Interviste con PMT Partners Ltd.

Sintered Stone, a large-format, weather-resistant, and durable engineered material, fills the robust demand in the architecture and decoration industry for large-scale stone, significantly reducing environmental resource depletion associated with quarrying. SHEERIN Pavilion for Guangzhou Design Week 2023, serving as a showcase for sintered stone, employs artificial stone to simulate natural rock, capturing the spatial ambiance of an artificially mined stone canyon. This process of simulation and reproduction establishes an intriguing juxtaposition, where the attributes of the material and the spatial atmosphere interchange and blend the concepts of "artificial" and "natural," creating a captivating and playful environment.

We strive to create a quiet and sacred space that steers clear of dazzling visual effects to encourage reflection and solitude in an era dominated by ubiquitous visual spectacles. Sustainability is a crucial focus for contemplation, and this is precisely why the design places great emphasis on demonstrating recyclable exhibition construction. In China alone, more than 11,000 exhibitions are held annually, attended by a total of 86 million people and generating 119 million cubic meters of construction waste, equivalent to the volume of seven Beijing Olympic stadiums. In the midst of these visually spectacular events, it is essential for us to reflect and act.

We plan to use this award-winning design as a case study for sustainable development, further deepening its design concepts in environmental protection and sustainability. We will seek to use more eco-friendly materials, adopt energy-saving production processes, and implement strategies for recycling and reuse throughout the product lifecycle to minimize environmental impact and promote efficient resource utilization.

It took approximately three months to design this particular concept.

We designed this particular concept to meet the demand for innovative products in the market, combined with creative inspiration from our team.

We have already produced a prototype and plan to use it for display in our corporate showroom. We currently have no plans to provide it for use by other companies.

We designed this particular type of work to challenge conventions, explore new creative directions, and deliver a fresh experience to users.

Yes, we were influenced by other architectural works as well as designs from various other fields, incorporating creative elements and ideas from diverse domains into our design.

Our design targets users seeking innovation and high-quality products.

What sets this design apart is its unique combination of sustainability and innovation.

When naming this design, we chose a name that directly reflects the core functionality and features of the product. The name highlights the main benefits and uses of the product.

For this project, we used CAD software, 3D modeling tools, and image editing software.

The SHEERIN Pavilion for 2023 Guangzhou Design Week provides an exhibition space for sintered stones. Artificial stones are employed to simulate the natural ones, aiming to present a spatial ambiance of a mined artificial stone canyon. This simulation and representation create a captivating juxtaposition. The systematic design of space, scene, and structure not only presents the unity of form and force, and the connection between behavior and space, but also provides the possibility of recyclability of the exhibition venue. It is a exploration of sustainable exhibition construction.

We collaborated with skilled technicians to complete this design.

Technology played a central role in this design, enabling innovative features and precise execution.

This is a showcase space for sintered stone materials, primarily aimed at commercial presentation. However, we are keen to avoid overwhelming visual intensity in this commercial exhibition. Therefore, we have created a place of solitude and contemplation through a calm and sacred interior design that is metaphorical of stone mines and caves. To achieve the unique shape of the inverted pyramid, we used PK.PM structural software verifying the feasibility of the steel and timber structure in this configuration, ensuring unity of form and mechanics. The modular design also allows the exhibition space to be reused, which represents our thinking about sustainable design and an attempt to reduce the waste of resources caused by various commercial renovations.

The most significant challenge in this project is to harmonize the relationship between form and mechanics. Our goal is to create an honest and consistent work that has no discrepancies between its external appearance and its internal forces. For an architect, it is essential to bridge the gap between the invisible forces and the visible form. Therefore, a considerable amount of effort went into structural calculations, iterative development of the form, feedback with the mechanical model and finally the replication of the construction nodes through 1:1 models.

Another important consideration was the modular design. To ensure recyclability as part of a sustainable design, we adopted a modular frame system for the skin. At the same time, it was crucial to ensure the convenience of these scaffolds during installation, disassembly, transportation and reassembly. Therefore, a lot of time was invested in iterating the relationships between all components within the entire system.

We decided to submit our design to an international design competition because we believe it is innovative and unique, worthy of competing with top design works from around the world.

