Tim Jen

Specialized in Interior Design.

Tim Jen

About Tim Jen

squaremeter Design Studio specializes in interior design with a focus on the integrated planning and execution of commercial and residential spaces. Its team develops site-specific commercial environments by incorporating local cultural context and spatial functionality, while offering highly customized solutions for residential interiors. The company explores the application of diverse materials across varying conditions and collaborates across disciplines to deliver end-to-end services, from conceptual development to on-site execution. Through strategic spatial thinking and material research, it remains attentive to user experience and everyday interaction, continuously engaging in the dialogue between built environments and societal change.

  • Winner of the A' Design Award.
  • Specialized in Interior Design.
  • Original Design.
  • Creative, Diligent and Innovative.
  • All Designs
  • Interior
Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant

Izakaya 9am 5pm Restaurant

Interior Design

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Interview with Tim Jen

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 hold a Master's degree in Interior Architecture and Design and have been working in the field for over 10 years. Since childhood, I have had a passion for art and space, enjoying turning imagination into tangible environments. Becoming a designer was a natural choice because I wanted to improve people’s lives through design.
Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
I am currently the Design Director at Squaremeter Design Studio, a firm focusing on restaurant and residential spaces. We emphasize integrating local culture and sustainable materials to create spaces with meaningful stories.
What is "design" for you?
Design, to me, is a bridge that solves problems and enhances quality of life. It combines aesthetics and functionality, creating emotional connections between people and spaces.
What kinds of works do you like designing most?
I enjoy designing restaurant and residential spaces most, as these require not only functionality but also a unique cultural atmosphere that conveys warmth and stories to the users.
What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
My favorite project is “Izakaya 9am 5pm,” a restaurant that uses local materials and cultural elements. It successfully integrates regional identity into the design, creating an authentic and lively spatial experience.
What was the first thing you designed for a company?
The first project I designed for a company was a small café, where I was mainly responsible for space planning and interior renovation.
What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
I prefer natural materials such as wood and stone because they have natural textures and warmth, and are more environmentally friendly.
When do you feel the most creative?
I feel most creative during brainstorming sessions with my team or when visiting sites in person. Inspiration often comes from the environment and interaction.
Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
I focus on functionality, material harmony, and cultural integration to ensure the design is not only aesthetic but also practical and meaningful.
What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
When designing, I feel excited and focused; it’s a process of materializing ideas full of challenges and a sense of accomplishment.
What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
When my designs are realized, I feel deeply satisfied and proud, as it is the result of hard work and a gift back to the users.
What makes a design successful?
A successful design addresses user needs, aesthetic expression, and environmental context simultaneously, and remains accepted and loved over time.
When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
I first consider whether the design meets functional requirements, then evaluate aesthetics and detail expression.
From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
Designers have a responsibility to pursue sustainability, respect cultural diversity, and create works friendly to society and the environment.
How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
Design is evolving by integrating technology and humanities, emphasizing sustainability and social impact. The future of design will be smarter and more human-centered.
Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
My inspiration mainly comes from nature, local culture, and daily life details. I enjoy traveling and observing people's lifestyles to fuel creativity.
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 leans toward minimalism and naturalness, focusing on material authenticity and spatial warmth. I aim for designs that reflect cultural depth and practicality.
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, where the rich cultural heritage deeply influences my design. The advantage is abundant inspiration; the downside is a limited market scale.
How do you work with companies?
We value communication with clients, understand their brand and needs, and maintain transparency and collaboration throughout the design process.
What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
I suggest companies clearly express their needs, respect designers' expertise, and select designers with relevant experience and good communication skills.
Can you talk a little about your design process?
We start with research, develop concepts and sketches, then move to detail refinement and implementation supervision. Each stage involves close communication with the client.
What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
My favorite home design items include a handcrafted wooden table, Nordic-style chairs, natural stone lamps, fabric curtains, and minimalist ceramic vases.
Can you describe a day in your life?
A typical day starts with checking emails, then team meetings, site visits, followed by design work and client communications. Evenings are for reading or traveling to find inspiration.
Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
Stay curious, keep learning and practicing, and be brave to express your ideas. Don’t fear failure; design is a continuous growth journey.
From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
The positives include creating impactful work; the negatives involve facing time pressure and challenging client demands.
What is your "golden rule" in design?
Design must be user-centered, with functionality and aesthetics both essential.
What skills are most important for a designer?
Creative thinking, communication skills, problem-solving ability, and technical knowledge are key.
Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
I often use AutoCAD, 3Ds MAX, Adobe Suite; tablets and hand sketches are also indispensable. Inspiration comes from design books and travel experiences.
Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
I make clear plans, prioritize tasks, and regularly review progress to ensure efficiency.
How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
Depending on project complexity, it usually takes from a few weeks to several months.
What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
The most frequent question is, "How do you balance aesthetics and functionality?"
What was your most important job experience?
Designing “Izakaya 9am 5pm” was a key experience, challenging me to combine culture with modern design.
Who are some of your clients?
Our clients include local restaurant brands, private homeowners.
What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
I enjoy cultural fusion restaurant designs most because they tell stories and influence dining experiences.
What are your future plans? What is next for you?
I plan to expand into international markets and pursue cross-disciplinary collaborations to promote sustainable design.
Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
I am currently designing a residential project integrating natural elements, looking forward to sharing it when completed.
How can people contact you?
Feel free to contact me via Squaremeter Design Studio’s social media(https://www.instagram.com/squaremeter_designstudio) or email(m2designstudio23@gmail.com ).
Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
I’d like to emphasize that design is not just a profession but a way to impact the world. Thank you for the opportunity to share my story.

