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Ma Shao-Hsuan

Taiwan (China)Interior

Interviews with Ma Shao-Hsuan

Read the interviews with Ma Shao-Hsuan: understand their philosophy, creative process and award-winning work.

Designer Profile

Design Interview

Plum Port Residential Design · 18 questions

Home of a fashion designer. The design is regressed to the geometric shapes and board colored aspect. Deploy a combination of various materials in the same tone. Create a rustic, calm but vivid space.

What is the main principle, idea and inspiration behind your design?

Home of a fashion designer.

The design is regressed to the geometric shapes and board colored aspect.

Deploy a combination of various materials in the same tone.

Create a rustic, calm but vivid space.

What has been your main focus in designing this work? Especially what did you want to achieve?

The interior space is only 61㎡ in this case.

Without changing the former kitchen and two toilets, it also contains two rooms, a living room, a dining room, and a unrevealed large storage space.

Psychologically provide a calm but not monotonous atmosphere to the user after a long day.

What are your future plans for this award winning design?

I may share the outcome to let everyone understand that the petite space can also be well designed in a practical and beautiful way.

How long did it take you to design this particular concept?

About 2 weeks.

Why did you design this particular concept? Was this design commissioned or did you decide to pursuit an inspiration?

Both, or I should say the inspiration for this case comes from the client ’s profession and personality.

What made you design this particular type of work?

Designed according to customer's requirement, everyone has their own unique temperament, which is also most interesting part in this job.

Where there any other designs and/or designers that helped the influence the design of your work?

Some masters ’works or furniture are the inspirations I will refer to. The dinning lamp used in this case was designed by Le Corbusier.

Who is the target customer for his design?

For those who need a large storage space but hide away clutter at home. People who preferred quiet temperament but not too dull. People who are calm but with a little sense of humor.

What sets this design apart from other similar or resembling concepts?

The concept is to create the harmony space with rusticated materials. We chose the Plum Port as the main wall.

How did you come up with the name for this design? What does it mean?

We named the project base from the main color in the space, not "someone's home", This color comes from the name on the swatch. The name of ochre on the swatch is Plum Port. By the way, the name in Chinese is not determined by swatches, but by the traditional oriental colors with some metaphors.

Which design tools did you use when you were working on this project?

I use paper and pen, in addition, graphic design and 3D software.

My inspiration comes from art journals and design magazines.

What is the most unique aspect of your design?

Classic elements, but in vogue.

Who did you collaborate with for this design? Did you work with people with technical / specialized skills?

We cooperate with the construction team that I am familiar with and have known for many years. In addition, the lighting designers and furniture configurators in our team also participated in this work.

What is the role of technology in this particular design?

We designed a wooden dining table that can be elongated according to the number of people, but I like to bring a little cement texture and extend the texture to the ceiling. Therefore, we use a special mineral coating which gives the table hardness and waterproof function.

Is your design influenced by data or analytical research in any way? What kind of research did you conduct for making this design?

We did experiment with the degree of occlusion of the metal hole board. For the visibility and transparency of the board, the distance between the holes, the diameter of the hole, the light source beyond the board and the distance behind the board, based on these conditions and adjustment to create different cabinets or doors. Some hole board can provide the faint figure behind the door or some only provide ventilation but not visualization of objects in the cabinet.

What are some of the challenges you faced during the design/realization of your concept?

The difficulty lies in the small space. In order to meet all the needs of users, we must pay attention and maximize to each centimeter. Also balance the practicality with the comfort and aesthetics.

How did you decide to submit your design to an international design competition?

This is an exceedingly small but highly compatible case. At the same time, we want to know whether a work like this can be favored by the reviewers. The confirmation from the reviewers is a great encouragement to us.

What did you learn or how did you improve yourself during the designing of this work?

To make effective application of space with design techniques and express aesthetics.

Design Legend Interview

44 questions

My mother is a teacher of traditional Chinese painting and national dance, which may have influenced me have deep affection for painting and creation, as well as the development of art and aesthetics.

Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

My mother is a teacher of traditional Chinese painting and national dance, which may have influenced me have deep affection for painting and creation, as well as the development of art and aesthetics. Until I studied architecture in university, I have logically transformed the creation into design, more likely to implement the design beautifully.

What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

For me, design is a combination process of sense and sensibility, science and aesthetics. It is fortunately for me to be engaged in architecture and interior design.

We often say that design is life. This is a profession that is closely related to everything in life. To create an environment or space that is good for both physically and mentally is the happiest thing.

Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

I choose to become a designer.

What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

I am engaged in building and interior design, especially villa.

What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

I am a young designer myself.

What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

A great designer can influence the social and cultural level even deeper, even for several generations.

What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

Simple and practical is my favorite design. Base on users’ habits and the natural of the material to adjust the appropriate proportion, thus the outcome is beautiful not tinsel.

What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

A good design can effectively solve the problem and produce the best results after planning.

