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Interview with Lee Pik Shan |
Home > Designer Interviews > Lee Pik Shan |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Lee Pik Shan (LPS) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Lee Pik Shan by clicking here.
FS: 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?
LPS: I hold a Bachelor's degree in Industrial and Product Design (IPD) from The Hong Kong Polytechnic University's School of Design, and I have gained valuable industry experience from working for 10 years in various industrial design companies. In general, I was driven by a desire to solve problems and create solutions that could improve people’s lives. My reason for becoming a designer is not only because of the passion I have for creativity, innovation, and aesthetics but I also wanted to find a way to make a positive impact on society. I also tend to enjoy the challenges of finding new and better ways of doing things.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
LPS: My company, Ddiin, specializes in problem-solving and human-centric design, focusing on desire, design, innovation, idea, and needs. We believe that our innovative designs can help boost creativity and bring new ideas to life.
FS: What is "design" for you?
LPS: Design is the process of solving problems or needs through creativity, critical thinking, and technical skills, while considering the user's needs and preferences. It involves research, ideation, prototyping, testing, and refinement to create value for the user and society through innovative and effective solutions.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
LPS: As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
LPS: My favorite design is Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool, the first design product that my company launched. The product is beyond that of a traditional compass, without damaging any materials in the process of creation. The idea was to create a versatile and human-centric product that is also inclusive.
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
LPS: Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool is the first product that I designed for my company.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
LPS: 3D printing and CNC machining are the technology I mostly use for prototyping
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
LPS: I find that I am most creative at night. The stillness of night lets me feel relaxed and mentally clear, it allows me to focus on the task at hand and let my creativity flow. Thus, I can always wander and explore new ideas at night.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
LPS: As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
LPS: As a designer, I experience a mix of emotions during the design process. The initial idea phase brings excitement and creativity, but roadblocks can cause stress and frustration. A breakthrough or moment of inspiration brings a sense of pleasure and accomplishment. The design journey can be unpredictable, and emotions can vary at different stages.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
LPS: It is complicated. Seeing my ideas come to life brings a sense of pride and accomplishment. While I may feel some nervousness about how the product or project will be received. But overall, the pleasure I feel from the realization of my design outweighs any apprehension.
FS: What makes a design successful?
LPS: Personally, to make a design successful, it should meet the needs, preferences, and expectations of its users while being visually pleasing and functional. It should also incorporate unique and innovative features while taking into consideration the usability, aesthetics, functionality, and durability.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
LPS: In my point of view, whether the design can improve the user experience and enhance its functionality while having a positive impact on the environment and promoting sustainability is considered first. Also, it should also be able to provide a competitive advantage and drive sales.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
LPS: Designers have a responsibility to create designs that improve user experience, enhance functionality, and promote sustainability. This involves considering the life cycle of the product, using eco-friendly materials, and minimizing waste and energy consumption. Designers should also be aware of the social and cultural implications of their designs and aim to create designs that benefit both the user and the wider community.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
LPS: In my opinion, it is likely that technological advancements will continue to shape and transform society, the design field is evolving with the integration of technology and a focus on user-centered design. We may see advancements in technology such as artificial intelligence and biotechnology being incorporated into design. The future of design will likely involve continued integration of technology.
FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
LPS: The last exhibition was on June 2023 in Hong Kong Smart Design Awards 2023 Showcase in K11 Art Mall. We will join Permanent Collection at The Henry Ford Museum to showcase my design products later.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
LPS: I was mostly influenced by daily life activities such as the colors and shapes found in nature, the functionality of everyday objects, or the visual aesthetics of architecture and art. By observing and drawing from the world around me, I was able to create designs that are both beautiful and functional, and that resonate with their intended audience. Moreover, I draw inspiration from Philippe Starck and his innovative and playful approach to design. Studying his work has taught me new techniques and approaches, and continues to inspire my own unique style and approach to design.
FS: 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?
LPS: I would describe I am exploring making creative and artistic projects. These types of projects would allow me to explore new ideas and experiment with different forms of expression, pushing my boundaries of what is possible within my field. By pursuing more creative and artistic work, I can continue developing my skills, expand their horizons, and find new sources of inspiration and motivation.
FS: 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?
