We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Huiyu Wang ("HW").
Huiyu Wang is the CEO of FAT, a company specializing in innovative mobile app development. FAT has gained recognition for creating solutions that enhance digital experiences for users worldwide. With a focus on empowering indie artists, FAT's flagship product, Handy, serves as a phone theme marketplace connecting over 1.5 million users with 300 artists. Huiyu Wang's dedication to merging technology with creativity drives FAT's success and sets it apart in the industry.
Huiyu Wang Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Huiyu Wang.
Huiyu Wang Design - Smarty AI Keyboard App
Designer Interview of Huiyu Wang:
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?
HW : My background in art and design began with studying architecture at Penn State University. This education provided me with a strong foundation in design principles and aesthetics. However, my interest in technology and how people interact with it led me to transition into mobile app design. I became a designer because I wanted to merge functionality with creativity, creating intuitive and visually appealing experiences for users. While I didn't always know I wanted to be a designer, my journey through architecture and technology revealed a passion for design that continues to drive me today. This path has allowed me to create meaningful and impactful digital experiences that enhance everyday interactions with technology.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
HW : FAT, the company I founded, specializes in creating innovative mobile applications that enhance user experiences. Our team is dedicated to developing apps that are not only functional but also visually engaging and user-friendly. One of our flagship products is Handy, a phone theme marketplace that connects over 1.5 million users with more than 300 indie artists. This platform allows artists to showcase and sell their creations, while users can personalize their devices with unique themes. At FAT, we strive to push the boundaries of mobile app design by blending creativity with cutting-edge technology, ultimately providing products that resonate with users and support the creative community.
DI: What is "design" for you?
HW : FAT, the company I founded, specializes in creating innovative mobile applications that enhance user experiences. Our team is dedicated to developing apps that are not only functional but also visually engaging and user-friendly. One of our flagship products is Handy, a phone theme marketplace that connects over 1.5 million users with more than 300 indie artists. This platform allows artists to showcase and sell their creations, while users can personalize their devices with unique themes. At FAT, we strive to push the boundaries of mobile app design by blending creativity with cutting-edge technology, ultimately providing products that resonate with users and support the creative community.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
HW : I enjoy designing works that combine functionality with creativity, particularly those that enhance user interaction and personalization. Mobile applications, like our flagship app Handy, are among my favorites because they offer a unique opportunity to blend aesthetic elements with practical use. I love creating platforms that empower users to express their individuality, such as customizable phone themes, while also supporting indie artists. Projects that challenge conventional design norms and push the boundaries of user experience are particularly rewarding, as they allow me to innovate and explore new creative possibilities.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
HW : One of my most favorite designs is our app Handy, a phone theme marketplace. Handy stands out because it bridges the gap between functionality and creative expression. It allows users to personalize their mobile devices with unique themes created by indie artists, enhancing the aesthetic and emotional experience of using their phones. What makes Handy particularly special to me is its dual impact: it empowers artists by providing them a platform to showcase and sell their work, while giving users the ability to customize their devices in meaningful ways. The app's success, with over 1.5 million users and more than 300 artists, is a testament to the power of combining innovative design with community support. This project exemplifies my passion for creating designs that not only look good but also have a positive impact on people's lives.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
HW : The first thing I designed for a company was an ATM that allows users to deposit cash and convert it into Bitcoin. This project was particularly exciting because it combined traditional financial services with cutting-edge technology, offering a new way for users to engage with digital currencies. I focused on creating an interface that was secure, user-friendly, and intuitive, ensuring that even users unfamiliar with Bitcoin could navigate the process easily. This experience was foundational in my career, highlighting the importance of bridging technology and usability to create innovative solutions that meet emerging market needs.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
HW : My favorite platform to work with is mobile app technology. Mobile devices have become an integral part of everyday life, and designing for this platform allows for a direct and personal connection with users. The versatility and accessibility of mobile apps offer endless possibilities for creativity and innovation. I particularly enjoy leveraging the latest advancements in mobile technology to create intuitive and engaging user experiences. This platform also provides the opportunity to support and empower communities, such as indie artists through our app Handy, making it both a rewarding and impactful area to work in.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
HW : I feel the most creative when I'm exploring new and diverse sources of inspiration. This often happens when I step outside my usual routine and immerse myself in different environments, whether it's through traveling, visiting art galleries, or even simply spending time in nature. These experiences provide fresh perspectives and spark new ideas. Additionally, I find that collaborating with my team during brainstorming sessions, where we exchange ideas and challenge each other, also fuels my creativity. These moments of exploration and collaboration are when my creativity thrives the most.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
HW : During the design process, I focus on usability, aesthetics, and user experience. I ensure the design is intuitive and easy to navigate, making every element purposeful. Visual appeal is crucial, so I pay attention to color schemes, typography, and layout to create an engaging look and feel. Additionally, I strive to create an emotional connection with users by understanding their needs and designing enjoyable and satisfying interactions. Balancing these aspects results in functional, beautiful, and meaningful designs.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
HW : When I design, I feel a mix of excitement and fulfillment. The creative process is invigorating, especially when exploring new ideas and finding innovative solutions. There's also a sense of satisfaction and pride in creating something that enhances user experiences and brings joy to people. Overall, designing evokes a blend of enthusiasm, creativity, and a deep sense of purpose.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
HW : When my designs are realized, I feel a profound sense of accomplishment and pride. Seeing an idea come to life and positively impact users is incredibly rewarding. There's also a sense of joy and satisfaction in knowing that the design enhances user experiences and meets their needs. Additionally, I feel motivated and inspired to continue creating and innovating, driven by the success of seeing my work make a difference.
