We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat ("PW").
Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat is an award-winning designer that helps make the World a better place with their original and innovative creations and advanced design works.
Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat.
Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat Design - Ten Thousand to One Thesis
Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat Design - Roi Re Illustration
Designer Interview of Poovakorn Watcharaphongphiphat:
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?
PW : Design wasn’t an innate gift for me, but through cultivating an understanding of visuals, it transformed me and opened my eyes to the beauty that surrounds us.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
PW : I am an independent designer driven by the belief that thoughtful design has the power to transform society.
DI: What is "design" for you?
PW : Every design should tell a story and evoke an emotional response. Design is more than aesthetics - it’s about creating meaningful connections through design work.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
PW : Visual communication is the role I value most, as it empowers designers to connect, convey, and evoke emotions through the language of visuals.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
PW : I'm drawn to exploring various fields, as each offers its own distinct purpose and value.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
PW : When I first entered this field, I encountered many subjects, but branding stood out as the primary focus.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
PW : The field is incredibly expansive, and I enjoy working with both physical and emotional materials to create meaningful designs.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
PW : When faced with challenges and limitations in a project, I find it exciting to use my creativity to overcome them and craft effective design solutions.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
PW : I focus on achieving a balance between functionality and aesthetics. Every element should not only look good but also serve a clear purpose. Additionally, I prioritize understanding the target audience and the message the design intends to convey, ensuring it resonates both visually and emotionally.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
PW : When I design, I often feel a mix of excitement and curiosity.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
PW : There's a sense of joy in exploring different possibilities, while also feeling the challenge of solving problems creatively. At times, there's also a deep sense of satisfaction when everything clicks, and the design feels both meaningful and visually engaging. It's a process of discovery, reflection, and expression.
DI: What makes a design successful?
PW : Functionality and aesthetics.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
PW : Balance between functionality and aesthetics.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
PW : A designer has a significant responsibility to both society and the environment. In terms of society, a designer shapes the visual and emotional landscape of the world, influencing how people perceive and interact with their surroundings. Designers have the power to create work that fosters inclusivity, empathy, and social change, while also being mindful of the values and needs of diverse communities. For the environment, designers should be aware of the impact their work can have. This includes making sustainable choices by using eco-friendly materials, minimizing waste, and considering the longevity of their designs. A designer's responsibility is to create with purpose, ensuring their work not only looks good but also serves the greater good of the planet and society.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
PW : As the future of design unfolds, it will likely focus on deeper integration with technology, where design becomes an integral part of everyday life. Ultimately, the future of design will be about versatility, adaptability, and purpose-driven creativity, where designers not only shape the aesthetic but also the experiences that define our world.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
PW : My last exhibition, held in Thailand, was the culmination of my thesis, which explored the rich and diverse aspects of old Thai culture. I delved into traditional arts, crafts, and historical narratives, aiming to bring a contemporary perspective to the timeless beauty of Thai heritage. Through my work, I sought to highlight the profound connections between past and present, showcasing how ancient cultural practices still resonate in today's world. The exhibition served as a bridge between history and modernity, celebrating Thailand's cultural legacy while sparking conversations about its relevance in contemporary design.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
PW : My creativity is fueled by the world around me and the experiences I encounter in life. I draw inspiration from the people, places, and moments that shape my perspective. By piecing together these influences, I find innovative ways to approach and solve design problems, always aiming to create something meaningful and impactful.
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?
PW : I believe that the styles I envision haven't fully manifested yet, but they are constantly evolving and taking shape as I encounter new challenges and develop design solutions. Each experience refines my approach, pushing me to continuously improve and grow as a designer.
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?
PW : Being based in Bangkok, I’m deeply influenced by the rich tapestry of Thai culture, which has embraced a variety of external influences while maintaining its distinctive identity. This blend makes it an endless source of inspiration for design, offering unique materials and perspectives that can't be found elsewhere. The vibrancy and depth of Thai culture are woven into every aspect of my work, serving as a constant source of creative energy.
DI: How do you work with companies?
