Skip to content
Ming-Ling Yang

Taiwan (China)Interior

Interviews with Ming-Ling Yang

Read the interviews with Ming-Ling Yang: understand their philosophy, creative process and award-winning work.

Designer Profile

Design Legend Interview

35 questions

I have a Ph.D. from the Dept. of Civil Engineering-Arch. at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, a M. Arch. From the Dept. of Architecture & Urban Planning at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu/Taiwan, and a B.Arch.

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

I have a Ph.D. from the Dept. of Civil Engineering-Arch. at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, a M. Arch. From the Dept. of Architecture & Urban Planning at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu/Taiwan, and a B.Arch. from the Department of Architecture at Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. I have been working as a designer for almost 20 years. In addition, I have a passion for the education for interior design and architecture. I firmly believe that the enlightenment and power that a professional designer and architect can bring to the younger generations are far more meaningful and influential than the accomplishment of self-fulfillment. With the community influence in the design field, I have always tried to pass on the professional influence in the field of education.

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

My passion for design motivates me.

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

I have always wanted to become a designer. I chose to become a designer.

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

I design residential, commercial space, office space, and etc. I don't limit myself.

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

I encourage them to explore the world in any possible way.

What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

Good designers can provide beautiful and good designs. A great designer creates aesthetical and functional space with environmentally friendly materials.

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

An outstanding design should show aesthetics and spatial functionality and focuses on environmental sustainability.

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

An outstanding design can bring a better life to mankind.

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

If I have time, I will design a residential space for my family and my dog.

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

I want to learn enamel craftsmanship.

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

Designers must be able to give vision. Designers must be able to plan and listen patiently.

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

I think that if you want to be a designer you will need to continue learning and reflecting on things.

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

If I have not been a designer, I would just be a teacher.

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

My husband is my biggest supporter.

What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

The environmental problem is getting worse. I believe that designers in our industry will pay more attention to materials and the issue of sustainability.

Where do you think the design field is headed next?

The design industry will definitely pay more attention to our environment and health of human beings and sustainable development.

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

It depends on how big a design project is.

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

Whenever I start a new design project, I will first start with researching the background information of the space and understanding the needs of the client.

What is your life motto as a designer?

Honesty and humility are my life motto.

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

Both are true.

What is the role of technology when you design?

Technology is a tool to assist me in the process of design.

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

AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Illustrator, and Office.

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

The color, materials, and ambient in design are the important elements that trigger the senses.

What do you wish people to ask about your design?

I hope people will say that my design is recognizable and shows both rational and sensual characteristics. In addition, I hope my design can provide warmth and comfort.

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

I would want to know more about the idea, the concept, and the challenges encountered in the process of developing.

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

Students are my partners. I believe in co-design.

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

My clients.

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

Confucian Analects.

How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

I reflect and learn from every design process.

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

Santa Claus

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

It is recognition when my design wins an award. Yes.

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

The color of light. Standing in front of a window. Delicious foods. Summer. Travel.

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

I try to maintain my utter innocence of a child.

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

When I was young, I often went to the construction site near my home to pick up building materials. I would use them to make toys.

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

The future is full of opportunities for introspection and reflection. I look forward to world peace.

Designer Interview

36 questions

I have a Ph.D. from the Dept. of Civil Engineering-Arch. at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, a M. Arch. From the Dept. of Architecture & Urban Planning at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu/Taiwan, and a B.Arch.

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 Ph.D. from the Dept. of Civil Engineering-Arch. at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu, Taiwan, a M. Arch. From the Dept. of Architecture & Urban Planning at Chung Hua University, Hsinchu/Taiwan, and a B.Arch. from the Department of Architecture at Chung Yuan Christian University, Taoyuan, Taiwan. I have been working as a designer for almost 20 years. In addition, I have a passion for the education for interior design and architecture. I firmly believe that the enlightenment and power that a professional designer and architect can bring to the younger generations is far more meaningful and influential than the accomplishment of self-fulfillment. With the community influence in the design field, I have always tried to pass on the professional influence in the field of education.

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

Kangwei Consulting Co., Ltd. was established in the incubation center of Chung Hua University. It aims to integrate the human resources of the school to provide consulting services. The company's first project is Lago Bistro which is a brand restaurant established in 2019. This restaurant provides the university youth a chance to practice, everything was started from scratch, from building the space to the details of running a restaurant. The teacher led the students from the departments of architecture, landscape, and hospitality to apply their knowledge and put it into practice. It provides guests and alumni an opportunity to get close to nature and relax. The company's current plans include the development of international cooperation business opportunities, smart city consulting, smart city training course planning, and marketing the total solution plan of system integration.

What is "design" for you?

Design is to show beauty, function, and application value through careful planning.

What kinds of works do you like designing most?

I like designs that are beautiful and functional.

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

For me, in a certain moment, when an inadvertent combination of space resonates in my heart, I will take it as the most favorite space design.

What was the first thing you designed for a company?