DI: What makes a design successful?
HW : A design is successful when it effectively combines functionality, aesthetics, and user satisfaction. It should be intuitive and easy to use, visually appealing, and capable of meeting the users' needs and expectations. Additionally, a successful design creates an emotional connection, making the experience enjoyable and memorable for the user. Balancing these elements ensures that the design is both practical and impactful.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
HW : When judging a design, I first consider its usability and functionality. It should be intuitive and solve the intended problem effectively. Next, I evaluate the aesthetics, ensuring the design is visually appealing and cohesive. Finally, I assess the user experience, looking for an emotional connection and overall satisfaction. These aspects together determine whether a design is good or bad.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
HW : Designers have significant responsibilities towards society and the environment. They should create designs that are not only functional and aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and ethically sound. This includes using environmentally friendly materials, minimizing waste, and considering the lifecycle of their products. Designers should also ensure their work is inclusive, accessible, and enhances the well-being of all users. By integrating these considerations, designers can contribute to a more sustainable and equitable world.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
HW : The design field is evolving rapidly with advancements in technology and a growing emphasis on sustainability and user experience. The integration of AI and machine learning is enabling more personalized and adaptive designs, while augmented reality (AR) and virtual reality (VR) are opening new dimensions for immersive experiences. The future of design will likely focus on creating more intuitive, user-centric solutions that leverage these technologies. Sustainability will continue to play a crucial role, with designers increasingly adopting eco-friendly materials and practices. Additionally, there will be a stronger focus on inclusivity, ensuring designs are accessible to all. Overall, the future of design will be characterized by innovation, responsibility, and a deeper connection between technology and human experience.
DI: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
HW : My last exhibition was held in Shanghai in 2022, where we showcased the latest features and themes from our app Handy. It was a great opportunity to connect with users and artists, and to see firsthand the impact of our work. As for the next exhibition, I am looking forward to holding it in 2024. We are planning to showcase new innovations and collaborations, highlighting the continued evolution of our designs and the growing community of indie artists who contribute to Handy. It will be an exciting event to share our latest developments and engage with our audience once again.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
HW : The design inspiration for my works comes from a variety of sources, including architecture, nature, fine arts, toys, and everyday objects. These diverse influences help me bring fresh perspectives to my designs. To feed my creativity, I explore new environments, travel, visit art galleries, and engage with different cultures. I also find inspiration through collaboration and brainstorming sessions with my team. Staying curious and open to new experiences continually fuels my creative process, allowing me to incorporate unique elements into my designs.
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?
HW : My design style is user-centric, intuitive, and visually engaging. I focus on creating clean, functional designs that enhance the user experience. The main characteristics of my style include simplicity, attention to detail, and a strong emphasis on usability and aesthetics. I was drawn to this style because I believe that design should not only be beautiful but also serve a practical purpose. My approach involves understanding user needs, brainstorming creative solutions, and iterating on feedback to refine the design. This ensures that the final product is both functional and delightful, providing a seamless and enjoyable experience for users.
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?
HW : I live in New York City, a vibrant and diverse hub of creativity and innovation. The cultural heritage and dynamic environment of the city significantly influence my designs. The constant exposure to different cultures, ideas, and trends fosters a rich source of inspiration and keeps me attuned to the latest developments in design and technology. Living in New York City offers many advantages, such as access to a wealth of resources, events, and networking opportunities. The city's diversity encourages a broad perspective and inclusivity in design, while the fast-paced environment promotes continuous innovation and adaptability. However, there are also challenges, such as the high cost of living and the competitive atmosphere, which can create pressure to constantly innovate. Additionally, navigating the city's hustle and bustle can be overwhelming at times. Overall, living in New York City provides a stimulating environment that profoundly shapes and enhances my design work.
DI: How do you work with companies?