During the design process of this work, we learned to be more flexible in facing challenges and continuously improve our creativity and problem-solving skills.

No more, thank you.

Since childhood, I've had a passion for art and design. This love for creativity led me to pursue formal education in the field, where I refined my skills and developed a deeper understanding of aesthetics. The opportunity to blend creativity with problem-solving inspired me to become a designer.

PMT Partners is an architecture and interior design practice launched in 2016 and currently collaborating with clients in China and around the globe. In an era of precipitous and extreme change, lead architects Yan Hu, Weihao Zhao and Zhe Zeng take an open-minded and creative but pragmatic approach to the work, creating projects that manage to be somehow both radical and restrained.

For me, "design" is the integration of creativity, functionality, and aesthetics to create meaningful solutions to address specific problems or meet particular needs. It's not just about appearances; it encompasses considerations such as user experience, functionality, and sustainability.

I enjoy designing works that challenge me creatively and have a meaningful impact. Projects that involve innovative technology, sustainable solutions, or human-centered design are particularly fulfilling. I love working on designs that solve real-world problems, enhance user experiences, and push the boundaries of traditional design concepts.

One of my favorite designs is an interior space I created for a boutique clothing store. The design features a modern and minimalist aesthetic, with clean lines and neutral tones to showcase the clothing collection. I incorporated elements like adjustable lighting and versatile displays to enhance the shopping experience for customers. The result is a stylish and functional space that complements the clothing while providing a comfortable environment for shoppers to explore and try on garments.

The first thing I designed for my own company was our brand identity, including the logo, color scheme, and visual elements. It was an exciting and important step in establishing our company's identity and setting the tone for our brand. Creating a cohesive and visually appealing brand identity was essential for conveying our values and attracting clients.

My favorite material is wood. Its natural warmth and versatility make it timeless for design projects, adding sophistication and a connection to nature to any space.

I feel most creative when I have the time to relax and focus on exploring new ideas. This could be in the quiet of early mornings, during walks in nature, engaging in conversations with like-minded individuals, or participating in activities that spark inspiration. Additionally, challenges and encountering new problems also stimulate my creativity, prompting me to think of innovative solutions.

During the design process, I focus on several key aspects:

Functionality、Aesthetics、Sustainability、User Experience、Innovation

When I design, I feel a mix of excitement and focus, along with a sense of fulfillment when I see my ideas come to life and positively impact others.

When my designs are realized, I feel a sense of validation and excitement. Witnessing ideas transformed into tangible creations that resonate with others fills me with a profound sense of accomplishment and joy.

A successful design effectively solves a problem, resonates with its audience, and combines functionality with aesthetic appeal.

When judging a design, I first consider its functionality, whether it effectively meets the needs of its users. Then, I evaluate its aesthetics, looking at visual appeal, coherence, and creativity. Additionally, I assess how well the design communicates its intended message or purpose.

Designers have a responsibility to create solutions that meet societal needs while minimizing negative environmental impacts, promoting sustainability, accessibility, and ethical design choices.

The design field is rapidly evolving with the integration of technologies like AI, VR, and 3D printing, a focus on sustainability and ethical practices, user-centered approaches, and interdisciplinary collaboration. The future of design will emphasize remote work, personalization, and customization, leading to innovative and responsible solutions.

Our last exhibition was held before the pandemic at a futuristic exhibition hall in Guangzhou, China. It was titled "Uncharted Territory," an exploration of our visions for future architecture. We hope to hold our next exhibition in Europe or other parts of the world.

My design inspiration comes from nature, art, architecture, culture, and everyday life. To fuel my creativity, I explore new places, observe different cultures, attend art exhibitions, read books, and collaborate with other creatives.

My design style is modern and minimalist, focusing on simplicity, functionality, and clean aesthetics. I'm drawn to clean lines and subtle color palettes, prioritizing user experience. I explore this style further for its timeless appeal and effectiveness in conveying messages. My approach involves thorough research, empathy with users, iterative prototyping, and attention to detail to ensure visually pleasing and user-friendly designs.