Designer of the Day Interview with Tim Jen

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I have over 10 years of experience in the design industry with a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design. I have worked for prominent design firms and served clients ranging from local restaurant brands to private homeowners. Currently, I am the Design Director at Squaremeter Design Studio, overseeing multidisciplinary design projects.
How did you become a designer?
I’ve been passionate about art and spatial design since childhood. I chose to study Interior Architecture in graduate school and gained hands-on experience throughout my education and career. My motivation comes from a desire to improve people’s quality of life through design, which has driven me to become a professional designer.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
I prioritize user experience, material authenticity, and cultural connection. I combine hand sketches with digital tools, often creating physical models during conceptual stages. Attention to detail and harmony in the overall atmosphere are key.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
Designing fills me with excitement and fulfillment, especially during moments of inspiration and project completion. The process is challenging but rewarding, bringing joy through creation. It gives me a sense of self-realization and happiness.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
Besides design skills, my communication, cross-cultural understanding, and project management have greatly helped me. These non-design skills enable effective collaboration and problem-solving. The biggest influence is my multicultural experience and a continuous learning mindset.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
I aim to expand into international markets, promote sustainable design, and explore cross-disciplinary collaborations. My dream project is to design a public space that integrates nature and culture, truly transforming community life.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
Stay curious and eager to learn, be brave to experiment and express yourself, and don’t fear failure. Building strong fundamentals and diverse experiences is crucial, along with finding your own design language.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Continuous innovation and truly listening to client needs are keys to success. Avoid imitation and superficiality; maintain authenticity and functionality. Valuing teamwork and lifelong learning fosters long-term growth.
What is your day to day look like?
Each morning starts with emails and design news, followed by team meetings to discuss progress. Site visits and design work occupy most of my day. I enjoy small surprises and creative sparks at work. Evenings are for reading or traveling for inspiration.
How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?
I follow trends but don’t blindly follow them, focusing on creating designs with lasting value. Inspiration comes from international design shows, professional publications, and cross-disciplinary exchange. Trends offer reference but the core is design philosophy and user needs.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
Good design balances aesthetics and functionality, solves problems, and enhances user experience. I value overall harmony, attention to detail, and durability. Avoiding over-decoration and neglecting practicality is crucial.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
I consider a design ready when it balances functionality, aesthetics, and budget, with no major improvements needed. Design always has room for improvement, but time and resources require timely closure.
What is your biggest design work?
“Izakaya 9am 5pm” is my biggest project, blending local culture with modern design. It challenged my creativity and attention to detail. This project is meaningful and has been recognized by the industry.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
I live in a multicultural city where music and travel inspire me. My cultural background deeply influences my design language. I believe good design is essential for societal progress.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
I value teamwork and communication, encouraging innovation and openness. When choosing partners, I prioritize professionalism and aligned values. Design work requires creativity and responsibility.
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
Attending the A’ Design Award expanded my international perspective, boosted brand recognition, and allowed me to network with excellent designers. Winning increased my confidence and project impact, greatly benefiting my career.

Extended Interview with Tim Jen

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?
I have a Master’s degree in Interior Architecture and Design, and have been practicing interior design for over 10 years. My passion for creating spaces that blend functionality and culture has driven my career since my early days as a student.
How did you become a designer?
I became a designer because I love the process of transforming ideas into tangible environments that enhance people's daily lives. The challenge of balancing aesthetics with practicality motivates me continuously.
What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?
Design has always been my choice. It was a natural path given my passion for art, culture, and creating meaningful spaces.
Which emotions do you feel when designing?
I primarily focus on interior architecture, especially for restaurants and residential spaces. I am eager to explore more projects that integrate local cultural elements with modern living needs.
What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?
I believe young designers should stay curious, continuously learn, and never lose sight of the balance between form and function. Embracing cultural context and sustainability is also crucial.
What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?
A good designer solves problems effectively; a great designer anticipates needs and creates timeless, meaningful experiences.
What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?
Good design is evaluated by its ability to harmonize aesthetics with usability. It should feel natural, inspire emotion, and serve its purpose effortlessly.
You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?
Good design improves quality of life, increases efficiency, and often adds lasting value to spaces and products.
What is your day to day look like?
If time allowed, I would love to design community cultural centers that foster connection and preserve local heritage.
How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?
My success lies in deep research, understanding client needs, and a continuous commitment to quality and authenticity.
How do you decide if your design is ready?
I am inspired by the works of Tadao Ando for his minimalism and integration with nature, and by Alvar Aalto for his human-centered design approach.
What is your biggest design work?
I admire designs that tell a story and evoke a sense of place, such as Isamu Noguchi’s sculptural furniture and Japanese tea houses.
Who is your favourite designer?
My project “Izakaya 9am 5pm” is my proudest work as it successfully integrates local materials and culture into a vibrant dining experience.
Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?
Practice mindfulness, observe daily life carefully, and constantly challenge yourself to think beyond aesthetics.
Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?
I might have pursued a career in cultural anthropology or arts education.
What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?
Design is the thoughtful creation of environments or objects that enhance human experience and solve problems.
What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?
My biggest supporter has been my partner and co-founder, Min Chen, who constantly pushes me to innovate and improve.

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