Designer Interview
12 questions
My passion for design started when I was 14 years old in secondary school. I was introduced to design through the Design and Technology module I took and aced it. This changed my life.
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?
My passion for design started when I was 14 years old in secondary school. I was introduced to design through the Design and Technology module I took and aced it. This changed my life. From being bullied to someone who even the bullies look up to when they needed help in designing. Ever since then, I have never looked back.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
Singapore Institute of Manufacturing Technology (SIMTech) is a research institute of the Agency for Science, Technology and Research (A*STAR), which develops high value manufacturing technology and human capital to enhance the competitiveness of Singapore's manufacturing industry. SIMTech's research competencies encompass automation, system and process technologies and have completed projects for various companies in the electronics, semiconductor, precision engineering, medical technology, aerospace, automotive, marine, logistics and other sectors. Our Roles: - Boost the human capital base in Singapore through manpower development initiatives such as industry research collaborations and training programmes for industry. - Generate, apply and commercialise R&D, advanced manufacturing science and technology through creating intellectual capital to enhance local industries' competitiveness. - Enrich the industrial capital base from R&D collaborations outcome with the industry and the transfer of research results through technology training.
What is "design" for you?
Design is the harmonizing of timeless aesthetics and practical functionality through innovative solutions that changes the way we live for the better.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
Nothing in particular, as I like to challenge myself to design various products. But i would like to try my hand at designing automobiles. To me, that seems the most challenging.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
My favorite design would be the BMW i8. Every boy's dream car would be one of the supercars from companies like Lamborghini, Ferrari, etc. Mine included. But having seen the BMW i8, I would say the design alone falls under the same league as these titans. Which is an amazing feat.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
The first thing I designed for a company is a filtered water dispenser that delivers an experience like no other, for the luxury market in China. It pushes the boundaries of what a water dispenser looks like.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I don't have a favourite material. I believe all materials are equal, it only depends on the designer to bring out its unique properties and make it shine.
When do you feel the most creative?
My creativity comes through the merging of various experiences together to create innovative solutions.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
The user experience, aesthetics and functionality. All are equally important.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
Excitement and joy.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
To say the least, a sense of achievement to finally see your product being produced when it started out as a sketch. However, the epiphany moment is only realised when the product you designed changes someone's life for the better. The feeling is almost indescribable.
What makes a design successful?
The complete fusion of form and function that gives a profound and meaningful user experience.
