Interviews met Yuxi Liu

I began my undergraduate studies in graphic design at SVA - School of Visual Arts in New York in 2016. I set up my own design studio after my undergraduate, and I did a lot of freelance jobs. The clients include but are not limited to Tencent, NYEAA, ESOCCO, MAGA, MacDella Cooper Foundation, ShaynaRose Interiors, etc. In 2019, I continued my Master's Studies at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn USA. During these 6 years of study and design, I fell madly in love with design and art. And, I always believed I am a talented designer. After I graduated, I got my first full-time job in a Design Agency in New York, and I have been working here for 3 years now. I was responsible for the leading design of our creative group and led the designers to complete many excellent design projects

My trajectory as a designer and artist started when I was 5 years old. As a child, my love for the arts was expressed through freehand drawing, classical piano, and dancing lessons. I continued my interest. I have ever been a lover of art and becoming a designer provides me to express all my feelings and my artistic side through my artwork.

My design habit is to spend most of my energy on brainstorming and sketching. Before starting the design, I should fully develop my inspiration and brain. In the design experiment, from a variety of ways to try. Different combinations of media and materials can create different effects. In terms of effective presentation, the design's functional, aesthetic, and creative aspects should be considered and measured. Design is constantly changing and reflecting to become better and better.

I feel free. I can be myself and this is way too important for me. I think every project lets me create a better path for future work. My inspiration many times comes from nature. Also from social problems, from my daily routine, and from the people who I work with.

I'm a lifelong art lover. I'm a designer, an illustrator, and a design teacher. My perfectionist characteristic pushes me to keep learning new trends in various fields, including design and fashion. All those aspects have shaped me as a passionate graphic designer.

I began my undergraduate studies in graphic design at SVA - School of Visual Arts in New York. After graduation, I continued my Master's Studies at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn NY. During these 6 years of study and design, I fell madly in love with design and art. I got my first full-time job in a Design Agency in New York after leaving school. My works focus on the fields of visual identity, UI/UX, product and packaging design, and environmental graphic design. I always seek innovative approaches to convey values and messages through the power of design. In the future, I hope to continue to deepen my design attainments and abilities. Exposure to different areas of design projects, including but not limited to product design, interior design, and UI/UX design. I hope I can set up my own design company in the near future.

Be brave and confident. Hard work never betrays you.

I think I have only one suggestion to my fellow designers: Stay out of your comfort zone and keep moving on. Sometimes we can satisfy what we've done already and stop moving on to the next level. That is the one thing that we should avoid as creative professionals.

After waking up, I prepare my breakfast and take the train to reach my office to do all my business tasks and whatever needs to get done. I usually try to have a day each week for relaxing and reading some design books or movies.

I always stick with my own personal design style.

Instead of seeking to follow a trend, I always stick with my own personal design style and try to create particular approaches for each type of client. Perhaps a trend for me is innovation in the methodologies we apply and being disruptive when designing.

A good design should serve the target customer well, and balance functionality and aesthetics. Everyone has a particular opinion of what the design presented， but the design style should focus on the brief and the client's needs.

I love learning about new technologies and trying to apply them to my artwork. I believe that the progress of technology can serve designers to present their works better. I created "Dear Home Museum, " a constantly updated interior design virtual exhibition during the pandemic. My goal is to increase people's interest and ability in interior design. Dear Home as a virtual museum platform brings endless Interior design inspirations and ideas; The museum has a unique, fun design learning program that allows people to experience the fun of design in a game. Participants can create a virtual space on the platform, exhibit their original interior design works, and share their stories in different display forms. I believe design is not out of reach, everyone can do their home design.

The museum is also an educational platform to show new design inspirations and to express people's love for home. participants can get design inspiration, elevate design passion and skills, and build personal design styles on the platform. ​

My favorite designer is Dieter Rams, his “Ten Principles for Good Design” is really inspiring.

I live in New York, a city full of art and diverse cultures. My ideas and designs are always affected by the city I am living. This bustling city fills my mind with new things and cultures every day. I keep getting inspired. But sometimes I need to go to the peaceful countryside to change my mind. Peace and nature give me different inspirations.

I hope that my creative work will bring energy and joy to people's lives and contribute to a healthier world. At the same time, I hope some of my product design and service design can serve the target group well. A good designer is also a problem solver, and I want my designs to provide more effective functionality while providing aesthetics.