LPS: I live in Hong Kong. I can draw inspiration from the blend of Eastern and Western cultures, as well as the unique history and traditions, integrated with modern time. One pro of designing in Hong Kong is the exposure to a diverse range of cultures. This can lead to the development of unique and innovative designs that draw on a variety of sources. On the other hand, a potential con could be the challenge of balancing the demands of stakeholders with different cultural backgrounds and preferences.
FS: How do you work with companies?
LPS: As a startup founder, all products were created solely by myself, without any collaboration. This approach allowed me to have complete control and autonomy over the design process, resulting in a unique and personal final product.
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
LPS: Effective communication and collaboration are key to working with a designer. Clearly communicate goals and expectations, provide necessary resources, and prioritize teamwork to create effective designs. In my opinion, it is important to look for someone who incorporates unique and innovative features that create a positive emotional response in users.
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
LPS: Observation, find current problems, conduct research according to the found problems, then start design work. I will make use of 3D printing, CNC machining in prototypes, and testing for the products. Finally, come to the final stage after many times of testing.
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
LPS: I would say that a comfortable chair and work table provide ergonomic space, while a reliable pen and computer are necessary tools for design. An efficient lighting fixture creates a well-lit environment.
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
LPS: My life is simple, I focus on work from morning until night.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
LPS: As a designer, we have to always be adaptable and continuously learn to stay ahead of the curve, seeking feedback and diverse perspectives to enhance our creativity.
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
LPS: For the positives of being a designer, the main one is the satisfaction of seeing the designs come to life and bring positive impact to users. On the other hand, the pressure of constantly producing high-quality work within a tight deadline under limit budget is a difficult we have to faced.
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
LPS: Good quality is my golden rule in design. Also I aim to build solutions that suit the demands of the user while also being visually beautiful, inventive, and sustainable. By being sustainable, I also hope to have a beneficial influence on society and the environment.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
LPS: As a designer, creativity and problem-solving skills are crucial for developing unique and effective solutions. These skills allow designers to approach challenges with fresh perspectives and create designs that are both visually appealing and functional.
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
LPS: My design software and equipment vary depending on the project's requirements, but I typically use industry-standard software such as Adobe Creative Suite, Sketch, and Figma for digital designs and 3D modeling software like SolidWorks and Autodesk Fusion 360. I also use a range of equipment such as 3D printers, CNC machines, and traditional design tools like sketchbooks and pencils for physical prototyping and ideation.
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
LPS: I have effective time management that involves setting clear goals and deadlines for each project, breaking down complex tasks into smaller ones and prioritizing tasks based on their importance and urgency. To avoid distractions and maintain focus on the task at hand, I sometimes take short breaks between tasks and use that time to deal with small, trivial matters.
FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
LPS: It usually takes around a year from zero to the final product.
FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
LPS: The most frequent question I heard is where the design inspiration comes from.
FS: What was your most important job experience?
LPS: While all of my job experiences have been important, my years of working have developed strong communication skills that allow me to effectively interact with clients. Through regular updates and feedback, I can address concerns and issues to continuously improve my final products. These years of experience have provided a steady foundation for my design business.
FS: Who are some of your clients?
LPS: Our target customers are not limited to designers and artists since Exlicon has practical applications in various fields such as architecture, engineering, students and drawing beginners.
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
LPS: As a designer, I create products with a human-centered approach, focusing on solving everyday problems that revolve around the needs and experiences of users. My goal is to design solutions that are both functional and intuitive, enhancing the user's quality of life.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
LPS: I am always looking for new ways to push the boundaries of what is possible within my field. I am excited to continue exploring new ideas and experimenting with different materials and techniques, with the goal of creating more ergonomic and unique stationery products that will meet the needs and preferences of users.
FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
LPS: The Exlicon Multi Shape Drawing Tool was created solely by myself, without any collaboration. This approach allowed me to have complete control and autonomy over the design process, resulting in a unique and personal final product.
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
LPS: Some of the works-in-progress for the design is to improve the tool and explore potential collaborators with industries that may benefit from our product. We are also considering expanding our market reach and developing additional designs that could complement Exlicon's capabilities.
FS: How can people contact you?
LPS: People may contact me through email ddiin8@gmail.com
FS: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
LPS: As a designer, collaboration with others is essential for creating successful designs, staying up-to-date with the latest design trends and technologies is important, and working with clients and stakeholders can be challenging but rewarding. Personal creativity and inspiration are also critical for success in design.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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