What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

I want to design an art and design school for my hometown.

What is the dream project you haven't yet had time to realize?

I want to design and establish an art and design school.

What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

Well communication with users and think from the user end.

Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

Le Corbusier, Carlo Scarpa, Ludwig Mies van der Rohe,

Álvaro Siza, Tadao Ando.

What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

Villa Tugendhat designed by Ludwig Mies van der RoheIt is a milestone in modernist architecture. In appearance, it does not have the charm to attract people, and it is easy to miss the opportunity to discover its inner beauty. The original design concept was "move freely space". The so-called "move freely space" means that the whole building merges with the garden space into one without a boundary, and the French casement on both sides are completely open, integrates indoor and outdoor living. The internal building materials are all without any decoration.

What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

I am best at the home design, which can make the residents live with pleasure in this space.

How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

The creative concept, design idea and pursuit of aesthetic beauty come from the accumulation of daily life. In addition to reading and thinking, the pursuit of quality life, grow various hobbies and keep exploring the world curiously, these are the resources to breakout from the traditional design but gain innovational and inspirational design.

If you hadn't become a designer, what would you have done?

To be a doctor or chef.

How do you define design, what is design for you?

Design is life is my believe.

Considering the relationship between users a variety of space that from metropolis to buildings to interiors and to furniture.

Repeatedly explore the nature of the space for the propose of compatible, sustainable and logical strategies, which contains aesthetic philosophy.

Every design is the outcome of the integration of function and aesthetics.

Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

My wife, she is also a designer, we help each other in life and at work.

What helped you to become a great designer?

I think is the passion for design and persistence in beauty.

What's your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

A long and narrow base which is close to other buildings on three sides and the entrance faces to the road. This self-built home is a three-generation family of 10 members. Due to Feng Shui, it will not do patio lighting in the center of the building, nor the uplift space, so the windows for breath and light of the building will be the biggest challenge.

What's your ultimate goal as a designer?

I want to design and establish an art and design school.

How does design help create a better society?

A good design provides not only safety and convenience for people's daily life and work, but also provides communication between people to maintain emotions and the sublimation of the soul. Furthermore, it also has a certain effect on the development of the city.

What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

Building fascinating buildings at interesting bases.

Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

Effectively use the space in some small houses and meet all the needs when the design is comfortable.

Where do you think the design field is headed next?

I think that some design fields are still irreplaceable professional by computers. Basic design skills may be required as a basic ability for everyone in the future.

How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

It depends on the size and form of the case, at least 3 to 6 months.

When you have a new design project, where do you start?

I usually do a thoroughly investigation of the needs of the owners and collect basic information before I start the graphics design.

What is your life motto as a designer?

Design is life is my believe.

Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

I think trends set the designs.

What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

Other than paper and pen, I also use graphic design and 3D software.

What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

Color and material determine the harmony in the space.

What do you wish people to ask about your design?

How did you think of this design?

When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

I admire the efforts of the designer had done for the great design.

Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

My wife has always been my good design partner. Co-design is very important.

Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

With my colleagues and designer friends of the same peer group.

Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

Collections of those maters works.

How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

Nonstop thinking and training.

Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

Le Corbusier.

How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

Thanks to the judges for in favoriting my work. It is a great encouragement to me. It is not hard to become famous, but it is difficult to meet good owners.

What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

My favorite color is black, favorite place is home, favorite food is hamburger, the favorite season is autumn, the favorite thing is movie, and favorite brand is Muji.

Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

In order to show that I am also capable to work as on-site worker, hence I climbed the three-story scaffold and found that I am defeated by my fear of heights.

What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

As a designer, to choose daily life items is handy, and it is easy to inspire from the beautiful things.

When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

At that time I thought I would become a painter.

What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

It is possible that any design field can be replaced by artificial intelligence.

Designer Interview

37 questions

My mother is a teacher of traditional Chinese painting and national dance, which may have influenced me have deep affection for painting and creation, as well as the development of art and aesthetics.

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 mother is a teacher of traditional Chinese painting and national dance, which may have influenced me have deep affection for painting and creation, as well as the development of art and aesthetics. Until I studied architecture in university, I have logically transformed the creation into design, more likely to implement the design beautifully.

Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?

1.Marvelous studio was founded in 2011

Marvelous is a diversified architecture and interior design laboratory.

To create distinctive design solutions with our research spirit.

The design team includes architecture and interior design, lighting and home furnishings

Most of the works are residential space, commercial space, cultural educational space, exhibition space, furniture, and various space designs.

What is "design" for you?

Design is life is my believe.

Considering the relationship between users a variety of space that from metropolis to buildings to interiors and to furniture.

Repeatedly explore the nature of the space for the propose of compatible, sustainable and logical strategies, which contains aesthetic philosophy.

Every design is the outcome of the integration of function and aesthetics.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

Architecture and interior design are my favorite.