A‘Design Award is a good platform for designers to find design inspiration and make artistic exchanges. I am very honored to see the excellent works of designers from all over the world here.

Station Market is a food market brand that provides customized mushroom coffee products for different ages and needs. Mushroom has a lot of functions that can elevate people's brain and focus, boost energy with less caffeine, and supplement daily nutrition. I extracted the mushroom ingredients in coffee, abstractly distorted the extracted colors and shapes, and finally took the form of illustrations as the primary visual image of the coffee packaging.

In the design process, I focus on the design of abstract illustrations and hope to convey the expression of different coffee components to customers through my illustrations. I hope my graphic design is not only aesthetic but also functional. It is not only a coffee packaging, but also a work of art.

I hope this product can be known by more people and like this packaging design. I plan to exhibit this artwork on more design platforms.

This project took me about one month, from research, inspiration, visual experiment, and illustration drawing to the presentation of the final work. I spent a long time on illustration design to achieve a perfect effect.

The coffee industry is a highly competitive market, and different groups of people lack knowledge of mushroom coffee, they have different demands for product function, taste, and appearance. Before making this packaging, I spent a lot of time researching the function of mushroom coffee, I want to show the difference between mushroom coffee through exquisite packaging and also convey the knowledge of mushroom coffee through illustrations.

Yes, I am welcome to sell the production rights.

I have always wanted to apply my artistic drawing skills to commercial design works. And this project is very suitable to present my idea perfectly.

Coffee lovers and also health seekers

Unlike regular coffee, which can contribute to anxiety and insomnia, adding mushrooms has more health benefits. The customer chooses Station Market because they can gain nutrients and knowledge of mushroom coffee while having an amazing taste. Therefore, in the design, I focused on the mushroom element and used an abstract illustration to convey different mushroom elements. The smooth brushstrokes and rich colors extracted from the mushroom give customers a comfortable visual experience and also represent the silky taste of the coffee.

Station Market is actually the brand name

I used Photoshop and Illustrator for making the visual packaging and used Cinema4D for making the 3D rendering

The most distinctive aspect of this work is that the illustration on the package is a combination of abstraction and concreteness, conveying a sense of the combination of vision and smell

I completed this project by myself.

The cross-platform design process is exciting. From digital to physical, packaging to web design, and coffee campaign design. This interesting and educational experience is not only for me but also for all customers. I express this mushroom coffee's high-grade and silky taste through abstract illustrations and delicate packaging. Customers gain nutrients and knowledge of mushroom coffee and enjoy the mushroom coffee factory experience while having a fantastic taste.

Analysis of coffee markets includes competitive brands, target customers of the mushroom coffee industry, the demand for coffee in different age groups, the nutrition of mushroom coffee, and the research on the ingredients of mushroom coffee. This project was designed after a lot of research and analysis and the questionnaire survey.

Because I am very satisfied with this work, I hope it can be seen by more people.

The process of completing each work is a learning process. From research, brainstorming, visual experiment, and finally with the help of design software to complete the work presentation. Each step brought me many new improvements. The improvement of knowledge in different fields also makes me a more comprehensive designer

I began my undergraduate studies in graphic design at SVA - School of Visual Arts in New York. I set up my own design studio after my undergraduate, and I did a lot of freelance jobs. The clients include but are not limited to Tencent, NYEAA, ESOCCO, MAGA, MacDella Cooper Foundation, ShaynaRose Interiors, etc. Later, I continued my Master's Studies at Pratt Institute in Brooklyn USA. During these 6 years of study and design, I fell madly in love with design and art. And, I always believed I am a talented designer. After I graduated, I got my first full-time job in a Design Agency in New York, and I have been working here for 3 years now. I was responsible for the leading design of our creative group and led the designers to complete many excellent design projects

My trajectory as a designer and artist started when I was 5 years old. As a child, my love for the arts was expressed through freehand drawing, classical piano, and dancing lessons. I continued my interest. I have ever been a lover of art and becoming a designer provides me to express all my feelings and my artistic side through my artwork.

My choices follow my heart and instinct.

My professional interests and capabilities include digital design, UI/UX design, visual identity design, product and packaging design, and campaign and environmental design.

The balance between aesthetics and function is the premise of a good design. Know the intent of the project, whether it meets the needs of the user, and whether it respects and harmonizes the surrounding environment. Be brave, do what you love, and stick to it. Young people should not be afraid of making mistakes, and hesitation is the source of pain.