PW : My work often requires input from multiple disciplines, such as marketing, technology, or business strategy. During my time at MUIC, I learned how to work effectively in teams, which has helped me become better at integrating different perspectives - a skill I continue to develop and one that I find especially important in real-world scenarios where cross-functional collaboration is key to success.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
PW : I believe that good design has the potential to be explored across a wide range of fields, offering endless opportunities to innovate and make a meaningful impact.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
PW : The design process involves several stages, starting with research to understand the problem, target audience, and context. Then comes ideation, where ideas are brainstormed and developed into concepts. These concepts are refined into design executions, including visual elements and prototypes. Testing and evaluation follow, gathering feedback to make improvements. Finally, the design is implemented and delivered in its final form. This iterative process allows for continuous refinement to ensure the design meets both aesthetic and functional goals.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
PW : Desk Vintage Lighting Fixtures Handcrafted Ceramic Vase Modern Throw Blanket Bookshelf
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
PW : A typical day for me begins with a quiet morning, where I take time to reflect and gather inspiration for the day ahead. I often start by reviewing design briefs or projects I'm working on, planning out the tasks. Then, I dive into research, sketching, and brainstorming ideas, often fueled by coffee and a bit of music in the background. My afternoons are spent in focused design execution—working on visual elements, refining concepts, and testing solutions. I make sure to take breaks, stepping away to gain perspective and stay creative. In the evening, I enjoy winding down with some reading or exploring new design trends to stay inspired.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
PW : Success doesn’t happen overnight. Be patient, stay persistent, and trust the process as you develop your skills and style.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
PW : Positives: Design allows creative expression, has a meaningful impact, offers variety, fosters constant learning, and brings a sense of fulfillment. Negatives: Tight deadlines, creative blocks, subjective feedback, balancing function and aesthetics, and endless revisions can be challenging.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
PW : Design with purpose, and always consider the experience.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
PW : I believe it would be the ability to think outside the box and come up with innovative solutions.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
PW : Adobe Creative Suite (Photoshop, Illustrator, InDesign) – For creating and editing visuals, illustrations, and layouts.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
PW : I prioritize tasks, set deadlines, and block time for each step. I limit distractions and take breaks to stay focused. I delegate and seek feedback when working in teams.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
PW : The time it takes to design an object varies depending on its complexity and scope.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
PW : How do I mange my task and time for the project How do you get those ideas from
DI: What was your most important job experience?
PW : Working at Capella Bangkok was a truly rewarding experience. It allowed me to explore a wide range of materials in designing goods and crafting visual communication for social media. I’m extremely proud of my contributions, as it helped shape a unique visual style for the brand, and I’m grateful to have been a part of that creative journey.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
PW : I have supported a wide range of businesses, helping them develop their visual identity and design solutions tailored to their unique needs. For example, at Capella Bangkok and its hotel outlets, my work contributed to a widely recognized visual style appreciated globally.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
PW : I enjoy working on projects that blend creativity with purpose, particularly in areas like branding and visual communication. The process of creating a unique identity for a brand or crafting visuals that communicate a message effectively excites me. I love the challenge of balancing aesthetics with functionality, ensuring that the design resonates with its audience while serving its intended purpose. Projects that allow me to explore new materials, styles, and cultural influences, like my work at Capella Bangkok, are particularly fulfilling because they offer endless opportunities for innovation and creative expression.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
PW : My future plans involve continuing to grow as a designer, exploring new creative fields, and pushing the boundaries of my work. I aim to focus more on projects that combine design with purpose, especially those that have a positive impact on society and the environment. I also hope to expand my design practice to include collaborations with global brands and further explore the intersection of culture and design. Ultimately, I want to continue evolving my unique style and contribute to creating meaningful design solutions that resonate with diverse audiences.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
PW : I work both independently and as part of a team, depending on the project. When I’m developing designs on my own, I have the freedom to fully explore my ideas and creative direction. However, I also enjoy collaborating with others, especially in team settings where diverse perspectives and skills come together to create more innovative and well-rounded solutions. I believe that collaboration enhances the design process and allows for growth, but I also value the autonomy that comes with working solo.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
PW : Currently, I'm working on a few personal design projects that combine elements of Thai culture with modern aesthetics. I'm exploring how traditional patterns and materials can be reimagined in a contemporary context, aiming to create designs that feel both timeless and innovative. These projects are still in the early stages, but they’re an exciting exploration of cultural fusion and the emotional impact of visual storytelling. I’m also refining some branding work, where I’m focusing on how visual identity can shape a brand’s relationship with its audience.
DI: How can people contact you?
PW : You can contact me via email at Poovakorn.work@gmail.com. For inquiries within Bangkok, Thailand, feel free to reach out to me by phone at 0968850991 for further information.
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
PW : One thing I’d like to highlight is my passion for the intersection of design and culture. I believe that design can act as a bridge between tradition and innovation, and I’m always seeking ways to incorporate cultural elements into my work, especially from my experiences in Thailand. I also value the process of storytelling through design, as I believe it has the power to communicate complex ideas in a way that’s both engaging and accessible. Additionally, I’m always open to new collaborations and projects that challenge me to think differently and expand my creative boundaries.