We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Ting Fai Chu ("TFC").
Mr. Garrack Chu Ting Fai, started his design career in Macau since 1993. After graduated in high diploma of spatial design at HKIVE in 1989, he worked at some mainstream interior firm for about four years, after a chance to participate in projects in Macau 1993, he decided to focus his view to Macau. Extensive knowledge in the luxury residential, retail and casino related projects. Established in Macau in 2008, EDGE interior design limited provide comprehensive and integrated range of interior design services covering every aspect of delivery for residential & hospitality. In this competitive market, we prospered through a foundation of passion, creativity and service. We are passionate about our work, exuding professionalism and attention to detail in creating modern and innovative spaces that power our cities’ economy. Our reputation for diligence, creativity and quality work has established EDGE interior design limited as the preferred choice for clients. Time after time, property owners turn to EDGE for our superior design services, design expertise and reputation for getting the job done right. Deep research and understanding of current and future trends, result in spaces that improve the way people live, play and relax, improve each occupant’ quality of life.
Ting Fai Chu Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Ting Fai Chu.
Ting Fai Chu Design - Love Veggie Restaurant
Ting Fai Chu Design - Circus Gift Shop
Designer Interview of Ting Fai Chu:
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?
TFC : The decision to become a designer was driven by my desire to create spaces that not only look beautiful but also enhance the lives of those who use them. I believe that good design has the power to inspire, uplift, and transform. This belief has been the guiding force behind my work.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
TFC : Our team is composed of talented and passionate designers, architects, and project managers who bring a wealth of experience and creativity to every project. We pride ourselves on our collaborative approach, working closely with clients, contractors, and other stakeholders to ensure the success of each project.
DI: What is "design" for you?
TFC : For me, design is a way to express my creativity and make a positive impact on the world. It’s a journey of continuous learning and exploration, where each project is an opportunity to discover new ideas and refine my skills. Whether it’s transforming a retail space like Simply Gift Shop or designing a cozy home, the goal is always to create something that brings joy, comfort, and inspiration to people’s lives.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
TFC : I find joy in designing a variety of spaces, but there are a few types of projects that particularly resonate with me: Public and community spaces have the power to bring people together and foster a sense of community. Designing parks, plazas, and cultural centers allows me to contribute to the social fabric of a community. These projects are about creating inclusive, accessible, and inspiring environments that everyone can enjoy.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
TFC : “Love Veggie” is indeed one of my favorite designs, and I’m excited to share more about it! “Love Veggie” exemplifies my approach to design: creating spaces that are beautiful, functional, and meaningful. It’s a project that showcases the power of thoughtful design to promote positive lifestyle choices and foster a sense of community.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
TFC : The first project I designed for a company was a small boutique. This project was particularly memorable because it marked the beginning of my professional journey in the design world.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
TFC : Choosing a favorite material, platform, or technology can be challenging because each project often calls for different tools and approaches. However, here are a few that I particularly enjoy working with: Augmented Reality (AR) has revolutionized the way we approach design. It allows clients to experience and interact with a space before it’s built, providing a more immersive and realistic understanding of the design. AR can also be used to enhance retail environments, creating interactive and engaging experiences for customers.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
TFC : Creativity can strike at any time, but these moments and environments tend to be the most conducive for me. They provide the right balance of inspiration, tranquility, and stimulation that fuels my creative process.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
TFC : By focusing on these aspects, I aim to create designs that are not only beautiful and innovative but also practical, sustainable, and user-friendly. Each project is an opportunity to balance these elements in a way that meets the specific goals and challenges of the design.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
TFC : The design process is a journey filled with a mix of emotions, each contributing to the overall experience and growth of a designer. These emotions drive creativity, resilience, and a passion for creating spaces that make a difference.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
TFC : The realization of a design is a milestone that brings a mix of pride, joy, relief, gratitude, excitement, fulfillment, and inspiration. These emotions reflect the passion and dedication that designers pour into their work, making the journey from concept to completion incredibly rewarding.
DI: What makes a design successful?
