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Interview with Trang Nguyen Thuy |
Home > Designer Interviews > Trang Nguyen Thuy |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Trang Nguyen Thuy (TNT) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Trang Nguyen Thuy 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?
TNT: My journey into the world of art and design began in Hue, Vietnam, where I was surrounded by rich cultural heritage and artistic traditions. From a young age, I was fascinated by the way design and aesthetics could tell stories and evoke emotions. This passion led me to pursue an academic path in Graphic Design initially, where I honed my skills in visual communication, typography, and branding. As I progressed in my studies, I realized that while graphic design allowed me to express creativity on a two-dimensional plane, I was increasingly drawn to the idea of creating tangible products that people could interact with in their daily lives. This interest led me to shift my focus to Industrial Design, where I could blend creativity with functionality to craft meaningful, user-centered products. The decision to transition to Industrial Design was fueled by my desire to approach challenges holistically, considering everything from the smallest details to the broader user experience. I find immense satisfaction in navigating intricate systems and transforming abstract concepts into concrete, human-centered solutions that address real-world needs. While I’ve always been passionate about design, it was this multidisciplinary approach—integrating art, technology, and user experience—that solidified my ambition to become a designer. I am particularly inspired by the potential of design to impact social well-being and evoke emotional connections, which is why I aim to infuse my work with empathy, creativity, and a deep understanding of user needs. Ultimately, my background in both graphic and industrial design has provided me with a diverse skill set and a unique perspective, enabling me to push boundaries and create designs that resonate on a human level.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
TNT: Lund University School of Industrial Design (LUSID) is renowned for its transformative approach to design education, empowering students to shape their design identities and push the boundaries of traditional design norms. Situated in Lund, Sweden, LUSID benefits from its Scandinavian location, known for its innovation and design excellence on a global scale. At LUSID, the ethos centers around fostering professional collaboration and encouraging students to challenge existing design paradigms with the aim of instigating meaningful societal change. The school's curriculum and environment are designed to inspire creativity and innovation across diverse domains, including social activism and novel material experimentation. The international focus of LUSID provides students with a unique platform to explore remote design realms and collaborate with peers from different cultural backgrounds. The school boasts extensive facilities and resources that support hands-on learning and experimentation, enabling students to translate their creative visions into tangible outcomes. LUSID not only equips students with technical skills but also encourages them to cultivate distinctive personas as designers, capable of wielding influence within the expansive field of design and beyond. By embracing diversity and interdisciplinary approaches, LUSID prepares graduates to address complex global challenges through innovative design solutions. Overall, Lund University School of Industrial Design offers a dynamic and inclusive environment where creativity thrives, paving the way for students to make a meaningful impact in the world of design.
FS: What is "design" for you?
TNT: For me, "design" is the art and science of creating intentional solutions to problems or opportunities. It's not just about aesthetics or functionality in isolation but rather the harmonious integration of form, function, and meaning. Design involves understanding human needs, behaviors, and aspirations deeply, and using this understanding to innovate and improve experiences, products, systems, and environments. Design, to me, is also about empathy—it's about putting oneself in the shoes of the user or stakeholder, anticipating their needs and desires, and crafting solutions that resonate on an emotional level. It's a process that requires creativity, iteration, and collaboration, often spanning disciplines and embracing diverse perspectives. Furthermore, design is inherently forward-looking and proactive. It seeks to anticipate future challenges and opportunities, incorporating sustainability, ethical considerations, and social impact into its solutions. Design, therefore, is not just a means to an end but a powerful tool for positive change and improvement in the world.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
TNT: I find myself most drawn to designing works that have a tangible impact on people's lives and experiences. Specifically, I am passionate about: User-Centered Products: I enjoy designing products that solve real-world problems and enhance users' daily experiences. Whether it's a household appliance, a piece of furniture, or a medical device, I find fulfillment in creating designs that improve functionality and usability while considering the emotional and ergonomic needs of the users. Sustainable and Ethical Designs: I am committed to designing with sustainability in mind. I am passionate about creating products and systems that minimize environmental impact, promote circular economy principles, and contribute positively to social equity. Designing with ethics and sustainability ensures that my work not only meets current needs but also supports a more sustainable future. Innovative and Futuristic Concepts: I am intrigued by futuristic and forward-thinking design concepts. Exploring novel materials, emerging technologies, and innovative forms allows me to push the boundaries of traditional design and envision possibilities that could shape the future. These projects challenge me to think creatively and explore new design paradigms. Designs with Social Impact: I am inspired by designs that address social challenges and promote positive social change. Whether it's designing for accessibility, inclusivity, or cultural sensitivity, I am passionate about creating designs that contribute to social well-being and foster community engagement.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