A great designer exceeds all the expectations of the clients.

A good design could be improved and adjusted many times. The user’s needs and the project’s intention are the design premises, Check the design to see whether it balances the aesthetics and function.

A good design gives back the investment through functionality, aesthetics, and a positive impact on society.

I will design a series of interesting and interactive device designs, a series of sculptures or devices that make people think beautiful and positive, and a series of designs that can release the pressure people. so that people can experience happiness and fun in interaction with the design.

Keep your mind fresh and open to endless inspiration and imagination. Try different creative visual experiments and have fun with design.

Dieter Rams, Stefan Sagmeister

Design for love. Design to solve problems, design to make society better, and design to make people happier.

I guess I might open a coffee shop or a bakery

The design has already become a part of my life. Observe the new world through the perspective of design.

My mom has always supported my dreams unconditionally. She has cherished every piece of my work since I was a child. Her support and love gave me great motivation.

My interests, talents, hard work, and persistence

My design life seems like a process of breaking through and an exploratory journey to me. The birth of good design work is just like life, which involves repeated failures, self-struggle, and re-starts. Failure is frustrating and painful, but it is also the premise of success. When I was a young visual artist, I focused on the aesthetics and artistic effects of the design but ignored the functionality and rationality of the design, which leads to a lack of logic and depth in my works. I began to read the autobiographies of some artists and research the design experiences of some famous designers. Dieter Rams’s 10 good design principles have had the greatest impact on me. I realized that a good designer should be comprehensive, and good work should really solve the problem. Functional, innovative, and aesthetic, all three are indispensable elements of a good design. According to this methodology, my design process is more directional and valuable. Now I am an experienced designer. That is still an unforgettable experience for me. It was also a turning point in my design career.

When designer presents their work, people can better understand the concept and idea of design, and at the same time, the designer can get many helpful comments to help improve the work.

I always seek innovative approaches to convey values and messages through the power of design. In the future, I hope to continue to deepen my design attainments and abilities. Exposure to different areas of design projects, including but not limited to product design, interior design, and UI/UX design. I hope I can set up my own design company in the near future.

People may expect creativity, boldness, and dedication on new projects.

A good design is always in touch with our soul and positively impacts society through the works. I hope my creative work will bring energy and joy to people's lives and contribute to a healthier world. At the same time, I hope some of my product and service designs can serve the target group well. A good designer is also a problem solver, and I want my designs to provide more effective functionality while providing aesthetics.

I am working on a new beauty brand in progress for a famous American actress.

I love learning about new technologies and trying to apply them to my artwork. I believe that the progress of technology can serve designers to present their works better. I created "Dear Home Museum, " a constantly updated interior design virtual exhibition during the pandemic. My goal is to increase people's interest and ability in interior design. Dear Home as a virtual museum platform brings endless Interior design inspirations and ideas; The museum has a unique, fun design learning program that allows people to experience the fun of design in a game. Participants can create a virtual space on the platform, exhibit their original interior design works, and share their stories in different display forms. I believe design is not out of reach, everyone can do their home design.

The museum is also an educational platform to show new design inspirations and to express people's love for home. participants can get design inspiration, elevate design passion and skills, and build personal design styles on the platform. ​

I´d like to see an increase in the numbers of sustainable packaging, and new technologies of materials.

The increasing focus on user-centered design prioritizes the needs and preferences of end-users. Designers are placing greater emphasis on understanding user behavior and feedback, and designing products and services that meet their needs and expectations. And artificial intelligence will be a great assistant to help the designer create better artwork.

It depends on the kind of project. It could be from 1week- 3months

Hand sketching is the very first part of the design process. My design habit is to spend most of my energy on brainstorming and sketching. Before starting the design, I should fully develop my inspiration and brain. In the design experiment, from a variety of ways to try. Different combinations of media and materials can create different effects. In terms of effective presentation, the design's functional, aesthetic, and creative aspects should be considered and measured. Design is constantly changing and reflecting to become better and better.

Less but better, Design with purpose

I really think a great design sets the trends.

Digital design tools such as Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema4D, and Figma allow designers to create and iterate on designs quickly and easily

Adobe Creative Suite, Cinema4D, and Figma, Keyshot

The color and materials are very important to complement a good design. The design picture is composed of points, lines and surfaces, and the color determines the balance and tonality of the picture. The perfect combination of color and material can make the work more complete

I feel inspired and happy for this excellent work and its designer.