I live in Guangzhou, a city with a rich cultural heritage. Its history and multiculturalism deeply influence my designs, integrating elements of Lingnan architecture and Cantonese culture. Living here provides constant exposure to traditional craftsmanship, but balancing heritage with modern trends can be challenging in design.

As a company owner, I work with designers by clearly communicating our brand identity, target audience, and project objectives. We collaborate closely throughout the design process, providing feedback and guidance to ensure the final result aligns with our company's vision and goals. Effective communication, mutual respect, and a shared commitment to excellence are key to our successful partnership.

Companies should clearly define project goals and communicate openly with designers. To select a good designer, review portfolios, assess relevant experience, and conduct interviews to evaluate communication and cultural fit.

Sure! My design process involves thorough research, brainstorming, prototyping, feedback, iteration, and final execution with attention to detail and usability.

Some of my favorite design items at home include a sleek Scandinavian chair, a minimalist pendant lamp, a vintage Persian rug, a modern coffee table with clean lines, and a set of handmade ceramic mugs.

Of course! My typical day starts with exercise and breakfast, followed by diving into design work. I collaborate with colleagues or clients, take short breaks, and unwind in the evening with reading or spending time with loved ones.

For young designers, my advice is to stay curious, keep learning, and build a strong portfolio. Embrace experimentation, seek diverse inspiration, and be open to feedback. Success in design often comes from perseverance, passion, and pushing boundaries.

Being a designer offers the opportunity for creativity, innovation, and problem-solving, allowing you to bring ideas to life and make a positive impact on the world. However, it can also be challenging, with tight deadlines, subjective feedback, and the pressure to constantly stay updated with evolving trends and technologies.

My "golden rule" in design is to always prioritize the end-user. Design with empathy, understanding their needs, preferences, and pain points, to create solutions that are not just visually appealing but also functional and meaningful.

The most important skills for a designer include creativity, problem-solving abilities, proficiency in design software, strong communication skills, attention to detail, and the ability to collaborate effectively with others. Additionally, staying updated with industry trends and having a passion for learning are crucial for success in the field.

I primarily use Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) for graphic design, AutoCAD and SketchUp for architectural design.

To manage my time effectively, I prioritize tasks based on deadlines and importance, breaking them down into smaller, manageable chunks. I set specific goals and allocate time for each task, utilizing time management techniques like the Pomodoro Technique to maintain focus and productivity. Regular breaks and proper rest are also crucial for maintaining creativity and avoiding burnout.

The time to design an object varies based on complexity, ranging from days for simple projects to months for more intricate designs, influenced by factors like scope and client needs. Effective communication, thorough research, and efficient workflow management are crucial for project timelines.

As a designer, one of the most frequently asked questions I receive is "What inspired you for this design?" People are often curious about the creative process behind a design and what influences or sources of inspiration led to its creation.

As an architect and company leader, one of my most valuable experiences lies in fostering team growth. Providing guidance and developmental opportunities not only drive project success but also cultivate a positive work environment. Witnessing team members achieve their goals is immensely fulfilling, reaffirming the importance of effective leadership.

This is a trade secret.

I enjoy architectural design the most. Creating spaces that blend functionality with aesthetics and positively impact people's lives is incredibly fulfilling. The process of turning concepts into tangible structures that shape communities is both challenging and rewarding, making architectural design my passion.

My future plans involve continuing to grow and evolve in my field, expanding my skill set, and taking on more challenging projects. I aspire to make meaningful contributions to the design community and pursue opportunities that allow me to push the boundaries of creativity and innovation.

I work both independently and collaboratively, depending on project requirements. Some designs I develop myself, while others involve teamwork with colleagues or clients. This flexibility allows me to leverage collective expertise and creativity for comprehensive design solutions.

I'm currently working on a project to redesign a local community center. We're focusing on creating a more inclusive and functional space that better serves the diverse needs of the community. The design incorporates elements of sustainability and accessibility to ensure that the center remains a welcoming and accessible hub for all residents. We're excited about the potential positive impact this project can have on the community, and we're looking forward to seeing it come to fruition.

You can contact me via email or through our company website. Our email address is pmtpartners@163.com, and our company website is http://www.pmt-partners.com/.

No more, thank you.