TNT: One of my favorite designs that I've worked on is a project where I collaborated with a team to create a sustainable urban mobility solution for densely populated cities. This project aimed to address the challenges of urban congestion, pollution, and accessibility while promoting sustainable transportation alternatives. Concept and Inspiration: The inspiration behind this design stemmed from the increasing urbanization trends globally and the pressing need for eco-friendly mobility solutions. We were particularly inspired by the idea of creating a compact, electric vehicle that could navigate narrow city streets efficiently and reduce carbon emissions. Design Features: Our design focused on several key features: Compact Form Factor: We designed the vehicle to be compact yet spacious enough to comfortably accommodate passengers and their belongings. The goal was to make it agile and maneuverable in dense urban environments. Electric Propulsion: Sustainability was a cornerstone of our design. We integrated electric propulsion to minimize environmental impact and reduce reliance on fossil fuels. The vehicle was designed to be rechargeable using renewable energy sources. Smart Connectivity: We incorporated smart technologies to enhance user experience and connectivity. This included features such as integrated navigation systems, real-time traffic updates, and connectivity to public transport networks. Accessibility: Ensuring inclusivity was another important aspect of our design. We incorporated features to make the vehicle accessible to people of diverse abilities, including those with mobility challenges. Impact and Vision: Our favorite part of this design was its potential impact on urban communities. By promoting sustainable transportation options, we envisioned reducing traffic congestion, improving air quality, and enhancing overall urban mobility. This project allowed us to explore the intersection of design, sustainability, and social impact, aligning with my passion for creating designs that contribute positively to society. In summary, this project remains close to my heart because it exemplifies my commitment to designing solutions that address real-world challenges, prioritize sustainability, and improve quality of life in urban environments. It reflects my belief in the transformative power of design to create meaningful and lasting change.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
TNT: My favorite material, platform, or technology in the context of design often depends on the specific project and its objectives. However, I do have a few favorites that consistently inspire and excite me: 1. Sustainable Materials: I am passionate about exploring and utilizing sustainable materials in my designs. Materials that are renewable, recyclable, or biodegradable not only reduce environmental impact but also contribute to creating more responsible and ethical products. Examples include bamboo, recycled plastics, cork, and eco-friendly textiles like organic cotton or hemp. 2. Digital Design Tools: I appreciate the capabilities of digital design tools such as CAD (Computer-Aided Design) software and advanced modeling programs. These tools allow for precise detailing, rapid prototyping, and simulation of design concepts, enabling me to iterate quickly and efficiently. They also facilitate collaboration with multidisciplinary teams and stakeholders, ensuring a holistic approach to design development. 3. Human-Centered Design Platforms: Platforms and methodologies that emphasize human-centered design principles are particularly valuable to me. These platforms include design thinking frameworks, user experience (UX) design tools, and co-creation platforms that prioritize empathy, user research, and iterative feedback loops. They help ensure that designs are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also deeply resonate with and cater to the needs of end-users.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
TNT: I feel most creative when several key conditions are met: Exploration and Inspiration: I thrive in environments where I can explore new ideas, concepts, and inspirations. This could be through research, visiting exhibitions, engaging in discussions with diverse individuals, or simply immersing myself in different cultures and perspectives. Freedom and Flexibility: Having the freedom to experiment and explore various approaches without rigid constraints allows my creativity to flow. This might involve brainstorming sessions, sketching rough ideas, or prototyping without the pressure of immediate perfection. Collaboration and Diversity: Collaborating with multidisciplinary teams and individuals from different backgrounds sparks my creativity. Hearing diverse viewpoints and approaches often leads to innovative solutions that I wouldn't have considered on my own. Challenge and Purpose: I am most creative when I am tackling meaningful challenges that align with my values and passions. Whether it's designing for sustainability, addressing social issues, or creating user-centered solutions, having a clear purpose drives my creativity to find impactful and meaningful outcomes. Quiet Reflection and Mindfulness: Sometimes, creativity flourishes during moments of quiet reflection and mindfulness. Taking breaks, going for walks in nature, or engaging in activities that promote relaxation can often lead to unexpected creative insights and breakthroughs.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