I don´t have an ideal design partner, but I believe in co-design as an opportunity of expanding the project ideas.

Some great designers I am working with.

“Ten Principles for Good Design” by Dieter Rams

Maintain the ability to explore and learn new things, learn new software and technology, and welcome to different suggestions and comments.

I want to talk with myself 10 years ago. I want to encourage the young me" Be brave, do what you love, and stick to it. Young people should not be afraid of making mistakes, and hesitation is the source of pain"

I am grateful for the award. Being famous is temporary, just like our whole life. So now is the most important time, my heart is full of gratitude and happiness.

Blue, Home, cake, Spring, meditative, "design within reach"

stay inspired and energized every day. Find happiness and inspiration from the simple life.

Yes, My interest in art started when I was 5 years old, I loved to draw and I continued my interest. I always believed I am a talented designer.

Times are changing fast, and I haven't really thought about the future. Times progress rapidly, and too many new things need us to keep learning, human life is very short, and I am grateful that I live in this era, and I will cherish every day.

My interest in art started when I was 5 years old, I loved to draw and I continued my interest. Later, I moved to New York City to complete my undergraduate and graduate degrees here. During these 6 years of study and design, I fell madly in love with design and art. And, I always believed I am a talented designer.

I am working at a product and packaging design company currently. At the same time, I am running a design studio. The studio's services include branding, logo design, UI/UX, Campaign design, environmental design, etc.

"Design" has already become a part of my life. Observe the new world through the perspective of design.

The project I enjoy the most is the project that combines aesthetics, function, and technology.

I love learning about new technologies and trying to apply them to my artwork. I believe that the progress of technology can serve designers to present their works better. I created "Dear Home Museum, " a constantly updated interior design virtual exhibition during the pandemic. My goal is to increase people's interest and ability in interior design. Dear Home as a virtual museum platform brings endless Interior design inspirations and ideas; The museum has a unique, fun design learning program that allows people to experience the fun of design in a game. Participants can create a virtual space on the platform, exhibit their original interior design works, and share their stories in different display forms. I believe design is not out of reach, everyone can do their home design.

The museum is also an educational platform to show new design inspirations and to express people's love for home. participants can get design inspiration, elevate design passion and skills, and build personal design styles on the platform. ​

I remember the first project I did for my studio was a VI design for an international fashion brand.

I actually have no particular preference for materials and technology. Materials that can meet the design needs are good. I think trying and learning new techniques should be endless. The different technologies are good helpers to help us realize our design ideas.

I like the platform that can provide me with design inspiration. Such as Behance.

Artists are very sensitive people. I need to be free of anxiety in order to unleash my creative powers. It’s not always easy, but a good playlist and quiet environment usually help me put myself in the right mindset for new artwork!

A good design should serve the target customer well, and balance functionality and aesthetics. Everyone has a particular opinion of what the design presented， but the design style should focus on the brief and the client's needs.

I feel free. I can be myself and this is way too important for me. I think every project lets me create a better path for future work. My inspiration many times comes from nature. Also from social problems, from my daily routine, and from the people who I work with.

Excited, satisfaction, joy, relief, pleasure.

Quality, aesthetics, materials, attractiveness, and multiple-purpose functionality.

I think the functionality, creativity, and aesthetics of the design and its impact on society, etc., can ultimately help us determine whether the design is good or not. I like the idea of the “ten principles of good design”, according to design legend Dieter Rams: he said that design should be innovative, make a product useful, be aesthetic, make a product understandable, be unobtrusive, be honest, be long-lasting, be thorough down to the last detail, be environmentally friendly and involve as little design as possible.

As a designer, we have the ability to evoke people’s emotions, which is, for me, one of the most rewarding aspects of this career. Art is such a sublime form of communication and we use it as a tool to direct and deliver information positively.

I think we will see the use of high-quality sustainable materials and, beyond function and aesthetic aspects, we will see the integration of technology to value the customer experience.

I think the design inspiration comes from my life and my experiences. The different cultures I find in different cities played a huge part in my development as an artist.

Simplicity is the ultimate sophistication. Minimalism with details is the main characteristic of my style.

