with a clear narrative, highlighting the problem, the design process, and the impact of their solutions. Visuals are crucial, but context and storytelling bring designs to life.

My next project involves enhancing a user interface for a financial app. Expect fresh ideas that prioritize user experience while integrating innovative features to streamline processes.

My ultimate goal is to create designs that empower users and contribute positively to their lives. I want to make a meaningful impact through my work, bridging the gap between technology and human experience.

People expect creativity, innovation, and solutions that address their needs. They look for someone who understands their challenges and can translate those into effective designs.

Design helps create a better society by addressing real-world problems and improving user experiences. Thoughtful design can lead to enhanced accessibility, inclusivity, and overall quality of life.

I’m currently working on optimizing a dashboard for bankers that enhances their workflow and user experience. I’m excited about the potential impact it will have on efficiency and productivity.

The Foreign Currency Exchange Trading System project was particularly satisfying because it challenged me and allowed me to collaborate with a global team. Seeing the end-users benefit from the design was incredibly rewarding.

I’d love to see a stronger focus on sustainability in design practices. As designers, we have the power to influence positive change and should prioritize eco-friendly solutions.

I believe the design field is moving towards more integrated experiences that combine digital and physical elements. As technology evolves, designers will need to adapt and innovate accordingly.

The timeline varies depending on the project’s complexity, but I typically allow a few weeks for research, prototyping, and iterations. It’s important to balance thoroughness with efficiency.

I start by conducting user research and understanding the project requirements. This foundational step helps me frame the design challenge and guide my creative process.

“Design is not just what it looks like and feels like. Design is how it works.” I believe great design seamlessly blends form and function.

I think it’s a bit of both. Designers can set trends by innovating, but they also need to stay attuned to current trends and user preferences to create relevant work.

Technology plays a critical role in enhancing design processes and enabling innovative solutions. It allows me to experiment and create interactive prototypes that improve user experience.

I use tools like Sketch, Figma, and Adobe Creative Suite for design and prototyping. A good setup with a high-resolution monitor also helps me work efficiently and effectively.

Color, materials, and ambiance are essential in evoking emotions and setting the tone for a design. They can significantly influence user experience, so I carefully consider these elements in my work.

I wish people would ask about the thought process behind my designs. I love sharing the story of how I identified user needs and the journey I went through to create solutions that really resonate with them.

When I see a great design, I often think about the thought and research that went into it. I admire how it meets user needs while also looking appealing. It makes me excited about the potential for future innovations in design!

My ideal design partner would be someone who shares a passion for user-centric design and brings diverse perspectives to the table. I absolutely believe in co-design! Collaborating with others can spark fresh ideas and lead to more well-rounded solutions.

I’ve been influenced by several mentors and peers at Tencent and Citi bank throughout my journey. Colleagues who challenged my thinking and pushed me to explore new approaches have had a significant impact on my design philosophy.

Books like "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman and "Don't Make Me Think" by Steve Krug have greatly influenced my approach. They emphasize the importance of usability and understanding user behavior, which are core to my design process.

I developed my skills through a mix of formal education, hands-on experience, and continuous learning. Seeking feedback and being open to constructive criticism has been essential in refining my design abilities.

I would love to meet Dieter Rams. His philosophy on design simplicity and functionality resonates deeply with me, and I’d be thrilled to discuss his views on modern design challenges.

I feel grateful for the recognition, but I try to stay grounded. Fame can be overwhelming, and I prefer to focus on the work itself rather than the accolades. What truly matters is the impact my designs have on users.

My favorite color is blue because it brings a sense of calm and clarity. I love visiting art museums, and my go-to food is sushi. I enjoy the transition of seasons, especially fall with its vibrant colors. A brand I admire is Apple for its focus on design and user experience.

One funny moment was during a design presentation when my prototype unexpectedly crashed on the big screen! I had to improvise and explain my design verbally, which turned out to be more engaging than I had planned. It taught me to be flexible and adapt on the fly!

A great day for me includes collaborating with my team and hearing positive feedback from users. I motivate myself by setting small goals and celebrating progress along the way. I also find inspiration in nature and art, which helps fuel my creativity.

Absolutely! I was always doodling and building things. My family often joked that I was going to be an architect or designer because I loved creating and experimenting with different materials.