TNT: Ethical and Social Considerations: Designing ethically involves considering the social implications of the product or system. I advocate for inclusivity, diversity, and accessibility in design, ensuring that the design respects cultural sensitivities and promotes social equity. Ethical considerations also extend to fair labor practices, supply chain transparency, and the impact on local communities.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
TNT: Designing evokes a range of emotions for me, reflecting the dynamic and multifaceted nature of the creative process: Excitement and Inspiration: At the beginning of a project, I often feel a sense of excitement and inspiration. Exploring new ideas, researching possibilities, and envisioning potential solutions energizes me. This phase is characterized by curiosity and anticipation for what the design journey will unfold. Challenge and Focus: As I delve deeper into the design process, challenges inevitably arise. Whether it's overcoming technical hurdles, reconciling conflicting requirements, or refining the concept, I experience a sense of focused determination. Problem-solving becomes a stimulating exercise that drives me to seek innovative and effective solutions. Flow and Creativity: During moments of deep concentration and immersion in the creative flow, I experience a profound sense of satisfaction and joy. Ideas flow freely, and I lose track of time as I sketch, prototype, or conceptualize designs. This state of flow is exhilarating and gratifying, allowing me to translate abstract concepts into tangible forms. Empathy and Connection: Designing with empathy involves putting myself in the shoes of the end-users. Understanding their needs, aspirations, and challenges fosters a sense of empathy and connection. Designing with the user's perspective in mind allows me to create solutions that resonate emotionally and enhance their quality of life.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
TNT: When evaluating a design and determining whether it is good or bad, several key aspects come into consideration. These aspects help assess the design's effectiveness, appeal, and overall success: Functionality: The first and foremost aspect I consider is whether the design fulfills its intended function effectively. Does it solve the problem or meet the need it was designed for? Functionality includes usability, ergonomics, ease of use, and practicality in real-world scenarios. User Experience (UX): I evaluate how well the design considers the end-user's needs, preferences, and behaviors. A good design prioritizes the user experience, providing intuitive interactions, clear feedback, and a seamless flow of use. It should enhance user satisfaction and usability. Aesthetic Appeal: Visual aesthetics play a significant role in judging a design. I consider the overall visual harmony, balance, and attractiveness of the design. Aesthetics contribute to the emotional appeal of the design and can influence user perception and acceptance. Innovation and Creativity: I look for innovative ideas, novel solutions, or unique approaches that set the design apart. Innovation can be in the form of new technologies, materials, functionalities, or design concepts that enhance the design's value and relevance. Sustainability and Ethical Considerations: Assessing whether the design incorporates sustainable practices, uses eco-friendly materials, and considers ethical implications is crucial. Designs that minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility are increasingly valued. Quality and Craftsmanship: High-quality materials, meticulous craftsmanship, and attention to detail reflect the overall quality of the design. Quality assurance ensures that the design is durable, reliable, and meets industry standards. Context and Relevance: I consider how well the design fits within its intended context—whether it's cultural, social, technological, or market-related. A good design should be relevant to its target audience, align with current trends, and address specific contextual needs or challenges. Feedback and Iteration: Evaluating how the design has evolved based on feedback, user testing, and iterative improvements is essential. Designs that show responsiveness to feedback and continuous refinement tend to be more successful over time. Emotional Impact: Lastly, I consider the emotional response elicited by the design. Does it evoke positive emotions, resonate with users on a deeper level, or tell a compelling story? Emotional connection can enhance user engagement and loyalty to the design.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