I live in New York, a city full of art and diverse cultures. My ideas and designs are always affected by the city I am living. This bustling city fills my mind with new things and cultures every day. I keep getting inspired. But sometimes I need to go to the peaceful countryside to change my mind. Peace and nature give me different inspirations.

I worked for a long time as a creative designer in a packaging design company. I work with the design team, marketing team, and production team every day. I think the relationship you build with other members is very important.

I think that the portfolio speaks more than a thousand words. I also think that all aspects of the design process up to production are important and, as they entail different skills, it is important to evaluate management and interpersonal abilities.

The project usually starts with reference research before the initial sketches. The second part is sketching some ideas and then copying the graphite sketch to the papers used for the creation of the artwork. After that, it is necessary to put the pieces together, like a puzzle, in order to create the 3D effect of these illustrations. Once the art is finished, it is ready to be printed.

My working table, lamp, kitchen, coach

After waking up, I prepare my breakfast and take the train to reach my office to do all my business tasks and whatever needs to get done. I usually try to have a day each week for relaxing and reading some design books or movies.

My biggest advice would be that Be brave, do what you love, and stick to it. Young people should not be afraid of making mistakes, and hesitation is the source of pain.

we can get to work with what we love; we get to put our creativity and imagination to some good use; Production stage is very rewarding as you can see your design coming to life. As for the negatives, Sometimes our design is influenced by a lot of commercial factors and may not be produced 100% as it should be

I believe my golden rule is to go with instinct and don't be afraid to make mistakes. We can think of several “do’s and don’t do’s” when working as a designer, but in the end, each project is different and the only constant is our experience.

I think creativity, empathy, and open-mindedness.

Hand sketching is the very first part of the design process. I use my pencil and sketchbook to start my design. I then use Illustrator, Photoshop, Cinema 4D, and Indesign a lot to develop organized drawings.

I agree with it. Finding inspiration and doing visual experimenting with design is a long process. In addition, design is a process of repeated modification and improvement. I usually set goals for myself. When I see that I am not reaching a good result I usually do not waste time on it, but try my second idea.

It usually takes me one-two week.

Where did you get your inspiration from?

I worked for many years as a creative designer for a packaging design company.In addition, I am also a teacher with 4 years of experience. My dual career keeps me learning and progressing on the road to design

Companies in a variety of fields, including nonprofits, architecture companies, cultural companies, fashion companies, medical products companies, etc.

I love illustrative designs, the kind that allows me to tell a story using just visual elements.

I always seek innovative approaches to convey values and messages through the power of design. In the future, I hope to continue to deepen my design attainments and abilities. Exposure to different areas of design projects, including but not limited to product design, interior design, and UI/UX design. I hope I can set up my own design company in the near future.

I develop my own designs most time but work with the marketing team for production

I am working on a new beauty brand in progress for a famous American actress and influencer.

Through yuxiliudesign@gmail.com

These have been some pretty comprehensive questions! Nothing to be added!

Sustainability was a core principle from the very beginning of the KIIR project. I wanted to create a desk organizer that was not only functional and aesthetically refined but also environmentally responsible. Aluminum, being one of the most recyclable metals, naturally became the primary material.The flat-pack design evolved as a solution to reduce packaging waste and shipping volume, while also giving users an interactive, hands-on experience. By allowing customers to assemble their own organizer from a flat sheet, we minimized material usage, encouraged personal craftsmanship, and reinforced a sense of connection with the product.This approach represents a shift in office accessories — combining eco-consciousness, functionality, and a premium tactile experience — proving that sustainability and design sophistication can coexist seamlessly in everyday objects.

The inspiration for the irregular triangular modules came from the idea that order and creativity can coexist in a workspace. Triangles provide structural stability while offering a visually dynamic and modern form. Their irregular arrangement allows users to customize the layout according to their personal needs, combining flexibility with practicality.Functionally, the modularity ensures that each workspace can be organized efficiently, while aesthetically, the geometric pattern creates a sculptural, artistic presence on the desk. This combination of playful interaction, functional versatility, and refined design transforms a simple office accessory into an engaging, visually striking centerpiece that elevates the entire work environment.

