We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Lisa J. Lai ("LJL").
Architects-led Hong Kong-based spatial and virtual design studio specializing in residential, commercial, and performance projects. We prioritize the intertwining of narrative and technology as the basis of our methodology. We aim to enhance human connections and elicit emotions with our designs.
Lisa J. Lai Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Lisa J. Lai.
Lisa J. Lai Design - Balanco Stackable Stools
Designer Interview of Lisa J. Lai:
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?
LJL : We are trained as architects, having worked on mixed-used, hospitality, and residential projects over the years. We are inspired by how design is able to transform and improve the community and individual’s lives.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
LJL : At TATI studio, we prioritize creating design for people using the most suitable solution and materiality. Our design methodology is anchored in the unique narrative of the site and its client as the overall concept, permeates to the crafting details. With a focus on cultural and education projects, our work celebrates and reflects in its form-giving the great diversity of the communities and people we are privileged to serve.
DI: What is "design" for you?
LJL : Design is framing and understanding the problem, the site and the users, doing in-depth and appropriate research, and providing the best functional and aesthetic solution with the available resources.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
LJL : We particularly enjoy interdisciplinary projects that blur the boundaries between architecture, art, and technology. This includes immersive installations, interactive spaces, and multi-functional objects that engage users and evoke emotional responses.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
LJL : As a studio, our first brief was to create a solution to enhance the living condition during the pandemic as people and community. Inspired by the pebble towers, we designed Balanco - a series of multifaceted blocks, offering unlimited possibilities to arrange, position, and stack. As it requires significant patience and calmness to balance the blocks, it serves as one of the practical yet fun solutions for friends and families to enjoy with one another. When it is not used as objects for play, it doubles as stools and tables for adults and children.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
LJL : In terms of tools and technologies we use to assist our design process: We usually begin with hand sketches, as we “think with our hands”. We usually proceed with 3D modeling softwares, drafting softwares, and BIM softwares, such as Rhino, AutoCAD and Revit, respectively. Physical models and virtual model, through VR headsets, are also essential for us to experience the space, and for us to communicate our vision with the clients.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
LJL : As designers/ architects, we are drawn to different forms of expressions. Often, art works and films enable us to see the different perspectives of human living and they also act as a form of inspiration to our projects.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
LJL : When designing, we primarily focus on functionality and usability to ensure the design effectively meets user needs. We also devote significant attention to aesthetic appeal and sustainability, aiming to create innovative, beautiful, and environmentally-conscious solutions.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
LJL : When our work is realized, designing is very fulfilling. Witnessing how our designs enhance people’s lives, it gives us a deep sense of satisfaction. We also try to remain objective and open to feedback for continuous improvement.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
LJL : Designers have a responsibility to consider the social and environmental impact of their work. When possible, designers should aim to conserve, recycle, and upcycle materials as part of the design process and final product.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
LJL : The design field is becoming more interdisciplinary, data-driven, and focused on individual experience. Emerging technologies like AI, AR/VR, and new materials will shape the future of design. We, as designers, have to embrace this future.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
LJL : Our primary focus is on institutional and educational projects, hence, our clients are schools, NGOs and public organizations. Our other area of focus includes working with hospitality and residential-related clients.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
LJL : As a design studio, our team collaborates closely, regularly sharing ideas and providing constructive feedback to deliver the best solutions for our clients. We leverage our individual strengths and specialized skills, taking on distinct responsibilities to collectively create innovative solutions.
DI: How can people contact you?
LJL : Our website: www.tati-studio.com Instagram Handle: tati.architects