In a thousand years, I envision a world where design seamlessly integrates with technology to enhance everyday life. We’ll likely see more sustainable practices and innovative solutions to complex problems, improving the quality of life for everyone.

I want my fans to know that I’m passionate about making a difference through design. I believe in the power of empathy and creativity to solve problems, and I’m always eager to collaborate and learn from others. Thank you for supporting my journey!

I grew up in China and later moved to the U.S. for college, where I studied industrial design and built my foundation in the field. Right now, I work as a UX designer at Citi in Shanghai, where I get to apply my skills to design engaging user experiences.

From a young age, I’ve been really passionate about art, technology, and social progress, especially advocating for people in underrepresented communities. These interests have been a big influence on my career and led me to pursue design.

In my junior year, I started visiting elderly stroke patients to understand what they go through during rehab. Seeing the challenges they face really highlighted the importance of preserving dignity for older users and finding creative ways to improve their well-being. That experience pulled me into the world of service design, and I’ve been hooked ever since.

As a senior UX designer at Citi Shanghai, I handle the design side of Citi PBWM’s ToB transaction system. My work covers the whole process of delivering digital products—from digging into user needs and fine-tuning wireframes to creating detailed UI designs and coordinating smoothly with everyone involved across the product line.

For me, design is all about crafting solutions that really matter—making people’s lives better and easier in meaningful ways. It’s more than just looks; it’s about understanding what people need and finding creative, practical ways to meet those needs. Whether it’s through physical products, digital experiences, or even broader systems, design is about solving problems with purpose.

I like combining traditional materials with technology adds a unique aesthetic appeal and cultural significance to the design, resulting in a harmonious blend of the old and the new. This type of design exemplifies the power of innovation and creativity to transform and elevate our interactions with products, ultimately enriching our lives

I’m especially drawn to design that mixes innovative tech with traditional materials, especially in things like wearable garments and rehab gear. This blend is fascinating to me because it connects the physical and digital worlds in a way that creates new, meaningful experiences. Integrating advanced tech into everyday items can really push the envelope on comfort, performance, and even health, opening up some exciting possibilities.

I'm more focused and productive during early morning and late night.

For me, “good” design is all about making the user genuinely happy and satisfied. It’s more than just checking the functional boxes—it’s about building a positive emotional connection. Good design anticipates what users want, gets their preferences, and addresses any pain points in a way that feels natural and thoughtful.

AI is set to become a go-to tool for sparking ideas and boosting knowledge for designers. While it brings a lot of potential, the human touch in craftsmanship will always stand out and matter. AI might help with parts of the creative process, but it can’t replicate the unique details and depth that only human craftsmanship can bring.

My design style is a mix of modern vibes with a touch of vintage charm. Before jumping into the practical work, I make sure to spend time on thorough observation. Giving space for reflection helps me tap into my experience to really understand the users’ core needs and pain points.

Once I’ve gathered these insights, I move on to quick prototypes—both digital and physical—to kick off initial feedback sessions with users or clients.

I currently live in Shanghai, China, a vibrant city that beautifully blends tradition and modernity. Absolutely, the cultural heritage of my country plays a significant role in my designs. I draw inspiration from traditional Chinese aesthetics, craftsmanship, and philosophies, which influence my approach to design.

Pros:

Living in such a rich cultural environment allows me to infuse my work with unique elements that resonate with both local and global audiences. The emphasis on harmony and balance in Chinese culture often inspires me to create designs that prioritize user experience and functionality.

Cons:

On the flip side, navigating the fast-paced nature of urban life in Shanghai can sometimes overshadow traditional practices and values. There’s a constant push towards modernity, which can create tension when trying to preserve cultural nuances in design. Balancing these aspects can be challenging, but it also drives me to explore innovative ways to merge the old with the new.

A typical day in my role as a Senior UX Designer at a top Fortune 500 company starts with a morning stand-up, where I sync up with developers, product managers, and stakeholders to align on project goals and any blockers. Afterward, I dive into my primary design tasks for the day, whether it’s refining wireframes, iterating on user flows, or conducting usability reviews on prototypes. I’ll often host user testing sessions or meet with our data and research teams to gather insights that drive design decisions. In the afternoon, I might join cross-functional meetings with stakeholders to review project progress, get feedback, and ensure design consistency across various touchpoints. My day usually wraps up with consolidating notes and preparing any design updates for the next iteration, ensuring our user experience meets both functional goals and user satisfaction. Balancing creativity with technical collaboration keeps my work dynamic, challenging, and incredibly rewarding.