Transforming a flat 2D sheet into a stable 3D desk organizer required careful engineering and material consideration. Aluminum was chosen not only for its sustainability but also for its strength, flexibility, and lightweight properties, making it ideal for folding without compromising structural integrity.To ensure ease of assembly, I designed intuitive folding guidelines directly onto the sheet, allowing users to follow a clear, step-by-step process. The triangular modules’ geometry was tested extensively to balance stability with modular adaptability. By combining precise structural calculations, user-friendly instructions, and hands-on prototyping, I was able to create a product that is both robust and approachable, allowing each user to engage in a rewarding, interactive assembly experience while guaranteeing that the final organizer is functional and durable.

Material and surface treatment were central to achieving both sophistication and functionality. Aluminum was chosen for its sustainability, recyclability, and tactile quality — it feels substantial yet lightweight, reinforcing a premium experience.The textured metal finish was carefully considered to provide visual depth, grip, and a sense of craftsmanship. It enhances the aesthetic appeal while preventing scratches and fingerprints during daily use. By combining material choice with thoughtful surface treatment, I was able to create a product that is durable, elegant, and engaging to interact with, elevating the workspace while maintaining practical usability.

Modern work habits are increasingly fluid, with people moving between rooms or working in multiple spaces throughout the day. KIIR’s modular triangular components were designed to adapt seamlessly to these flexible work environments. Users can reconfigure the modules to suit different desks, tasks, or personal preferences, creating a workspace that is both efficient and visually appealing.Portability was also a key consideration. By providing the product as a flat sheet, users can easily transport and assemble their organizer anywhere, while the foam-lined box ensures safe handling. This combination of modularity, adaptability, and portability makes KIIR a practical and stylish solution for today’s dynamic workspaces, supporting productivity without sacrificing design sophistication.

The unboxing experience was designed to reflect the premium, interactive, and sustainable nature of KIIR. Since the product is sold as a flat aluminum sheet, the packaging needed to protect the material during transit while also presenting it in an elegant and thoughtful way.I chose a rigid cardboard box with a custom foam insert to securely hold the flat sheet and prevent damage. The foam not only provides protection but also creates a sense of anticipation — when users open the box, they immediately see a neatly organized, ready-to-assemble product. This approach reinforces the hands-on, interactive experience of folding the modules into a 3D organizer while maintaining a luxurious and aesthetically pleasing presentation.The packaging therefore serves a dual purpose: functional protection and an engaging, design-conscious introduction to the product, setting the tone for the user experience from the very first moment.

Determining the dimensions and proportions of each KIIR module was guided by extensive user research and workspace analysis. I studied common office supplies, desk sizes, and how people interact with objects throughout their workday. The goal was to ensure that each triangular component could accommodate pens, notebooks, devices, and other essentials without feeling cramped or overwhelming.I also considered ergonomics and modular adaptability — the sizes needed to be versatile enough for different configurations while maintaining stability when stacked or folded. Proportions were tested through prototyping, allowing me to balance functionality, aesthetic harmony, and user interaction. The result is a system where every module fits naturally into a desk environment, providing both organization and a visually engaging, customizable workspace.

The interactive assembly process transforms KIIR from a simple desk accessory into an engaging, hands-on experience. By folding the flat aluminum sheets along intuitive guidelines, users actively participate in creating their own organizer, which fosters a sense of personal ownership and creativity.This process goes beyond functionality — it encourages mindfulness, playfulness, and a deeper connection to the workspace. Each assembled organizer becomes unique to its user, reflecting their choices and preferences, which adds emotional value and enhances satisfaction. In this way, KIIR is not just a tool for organization; it’s an immersive, creative experience that transforms the act of tidying a desk into a rewarding, personalized ritual.

The success of KIIR has reinforced my belief that workspace organization can be both functional and emotionally engaging. This design philosophy — combining modularity, interactivity, sustainability, and aesthetic refinement — can be extended to other organizational products, such as shelving, storage units, or multi-purpose office accessories.Future iterations could explore customizable configurations, tactile materials, and eco-conscious production methods to address diverse work environments, from home offices to collaborative workspaces. By keeping user engagement, personalization, and sustainability at the core, I envision a cohesive ecosystem of office solutions that not only organizes but also inspires productivity, creativity, and well-being.

Achieving harmony between minimalist aesthetics and practical functionality was central to the KIIR design. I focused on clean geometric forms, subtle textures, and modular simplicity to maintain a modern, elegant appearance, while ensuring that each component serves a clear purpose for organizing everyday office items.Accessibility was addressed by designing intuitive folding guidelines and versatile module sizes, so users of all skill levels can assemble and personalize their organizer effortlessly. The flat-pack approach, combined with protective yet minimal packaging, makes the product approachable and portable.By thoughtfully integrating visual refinement, hands-on interaction, and functional adaptability, KIIR provides a stylish, practical, and user-friendly solution that resonates with a broad audience, transforming everyday organization into a meaningful and enjoyable experience.