What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?

Simple and practical is my favorite design. Base on users’ habits and the natural of the material to adjust the appropriate proportion, thus the outcome is beautiful not tinsel.

What was the first thing you designed for a company?

A three-story old house. We rearranged the exterior and courtyard space, also remodeled the interior to suit the users’ need.

What is your favorite material / platform / technology?

Wood and metal are my favorite. According to their characteristics, their combination with each other can create infinite possible space.

When do you feel the most creative?

After viewing a fascinating exhibition, which I can reflect of some special concepts from different fields of art.

Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?

Users’ requirement.

What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?

A bit excited. I started dialectical thinking from both designer and users’ end repeatedly. Although it can be troubled sometimes, but the result is very satisfying.

What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?

We will have a sense of accomplishment, if we have the high standard of completion which meets users’ requirement.

What makes a design successful?

Apart from the budget and construction quality, the most important thing is well communication with users. To be in users’ position, think from users’ end.

When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?

Practicality and glamour. A good design must meet these two conditions.

From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?

A good design provides not only safety and convenience for people's daily life and work, but also provides communication between people to maintain emotions and the sublimation of the soul. Furthermore, it also has a certain effect on the development of the city.

How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?

I think that some design fields are still irreplaceable professions by computers. Basic design skills may be required as a basic ability for everyone in the future.

Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?

I am aware of all kinds of art in different fields, such as the East and West painting, sculptures, music, movies and various channel to conceive with unique concepts and ideas.

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 style is based on simplicity, but according to the different conditions of each space, the outcomes are more diverse and may challenge some traditional thought. The main feature is neat and simple lines, modest but interesting space.

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 Taiwan which has high population density. Every inch of space must be arranged more carefully to maximus its value. There is more restriction in design and budget. However, Taiwan has open social atmosphere and advance information technology, hence accepts various cultures is relatively high.

How do you work with companies?

Our best priority is to choose a company with high credence and can accept new ideas. This leads to a smoother result in the forthcoming cooperation.

What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?

It would be the best to discuss the ideas of both parties as many times as possible before the cooperation. In order to choose and coordinate with the most consensus designer.

Can you talk a little about your design process?

I usually do a thoroughly investigation of the owners’ requirements and collect basic information before I start the graphics design. During design process, I will think via the model, hand drawings and various pictures. On top of that, confirmation with each other at each stage and adjust design to ensure that it matches the original concept.

What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?

1. Large dining table.

2. The French casement in the bedroom which contains the view of the trees in the park.

3. Full stainless steel kitchenware.

4. Size adjustable modular storage cabinet.

5. Modeling lamps.

Can you describe a day in your life?

Expect going to construction site on workdays, I usually go to the studio with my wife who is also a designer, and sometimes bring two pugs. Recently, I take my newly born child to work, since the studio is not far from home. When the workload is heavy, I often go back to the studio to work at night.

Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?

Professional skills and knowledge may help to pick up fast at work, but the creative concept, design idea and pursuit of aesthetic beauty come from the accumulation of daily life. In addition to reading and thinking, the pursuit of quality life, grow various hobbies and keep exploring the world curiously, these are the resources to breakout from the traditional design but gain innovational and inspirational design.

From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?

As a designer, it is bond to have a certain degree of requirements for my personal living, but sometimes it can be a bit rigid for many things.

What is your "golden rule" in design?

Less is More.

What skills are most important for a designer?

Communication ability, including hand drawn perspective view and language expression.

Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?

I use paper and pen, in addition, graphic design and 3D software.

My inspiration comes from art journals and design magazines.

Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?

Leave at least a complete and uninterrupted time for the most important parts of the design, such as graphic planning and finding inspiration. And various meeting discussions and work trivia can be done in piecemeal time. The reflect on the concept is always on designer’s mind, which take place in the head at any time.

How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?

It depends on the size and form of the case, at least 3 to 6 months.

What was your most important job experience?

Architecture and interior design.

Who are some of your clients?

Some of my clients include average family, restaurant operator and company.

What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?

Home design. It is the most tightly related to the life of the user and the it is most delicate design.

What are your future plans? What is next for you?

Recruit talent people and expand the case source to improve the quality of the case.

Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?

I work with a group of excellent colleagues.

Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?

A long and narrow base which is close to other buildings on three sides and the entrance faces to the road. This self-built home is a three-generation family of 10 members. Due to Feng Shui, it will not do patio lighting in the center of the building, nor the uplift space, so the windows for breath and light of the building will be the biggest challenge.

How can people contact you?

People can contact me by 2 ways,

1.email: mvls.studio@gmail.com

2.Visit our Facebook and leave a message : https://www.facebook.com/MVLSstudio/

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The design interview data shown in our design interview page with Ma Shao-Hsuan regarding Plum Port Residential Design comes from the Design Interviews platform, where leading designers, architects and brands are interviewed regarding their award-winning designs, products and projects.