TNT: When evaluating a design and determining whether it is good or bad, several key aspects come into consideration. These aspects help assess the design's effectiveness, appeal, and overall success: Functionality: The first and foremost aspect I consider is whether the design fulfills its intended function effectively. Does it solve the problem or meet the need it was designed for? Functionality includes usability, ergonomics, ease of use, and practicality in real-world scenarios. User Experience (UX): I evaluate how well the design considers the end-user's needs, preferences, and behaviors. A good design prioritizes the user experience, providing intuitive interactions, clear feedback, and a seamless flow of use. It should enhance user satisfaction and usability. Aesthetic Appeal: Visual aesthetics play a significant role in judging a design. I consider the overall visual harmony, balance, and attractiveness of the design. Aesthetics contribute to the emotional appeal of the design and can influence user perception and acceptance. Innovation and Creativity: I look for innovative ideas, novel solutions, or unique approaches that set the design apart. Innovation can be in the form of new technologies, materials, functionalities, or design concepts that enhance the design's value and relevance. Sustainability and Ethical Considerations: Assessing whether the design incorporates sustainable practices, uses eco-friendly materials, and considers ethical implications is crucial. Designs that minimize environmental impact and promote social responsibility are increasingly valued.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
TNT: The design field is undergoing rapid evolution driven by technological advancements, changing societal expectations, and global challenges. Several key trends and shifts are shaping the future of design: Integration of Technology: Designers are increasingly leveraging advanced technologies such as artificial intelligence (AI), augmented reality (AR), virtual reality (VR), and Internet of Things (IoT) in their work. These technologies enable new forms of interaction, personalization, and data-driven design solutions. User-Centered and Experience Design: There is a growing emphasis on understanding and designing for the holistic user experience (UX). Designers are focusing on creating seamless, intuitive, and emotionally engaging experiences across digital and physical touchpoints. Sustainability and Circular Design: Designers are embracing sustainable practices and circular economy principles. There is a shift towards designing products and systems that minimize environmental impact, promote resource efficiency, and support ethical consumption. Inclusive and Accessible Design: There is increasing recognition of the importance of designing inclusively for diverse populations, including people with disabilities and marginalized communities. Designers are incorporating universal design principles to ensure equitable access to products and services. Collaborative and Interdisciplinary Approaches: Design is becoming more collaborative, involving multidisciplinary teams that include engineers, scientists, policymakers, and community stakeholders. Cross-disciplinary collaboration fosters innovation and addresses complex societal challenges. Data-Driven Design and Personalization: Designers are using data analytics and user insights to inform design decisions and personalize user experiences. This trend allows for more tailored solutions that meet individual preferences and behaviors. Ethical Design and Social Impact: There is a growing emphasis on ethical design practices that prioritize user privacy, data security, and societal well-being. Designers are exploring ways to create positive social impact through their work, addressing issues such as equity, justice, and human rights. Remote and Distributed Design Practices: The shift towards remote work and digital collaboration has transformed how designers collaborate, ideate, and deliver projects. Virtual design tools and platforms enable global teams to work seamlessly across borders and time zones.
FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
TNT: My last exhibition was at the NEXT GEN DESIGNERS 2024 event, where my thesis project titled 'AZOLLA' was showcased. The exhibition took place at Form/Design Center in Sweden. It was a fantastic opportunity to present my work alongside other emerging designers and receive feedback from industry professionals and the public. As for my next exhibition, I am currently considering future opportunities to exhibit my latest projects. I aim to participate in events that align with my design interests and allow me to share my work with a broader audience. Exhibitions provide invaluable exposure and networking opportunities, helping me to further develop as a designer and contribute to the design community.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
TNT: The inspiration for my design work comes from various sources and experiences that collectively fuel my creativity: Nature and Environment: I find inspiration in the beauty, patterns, and systems of nature. Observing natural forms, colors, textures, and behaviors often sparks ideas for organic shapes, sustainable materials, and biomimetic design solutions. Human-Centered Insights: Understanding human needs, behaviors, and aspirations is a significant source of inspiration. Conducting user research, observing everyday interactions, and empathizing with people's experiences help me design solutions that resonate deeply with users and enhance their lives. Art and Culture: Exploring art movements, cultural traditions, and diverse aesthetics enriches my creative palette. Artistic expressions, historical references, and contemporary art trends inspire innovative design approaches, visual storytelling, and cultural sensitivity in my work. Technology and Innovation: Emerging technologies, scientific advancements, and technological breakthroughs inspire me to explore futuristic possibilities in design. Integrating cutting-edge technologies such as AI, IoT, and sustainable materials drives innovation and enhances the functionality of my designs. Travel and Exploration: Traveling to different places, experiencing new cultures, and encountering unique environments broaden my perspective and stimulate creativity. Experiencing architecture, local craftsmanship, and community dynamics inspire design solutions that reflect cultural authenticity and global awareness.