My most valuable job experience was helping Citi Private Bank launch its Foreign Currency Exchange trading system and developing a Margin Check Operating Dashboard for bankers, while also rebuilding FX derivative products. As the sole designer on these projects, I collaborated with global teams from London, India, Singapore, and China. Despite the challenges and pressures, the accomplishment and recognition I gained made it incredibly rewarding. Additionally, my time at Citi deepened my financial knowledge, especially through hosting meetings with front-office end users, which helped me better understand their needs and priorities.

Looking forward, I’m excited to keep exploring digital experience design and the intersection with physical product development. My goal is to keep pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in design and leave a positive impact on user experiences.

For company projects I usually work in a global team across Asia and Europe. For personal projects I work on my own.

People can reach me at rsundesign@gmail.com

The concept originated during a moment of personal reflection on how constant digital stimuli reduce our capacity for introspection. While traveling, I noticed how physical, tactile objects like keepsakes or handwritten notes invoked a stronger emotional response compared to digital reminders. This inspired me to create something tangible that helps users disconnect from virtual chaos and reconnect with their inner thoughts—ultimately sparking The M Sculpture, a personal sanctuary in physical form.

The sculpture uses a combination of programmable materials and biometric sensors to detect and react to meditation frequencies. One major challenge was ensuring that the material’s growth patterns were visually organic yet technically precise. Early prototypes relied on magnetic levitation to create a dynamic interaction, but perfecting the synchronization between user data and physical transformation required collaboration with experts in biofeedback and material science.

The balance was achieved through iterative testing with users. The physical form had to evoke calm and simplicity, while the responsive growth symbolized personal progress. Materials like frosted glass and smooth metals were chosen for their tactile and visual comfort, ensuring the sculpture would feel approachable while reinforcing the psychological benefits of mindfulness.

This recognition reaffirmed the importance of integrating emotional well-being into design. It highlighted the growing demand for products that counterbalance the mental stress induced by digital lifestyles. This milestone encouraged me to explore broader applications of such concepts, such as adaptable designs for shared spaces or tools for communal mindfulness practices.

These technologies were inspired by the idea of making intangible mental progress visually tangible. Programmable materials allow the sculpture to evolve uniquely for each user, symbolizing personal journeys. Magnetic levitation creates an almost magical quality, enhancing user engagement and reinforcing the meditative experience through fluid, gravity-defying motion.

Cultural nuances deeply influenced the design. In San Francisco, the focus was on individual self-care in tech-heavy lifestyles, while in Shanghai, there was a greater emphasis on blending personal mindfulness with traditional values of balance and harmony. This dual perspective shaped The M Sculpture to resonate universally while retaining cultural sensitivity.

As living spaces shrink, the design could evolve into modular forms, allowing users to integrate the sculpture into multifunctional furniture or compact settings. The goal would be to maintain the essence of mindfulness and transformation while adapting to spatial constraints, ensuring accessibility in diverse environments.

My experience in UX design emphasized empathy and user-centered approaches, which guided the emotional elements of The M Sculpture. I focused on creating interactions that are intuitive yet meaningful, such as smooth transitions in the sculpture’s growth to mirror natural, calming movements.

The design includes smooth, flowing contours that reflect the organic growth of mindfulness. The lighting subtly changes according to the user’s meditation frequency, providing visual feedback on mental states. These elements bridge the gap between the abstract nature of thoughts and the tangible evolution of the sculpture.

Rather than focusing solely on adapting to physical constraints, I see The M Sculpture evolving to foster shared mindfulness experiences. For example, it could be scaled to function as a centerpiece in community wellness spaces, encouraging collective reflection in urban environments. The sculpture could adapt to group meditation sessions by visually reflecting the collective emotional state of participants. This approach not only addresses the challenges of compressed spaces but also fosters a sense of connection and shared purpose in increasingly isolated urban lifestyles.