The idea began with my curiosity about how design can help people make healthier choices without losing the pleasure of daily rituals like drinking coffee. Mushroom coffee is a relatively new concept for many consumers, so my goal was to create packaging that bridges familiarity and discovery — maintaining the sophistication of traditional coffee branding while introducing the wellness benefits of mushrooms in an approachable, elegant way.I started by researching the ingredients, nutrition, and functions of different mushroom types such as Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail. From there, I explored how each could be visually represented through abstract marble textures and color palettes derived from coffee tones. These patterns express both the natural essence and the refined taste of the product.The final design connects science and emotion — it looks premium and artistic like traditional coffee packaging, but it subtly communicates wellness, mindfulness, and balance. By merging aesthetic pleasure with educational value, I wanted the design to let customers not only drink mushroom coffee, but also understand and experience it.

Each type of mushroom used in the coffee has its own personality — distinct flavors, textures, and health benefits — and I wanted to capture that individuality visually. Instead of illustrating the mushrooms literally, I chose to express their essence through abstract marble textures. The flowing, organic patterns symbolize the natural growth of mushrooms and the smooth, layered taste of the coffee itself.The inspiration came from observing how colors and textures can evoke emotion and sensory experience. I extracted color palettes from roasted coffee tones and the natural hues of each mushroom — warm browns, earthy reds, creamy whites, and subtle golds — to create a refined, harmonious visual system. The marble effect also suggests richness and depth, echoing the “silky” and premium quality of the product.By translating natural ingredients into sophisticated abstract visuals, I aimed to make the design both artistic and informative — inviting customers to feel the purity, energy, and wellness that mushroom coffee represents, even before they take their first sip.

My design process began with in-depth research into the nutritional and functional properties of each mushroom species — Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail. Each of them offers unique health benefits, and I wanted the visual design to mirror those characteristics in a subtle, emotional way.For example, Chaga, known for its earthy flavor and immune-supporting properties, is represented with deep, grounded brown tones and dense marble textures. Reishi, associated with calmness and relaxation, features softer gradients and flowing patterns. Cordyceps, known for energy and vitality, inspired more dynamic lines and brighter golden hues, while Turkey Tail, rich in antioxidants, is reflected through layered, vibrant textures that suggest balance and renewal.These color and pattern decisions were not only aesthetic but symbolic — translating scientific information into visual cues that communicate mood, function, and personality. Through this research-driven approach, each flavor feels distinct yet unified under the same brand identity, giving consumers a sensory and educational experience through design.

From the beginning, my goal was to design packaging that not only attracts the eye but also educates and engages. Mushroom coffee is still new to many consumers, and it carries rich nutritional and functional information that could easily feel overwhelming if presented too directly. My challenge was to balance clarity with visual harmony.I started by identifying the key messages customers truly need — what each mushroom does for the body, and how it differs from regular coffee. Then I translated that information into concise, visually guided storytelling rather than dense text. I used color, iconography, and layout hierarchy to help users intuitively understand the product’s function.Aesthetically, I relied on refined typography, clean spacing, and the marble patterns to maintain a premium and artistic feel. The educational elements were seamlessly integrated — informative, but not intrusive. This balance allows the packaging to remain elegant and aspirational, while still helping customers learn and connect with the wellness value behind the product.

Maintaining visual consistency across multiple platforms was one of the most exciting parts of this project. My goal was to make sure that whether a customer encountered Station Market on a package, a website, or in a coffee shop, they would immediately recognize the same tone — modern, natural, and educational.To achieve this, I first built a strong visual identity system centered around the abstract marble textures, coffee-inspired color palette, and minimalist typography. These core elements became the foundation for every medium. On digital platforms, I emphasized motion and interactivity — the marble patterns became animated visuals that evoke the flow of aroma or steam. For the physical packaging and coffee campaign materials, I focused on tactile qualities — refined finishes, texture contrast, and balanced composition.Throughout the process, I created detailed brand guidelines to ensure every touchpoint reflected the same emotional language: calm sophistication, warmth, and curiosity. This holistic approach allowed the design to feel unified while adapting naturally to each medium’s unique experience.