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?
TNT: My design style is characterized by a blend of functionality, aesthetics, and sustainability. I prioritize creating solutions that are not only visually appealing but also practical and environmentally conscious. This approach stems from a deep-seated belief in the power of design to improve lives and contribute positively to society. I have explored and refined this style through a combination of academic training, practical experience, and continuous exploration. Studying industrial design has provided me with a solid foundation in design principles, materials science, and user-centered methodologies. Real-world projects and collaborations have allowed me to apply these principles and adapt my style to meet diverse design challenges.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
TNT: Embrace Curiosity and Continuous Learning: Stay curious about the world around you and be open to learning from diverse sources. Design is an evolving field, so keep exploring new technologies, design trends, and interdisciplinary knowledge areas that can inspire fresh ideas. Build a Strong Foundation: Invest in developing a solid foundation of design principles, techniques, and skills. Take advantage of formal education, workshops, mentorship programs, and online resources to hone your craft and expand your expertise. User-Centered Design: Always prioritize understanding the needs, behaviors, and aspirations of your users. Design solutions that empathize with your audience and enhance their experiences. User feedback and usability testing are invaluable for refining your designs. Seek Inspiration Everywhere: Draw inspiration from diverse sources such as nature, art, culture, technology, and everyday life. Keep a sketchbook or digital journal to capture ideas, sketches, and design inspirations that resonate with you. Collaborate and Network: Collaborate with fellow designers, professionals from other disciplines, and potential clients. Networking opens doors to opportunities, exposes you to different perspectives, and fosters creativity through collaborative projects. Embrace Failure as a Learning Opportunity: Design involves experimentation and iteration. Don’t be afraid to fail or make mistakes along the way. Each setback is an opportunity to learn, iterate, and improve your designs. Balance Creativity with Practicality: While creativity is essential, also consider the practical aspects of design—functionality, manufacturability, and market feasibility. Strive to create designs that are both innovative and practical for real-world applications.
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
TNT: My "golden rule" in design is to prioritize empathy. Design is fundamentally about solving problems and meeting needs, and empathy ensures that these solutions are meaningful and impactful for the people who will use them. By deeply understanding the perspectives, emotions, and challenges of users, designers can create experiences that resonate on a human level. This involves listening actively, observing keenly, and putting oneself in the shoes of others to uncover insights that guide thoughtful design decisions. Empathy extends beyond users to encompass stakeholders, collaborators, and the broader community affected by design outcomes. It fosters inclusivity, ethical responsibility, and a genuine connection between the designer and the intended audience. Ultimately, designing with empathy leads to solutions that not only function well and look beautiful but also enrich lives, inspire positive change, and contribute positively to the world.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
TNT: Several skills are crucial for a designer to succeed and thrive in their career. These skills encompass technical abilities, creative aptitude, interpersonal skills, and a mindset geared towards innovation and problem-solving. Here are some of the most important skills for a designer: Creativity and Imagination: The ability to think creatively and generate innovative ideas is at the core of design. Designers need to envision solutions that are original, visually appealing, and effective in addressing user needs. Problem-Solving: Designers must be adept at identifying problems, analyzing constraints, and developing creative solutions. This involves critical thinking, logic, and the ability to approach challenges from multiple angles. Attention to Detail: Designers must pay meticulous attention to detail in every aspect of their work, from typography and layout to color choices and material selection. Precision enhances the quality and craftsmanship of the final design. Time Management and Organization: Designers often work on multiple projects with tight deadlines. Effective time management, prioritization of tasks, and organizational skills are essential to deliver projects on time and within budget. Adaptability and Flexibility: Design trends, technologies, and client preferences evolve over time. Designers should be adaptable, willing to learn new skills, and flexible in adjusting their design approach to meet changing demands.
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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