Design competition of a university gate and square.

What is your favorite material / platform / technology?

There is no such thing as favorite or dislike for me. If it is the most suitable material for the design, it will be the favorite. But in different situations, the answer may be completely different.

When do you feel the most creative?

When I have enough sleep.

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

Communication with customers.

What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?

Excited and happy.

What makes a design successful?

Customer satisfaction.

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

First of all, the design must be safe. The second is functionality. The third is the pursuit of beauty. The most important thing is not to over-design.

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

I believe that space is a reflection of human society. Designers are responsible to lead people, discover, and present the world in a special way to contribute to a better society and a world. Design is closely connected with the designer’s mentality and thought of the universe.

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

Design continues to have a great impact on culture and society. The power of design continues to shape and curve the way of living.

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

Human beings come from nature. We are inspired by nature in many different ways. When it comes to interior design and architecture, the design of our living space can also be inspired by nature. When I don't work, I like to get in touch with nature to stimulate and open my senses.

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?

I believe that designers should design through perception. Designers must be sensitive. The main axis of space design should be space functionality. The designer completes the functional planning of the space through aesthetics. Space cannot be over-decorated.

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?

Taiwan. Yes, it is. The advantage of working in the design industry is that you can feel the meaning of life in the process of working as a designer. As for me, I don't think there is any disadvantage to being a designer. I do believe that It is a challenge to become a good designer. If one can't overcome it, it means she/he simply has to learn more.

How do you work with companies?

I think it is best to do it through in-depth communication and meetings before and during the co-operation.

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

I think we should allow the designers to be more creative in conceptualizing the design projects. In addition to a positive personality and professional ability, the most important thing for a good designer is that she/he has to have a sense of responsibility and honor.

Can you talk a little about your design process?

I always treat design projects like my friends. In the design process, I try to get to know this friend in different ways. I try to understand the environment of the design projects. I learn from those special "friends." I have always been humbled in the process. It is a journey of humility. They all taught me a lot. I think they all have been a process of learning.

What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?

Entrance, dining space, bedroom, courtyard, and bathroom.

Can you describe a day in your life?

I go to bed late and get up early, but I never feel tired or bored.

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

You should read more and see more. You should travel as much as you can. You should learn from nature. You should be humbled and listen to other people and know their needs while you can also be your own lead.

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

After becoming a designer, I realized my influence on society. I, therefore, felt that I must avoid expanding my personal ego. Design is not about "me." It is about the clients and the society. I understand that I have to be more humbled and responsible. The disadvantage of being a designer is that I don’t sleep enough.

What is your "golden rule" in design?

Respect the environment, the nature, and human beings.

What skills are most important for a designer?

The following are important for designers: the concept of sustainability, philosophical thinking, aesthetic training, understanding and concept of structure, and communication skills.

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

AutoCAD, Revit, Adobe Illustrator, Office.

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

Whenever we start a new project, we always spend a lot of time in in-depth communication and meetings. To discuss the needs of the project is crucial.

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

It depends.

What was your most important job experience?

Teaching.

Who are some of your clients?

2020, Chung Hua University, the interior design project of Room 715 (the intern hotel of Chung Hwa University College of Tourism).

2018, Chung Hua University, Architecture and Interior Design project for Lago Bistro.

2012, Mr. Wang, Interior Design of office and store project for DONG JIE Food Company.

2010, Mr. Wang, Residential Interior Design.

2009, Miss Yang, Residential Interior Design.

2007, Miss Yang, Residential Interior Design.

2004, Mr. Hsieh, Residential Interior Design.

2002, Providence University, First Place in the competition of design and planning of the gate and square of the university.

2002, Providence University, First Place in the design competition of the elevator extension project (School of Management, School of Science, Female Dormitory).

2002, Providence University, First Place in the design competition of the additional construction project (Faculty of Literature).

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

The designs with functionality and displaying of spatial balance and material characteristics are my favorite.

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

I'm thinking about the link between circular economy and design. I have no final idea yet.

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

Through the teaching of design, I lead students to practice the knowledge they learn from the classroom. I also develop my own design.

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

I am designing the room of 715 Camellia for the Intern Hotel of the Dept. of Tourism of Chung Hua University.

How can people contact you?

linda.train@msa.hinet.net

Keep Reading

More Designer Interviews

Read designers.org interviews to discover the philosophy, the creative process and the work of more award-winning designers.

Sponsored

Explore Beyond Designers.org

Discover products, services and opportunities from our advertising partners.

Good Design Deserves Great Recognition

The A' Design Award is an international, juried accolade for good design. Take part in the A' Design Award to get an opportunity to earn meritocratic recognition, gain fame, prestige and publicity for your work. Nominate your work for the A' Design Award and compete for the coveted A' Design Prize.

Nominate

Data Source

The designer interview questions and answers published in our interview page with Ming-Ling Yang come from Designer Interviews, the international platform where world's top designers, star architects, creators and innovators are interviewed.