TFC : A successful design is one that effectively combines aesthetics, functionality, and user experience while addressing practical needs and promoting sustainability. It’s about creating spaces and products that not only look beautiful but also enhance the lives of those who use them.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
TFC : By considering these aspects, I can form a well-rounded judgment of a design’s quality. A successful design balances aesthetics, functionality, user experience, innovation, sustainability, practicality, and emotional impact.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
TFC : Designers have a profound influence on society and the environment. By embracing their responsibilities and making thoughtful, informed decisions, they can create designs that are not only beautiful and functional but also socially inclusive, environmentally sustainable, and ethically sound.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
TFC : The design field is continuously evolving, driven by advancements in technology, changing societal needs, and a growing emphasis on sustainability. AI is increasingly being used to optimize design processes, from generating design options to predicting user preferences. AI can help designers create more personalized and efficient solutions, enhancing both creativity and functionality.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
TFC : I had never holding any exhibition yet.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
TFC : My design inspiration comes from a variety of sources, and I continuously seek out new experiences and ideas to feed my creativity.
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?
TFC : My design style is a blend of whimsy and practicality, aimed at creating spaces that are both engaging and efficient. By focusing on user needs, creative exploration, collaboration, and sustainability, I strive to design environments that bring joy and inspiration to people’s lives.
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?
TFC : I Live in Macau. Living in a place with a rich cultural heritage can profoundly influence a designer’s work, providing both opportunities and challenges. By thoughtfully integrating cultural elements, designers can create spaces that are not only beautiful and functional but also deeply meaningful and sustainable.
DI: How do you work with companies?
TFC : I collaborate with companies in various ways to help them achieve their goals.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
TFC : Clearly communicate your goals, target audience, and the purpose of the project. This helps the designer understand your vision and create designs that align with your objectives.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
TFC : I start by getting to know the client’s brand, goals, and target audience. This involves detailed discussions and sometimes workshops. I share initial concepts with the client to gather feedback and refine the direction. This collaborative approach ensures that the design aligns with the client’s vision. I present the design to the client and gather their feedback. This stage may involve several iterations to ensure the design meets all requirements.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
TFC : Eames Lounge Chair and Ottoman: This classic piece by Charles and Ray Eames is not only incredibly comfortable but also a timeless design icon. Its sleek lines and luxurious materials make it a standout in any room. Noguchi Coffee Table: Designed by Isamu Noguchi, this table combines organic shapes with modern materials. The sculptural base and glass top create a beautiful balance of form and function. Arco Floor Lamp: Designed by Achille and Pier Giacomo Castiglioni, this lamp features a marble base and an elegant arching arm. It’s perfect for providing overhead lighting without the need for ceiling fixtures. Vitsoe 606 Universal Shelving System: Designed by Dieter Rams, this modular shelving system is both versatile and minimalist. It can be customized to fit any space and is perfect for displaying books, art, and other treasures. Kartell Masters Chair: Designed by Philippe Starck, this chair is a playful and modern take on classic chair silhouettes. It’s lightweight, stackable, and suitable for both indoor and outdoor use.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
TFC : I spend some time catching up on the latest trends and news in various fields, including design, technology, and current events. This keeps me informed and ready to provide up-to-date information. I reflect on the day’s activities, noting what went well and what could be improved. I also plan for the next day, setting goals and priorities to stay organized and efficient.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
TFC : The design field is always evolving. Stay curious and keep learning new skills and tools.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
TFC : Designers have the opportunity to express their creativity and bring their ideas to life. This can be incredibly fulfilling and satisfying. But design is subjective, and what one person loves, another might dislike. This can make it difficult to satisfy all stakeholders.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
TFC : My “golden rule” in design is to prioritize the user experience. This means always considering how the end user will interact with and perceive the design.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
TFC : At the core of any design work is creativity. This involves thinking outside the box and coming up with unique solutions to problems.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
TFC : Pinterest: Great for finding mood boards and visual inspiration across various design disciplines.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
TFC : Determine which tasks are most important and tackle them first. This helps ensure that critical elements are completed on time.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
TFC : Overall, the entire process can take anywhere from 2 to 4 months or more, depending on the project’s complexity and the level of detail required. For simpler projects, the timeline might be shorter, while more complex designs could take longer.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
TFC : One of the most frequently asked questions I get as a designer is: “How do you come up with your design ideas?” This question often comes from clients, fellow designers, or even those curious about the creative process.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
TFC : Managing as Excutive Designer of the whole project of Lisboeta development project.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
TFC : Lisboeta , Menzies , etc.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
TFC : I find joy in various types of design work, but if I had to choose, I particularly enjoy experiential and immersive design.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
TFC : Continuously learning and incorporating the latest information across various fields, including design, technology, and current events.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
TFC : I work both independently and collaboratively, depending on the project and the needs of the users.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
TFC : I'm working on the project called "Rio Spa".
DI: How can people contact you?
TFC : You can contact me at garrack@edge.mo
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
TFC : None, thank you.