We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu ("XHACY").
Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu (Xinyi/Chenyang) are independent designers based in New York and Miami who first crossed paths during their university studies. Their shared interest in the dynamics of social demand and the impact of design on public spaces has fueled their collaborative efforts. Known for their expertise in crafting intricate and organic shapes, they specialize in creating elegant designs that seamlessly integrate with their surroundings. Their work reflects a deep understanding of architectural principles and a commitment to innovative solutions that enhance the built environment. Chenyang and Xinyi's collaborative approach brings together creativity and technical proficiency to deliver impactful designs that resonate with diverse communities.
Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu.
Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu Design - Omni Multifunctional Chair
Designer Interview of Xinyi Huang and Chenyang Yu:
DI: 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?
XHACY : We both attended the University of Pennsylvania's Stuart Weitzman School of Design, where our shared interest in the interplay between social dynamics and design's influence on public spaces flourished. This mutual fascination inspired us to pursue careers as designers, delving into the intricacies of human-space interaction across various scales. Over time, our curiosity expanded to encompass social science, leading us to recognize that design offers a powerful avenue for translating our shared passion into meaningful impact.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
XHACY : Our design team embodies the collaborative creativity and passion for three-dimensional space of Xinyi and Chenyang. Our mission is to explore the potential of geometry and space, unlocking new possibilities for human interaction. Through experimentation and innovation, we strive to create environments that engage and inspire.
DI: What is "design" for you?
XHACY : For us, design is not just about aesthetics; it's a powerful tool for addressing both existing and unforeseen challenges within spaces, whether public or private. It serves as a direct solution, mitigating problems or bringing them to light. Design, to us, is a celebration of life, harmonizing both form and function to enhance the human experience.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
XHACY : We are passionate about creating designs that prioritize human interaction. Our work is not static; it actively engages with its environment, inviting people to interact with it. We are committed to fostering unique and stimulating interactions between our designs and individuals, enriching the overall experience and fostering a sense of connection and discovery.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
XHACY : Our debut design as a team, Omni outdoor furniture, embodies our deep comprehension of open spaces, adaptable forms, and the requirements of outdoor environments. It reflects our commitment to creating furniture that seamlessly integrates with its surroundings, offering versatility and functionality while enhancing the outdoor experience.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
XHACY : Our current material of choice is durable plastic, engineered to withstand the rigors of outdoor environments without succumbing to weathering or degradation. With the advancement of 3D printing technology, we're exploring exciting possibilities for pushing the boundaries of form and presentation in outdoor furniture design. This innovative approach allows us to create unique, customizable pieces that combine durability with aesthetic appeal, ensuring our designs stand the test of time while making a statement in any outdoor setting.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
XHACY : We find that creativity often blossoms after engaging in thoughtful conversations and collaborative brainstorms. Additionally, we've noticed that moments of relaxation can spark unexpected bursts of creativity. Whether it's through lively discussion or quiet reflection, we embrace these diverse sources of inspiration to fuel our creative process and bring fresh ideas to life in our designs.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
XHACY : Our design philosophy revolves around prioritizing functionality and addressing existing problems. We believe that by focusing on solving practical challenges, the form and aesthetic appearance of our designs naturally emerge. Our process is driven by a commitment to ensuring that our creations not only look good but also serve their intended purpose effectively, resulting in designs that seamlessly marry both form and function.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
XHACY : A mix of contentment and anxiety.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
XHACY : We feel fulfilled, and at the same time motivated to improve more.
DI: What makes a design successful?
XHACY : A design is successful when it exposes or resolve a certain issues or concerns. A design is also successful when it makes the designer content.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
XHACY : We believe in the integration of function and aesthetics as the cornerstone of good design. A successful design is one where both elements are harmoniously combined, each enhancing the other.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
XHACY : Designers have a responsibility to address social and environmental issues through their work. This responsibility spans various scales, from large-scale urban planning to small, everyday objects. By leveraging our skills and creativity, designers aim to create designs that contribute positively to society and the environment, promoting sustainability and social well-being in every project.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
XHACY : The future of design will involve the integration of advanced technologies with simpler, more streamlined forms. This fusion will enhance functionality while maintaining elegance and simplicity, resulting in designs that are both innovative and accessible.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
XHACY : Our design inspiration draws from the forms of clouds and water, which only stabilize when they meet their purpose. We nurture our creativity by observing and learning from natural forms and creations, allowing the organic beauty and functionality of nature to inform and guide our design process.