In such a competitive market, I knew the design needed to stand out instantly while also communicating the unique value of mushroom coffee. My strategy was to combine visual sophistication with clear storytelling — so that the packaging captures attention first, and then naturally informs.Visually, I moved away from the typical earthy, rustic aesthetic often seen in health or wellness products. Instead, I chose an elevated, artistic direction using marble textures, refined typography, and a clean layout. This gave the brand a sense of modern luxury, appealing to both design-conscious and health-conscious consumers.To make the packaging informative without feeling cluttered, I carefully structured the hierarchy of information — highlighting the mushroom type and its key benefits in concise, readable sections. Subtle icons and color cues help customers quickly understand each variety’s function.By merging emotional appeal with functional clarity, the design stands out on shelves as both a beautiful object and a source of knowledge, encouraging consumers to discover the wellness story behind every cup of coffee.

Appealing to different consumer groups while keeping the brand identity cohesive was one of my key design objectives. Each mushroom variety—Chaga, Reishi, Cordyceps, and Turkey Tail—has its own personality and attracts slightly different audiences based on its benefits. For example, Cordyceps appeals to active, energetic users, while Reishi is favored by those seeking calm and relaxation.To unify these distinctions under one brand, I built a modular visual system. The foundation—typography, structure, and overall composition—remains consistent across all packages to reinforce brand recognition. Within this framework, I allowed flexibility through color and texture variation: deeper tones and dense marble patterns for grounding varieties like Chaga, lighter flowing motifs for soothing Reishi, and more vibrant hues for energizing Cordyceps.This approach ensured that each flavor could express its unique benefits and mood while visually belonging to the same family. It also made the brand accessible to a broader audience—health enthusiasts, coffee lovers, and design-conscious consumers alike—through a unified aesthetic language that communicates quality, mindfulness, and balance.

For this project, I wanted the tactile experience to match the refined visual identity — allowing customers to feel the premium quality of the product even before tasting it. The “silky” aesthetic wasn’t just visual; it extended to the materials and finishing techniques that communicate sophistication and care.I selected a matte-coated paper stock with a smooth, velvety touch to echo the soft, balanced texture of mushroom coffee. Subtle spot UV gloss was applied to highlight the marble patterns, creating a contrast between matte and shine that adds depth and elegance. This interplay of textures reflects the product’s balance between energy and calm — between the richness of coffee and the wellness of mushrooms.In addition, I used refined embossing to enhance key elements such as the logo and flavor names, reinforcing the sense of craftsmanship and authenticity. Every material choice was made to elevate the sensory experience — not just to attract attention on the shelf, but to communicate the high-grade nature of the product through touch, reflection, and detail.

One of the most unexpected discoveries during the design process was how deeply consumer perception could be shaped by texture and color psychology. Initially, my focus was on communicating the nutritional and functional value of mushroom coffee, but through prototyping and user feedback, I realized that the feeling of the packaging was just as important as the information it carried.For example, when testing different finishes, I found that a matte surface with soft contrast immediately conveyed calmness and trust — values aligned with the wellness benefits of mushroom coffee. Similarly, the marble patterns, which began as a purely visual concept, evolved into a metaphor for the blending of nature and refinement. That discovery guided the entire visual direction, helping the design feel organic yet luxurious.Another meaningful realization was how interconnected the physical and digital touchpoints became. The visual system developed for the packaging naturally extended into web and spatial design, creating a cohesive brand ecosystem. These insights not only shaped the final outcome but also deepened my understanding of how design can emotionally and educationally connect with consumers on multiple levels.

I see Mushroom Coffee Food Packaging as part of a broader shift toward wellness-focused, educational, and sensory-driven design in the beverage industry. As consumers increasingly seek products that support health without compromising enjoyment, packaging can play a key role in translating functional benefits into an approachable, aspirational experience.With this project, I demonstrated that wellness-oriented products don’t have to look clinical or generic — they can be refined, artistic, and emotionally engaging while still communicating their functional value. I believe future trends will increasingly blend science, storytelling, and tactile aesthetics, creating products that educate, inspire, and delight simultaneously.By integrating research-driven insights, cross-platform consistency, and sensory sophistication, I hope this design serves as a model for how functional beverages can elevate the consumer experience, bridging health, taste, and design innovation in meaningful ways.