DI: 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?
XHACY : Our design style embraces simple forms that address existing issues. Each design prioritizes its primary function while maintaining its geometric integrity. The hallmark of our work is the dynamic interaction between space and people, creating environments that are both functional and engaging.
DI: 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?
XHACY : Living and working in the United States has profoundly influenced our design journey. The fusion of diverse cultures and the freedom to express ourselves have provided us with rich inspiration and the courage to innovate. This environment has nurtured our creativity, allowing us to explore new ideas and push the boundaries of design.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
XHACY : Any designer can excel within a company if they share the same interests and focus. The key criterion for selecting a designer should be the alignment between the designer’s work style and aesthetics and the company’s culture. When these elements click, it fosters a harmonious and productive working relationship, leading to successful and impactful design outcomes.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
XHACY : We started by observing daily lives to find out the need of people, and then go through a research to dive deep into the core of the problem, to nail down the "problem" our design is going to solve and the market that is currently in demand that our design can fill in. The design research process for Omni began during the pandemic, with a primary focus on understanding the evolving needs in the furniture market. A comprehensive market research study was conducted to identify the specific requirements of the pandemic and postpandemic market. The findings revealed a growing demand for outdoor furniture due to the increased popularity of outdoor activities and a heightened emphasis on comfort and flexibility. Through an extensive study of public spaces, particularly public parks and college campuses, we meticulously examined the diverse activities taking place.Building upon these insights, our research delved into the typical forms and arrangements of public seating, examining the interactions between individuals and public seating, as well as the limitations in functionality and aesthetics commonly associated with such seating. This analysis provided valuable insights that guided our design direction.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
XHACY : Muji Bean Bag, Ikea utility cart, Haworth Chair, Hübsch glassware, Snow Peak Titanium Cup
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
XHACY : It's hard to describe a typical day in our lives because each day feels different. It's never exactly the same—unexpected "accidents" happen, and interesting things are discovered daily (especially living in New York and Miami. These cities never fail to surprise us.) But that's the beauty of life.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
XHACY : Although we are still young designers in the field, we will say that experimentation is never wrong.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
XHACY : On the positive side, being designers allows us to see the world differently, appreciating the beauty in the small details of everyday life that often go unnoticed by others. We learn to cherish these little things. However, the downside is the challenge of gaining recognition and the difficulty of selling our work.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
XHACY : Focus on functionality and problem-solving.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
XHACY : Ability to communicate. Communication between needs and design is the most important skill for a designer.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
XHACY : Our tools may vary from project to project, but the most important one for us is the sketchbook. It allows us to record ideas from daily life and facilitates the development of our designs, making it an essential part of our creative process.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
XHACY : We know that during the design process, we might get lost in the design and ignore the time. So time allocation and setting up goals is important during the initial planning period.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
XHACY : The idea generation process took shape around 3 months during pandemic. Then the polishing process took 6 months to a year.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
XHACY : How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
DI: What was your most important job experience?
XHACY : Experience at architecture offices. Working at architecture firms allows us to approach furniture design with a unique perspective, integrating architectural principles and enhancing functionality, aesthetics, and spatial harmony in furniture creation.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
XHACY : We enjoy furniture, product, and architectural design. It's fascinating to switch from designing a large-scale building to focusing on a lamp, as they often complement each other. This dynamic approach allows us to see designs more holistically and find balance between these disciplines.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
XHACY : As designers, we strive to stay open-minded to opportunities we encounter in daily life, that is to say we plan to pursue furniture and product design along with architectural and interior design. Our focus will remain on producing genuine designs characterized by originality, creativity, functionality, sustainability and aesthetics.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
XHACY : We work as a team and also develop individual projects.
DI: How can people contact you?
XHACY : instagram @janechyy @xiiiiiiinyih
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
XHACY : More design ideas in the oven. Feel free to reach out if you're interested!