HW : When working with companies, I prioritize clear communication and collaboration to ensure that the design process aligns with their goals and vision. Initially, I engage in detailed discussions to understand their needs, target audience, and project objectives. This helps in crafting a tailored design strategy that addresses their specific requirements. Throughout the project, I maintain regular updates and open channels of communication, allowing for feedback and adjustments as needed. This iterative process ensures that the final product meets the company's expectations and delivers a seamless user experience. By fostering a collaborative environment, I can create designs that not only fulfill the project's goals but also resonate with the end users.
DI: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
HW : For companies working with a designer, I suggest maintaining open communication and providing clear, detailed briefs about project goals and expectations. Regular feedback and collaboration throughout the design process are crucial for achieving the desired outcome. To select a good designer, companies should look for a strong portfolio that demonstrates a range of skills and successful past projects. It's important to find a designer whose style and approach align with the company's vision and needs. Additionally, consider a designer's ability to understand user experience and their flexibility in adapting to feedback and changes. Conducting interviews or initial project discussions can also help assess the designer's compatibility with the company's culture and objectives.
DI: Can you talk a little about your design process?
HW : My design process begins with thorough research and understanding of the project goals, target audience, and user needs. This foundational step ensures that the design is grounded in real-world requirements and expectations. Next, I brainstorm and sketch initial concepts, exploring various ideas and approaches. This creative phase is collaborative, often involving discussions with my team to refine and expand on the best ideas. Once we have a solid concept, I move into prototyping, creating detailed mockups and interactive models. This allows for testing and gathering feedback, which is crucial for iterating and improving the design. Throughout the process, I prioritize usability, aesthetics, and user experience, ensuring that the final product is both functional and visually appealing. Regular reviews and adjustments are made based on feedback, leading to a polished and effective design that meets the project's objectives.
DI: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
HW : Five of my favorite design items at home are my minimalist desk lamp, which has a sleek design and adjustable brightness, providing both functionality and aesthetic appeal, and my ergonomic office chair, designed for comfort and support, helping maintain good posture during long work hours. I also love my smart speaker, which combines technology with elegant design, offering seamless control over various home functions with voice commands. Another favorite is my modular shelving system, a versatile piece that allows for customizable storage solutions, adapting to different needs and spaces. Lastly, my abstract art prints add a touch of creativity and inspiration to my living space, reflecting my personal taste in art. Each of these items blends functionality with aesthetic value, enhancing both the usability and visual appeal of my home environment.
DI: Can you describe a day in your life?
HW : A typical day in my life starts with an early morning routine that includes some exercise and a healthy breakfast to get energized for the day. I then head to my workspace, where I begin by reviewing my schedule and prioritizing tasks. Mornings are usually dedicated to focused work, such as brainstorming new ideas, sketching designs, or working on ongoing projects. I find that I’m most creative and productive during this time. Mid-morning, I often have meetings with my team to discuss project progress, share feedback, and collaborate on solutions. Lunchtime is a welcome break, providing a chance to recharge and sometimes catch up on industry news or inspiration sources. Afternoons are spent refining designs, prototyping, and incorporating feedback from clients or team members. I also allocate time for administrative tasks and checking emails. In the evening, I try to wind down by engaging in activities that help me relax and disconnect from work, such as reading, spending time with family and friends, or enjoying a hobby. Before bed, I often reflect on the day’s achievements and plan for the next day to stay organized and focused. This balance of creative work, collaboration, and personal time helps me stay productive and inspired in my design career.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
HW : For young designers, here are a few pearls of wisdom that might help you along your journey: 1. **Stay Curious and Keep Learning**: The design field is always evolving, so continuously seek new knowledge and stay updated with the latest trends, tools, and techniques. Curiosity will fuel your creativity and keep your skills sharp. 2. **Embrace Feedback**: Constructive criticism is invaluable for growth. Learn to accept and learn from feedback, and use it to improve your work. It’s an essential part of becoming a better designer. 3. **Build a Strong Portfolio**: Your portfolio is your most powerful tool. Focus on quality over quantity, showcasing your best work and demonstrating your range of skills. Highlight projects that reflect your unique style and capabilities. 4. **Network and Collaborate**: Build relationships with other designers, professionals, and mentors in the industry. Collaboration can lead to new opportunities, insights, and inspiration. 5. **Stay Resilient and Persistent**: The path to success can be challenging and filled with setbacks. Stay resilient, keep pushing forward, and don’t be afraid to experiment and take risks. Persistence is key to achieving your goals. 6. **Prioritize User Experience**: Always keep the end-user in mind. Design with empathy and aim to create solutions that are not only visually appealing but also functional and user-friendly. By following these suggestions, young designers can build a strong foundation for their careers and navigate the creative industry with confidence and passion.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
HW : As a designer, there are several positives and negatives that come with the territory. On the positive side, being a designer allows you to express your creativity and bring your ideas to life, which is fulfilling and exciting. You have the opportunity to make a significant impact on people's lives by creating functional and aesthetically pleasing solutions, enhancing user experiences and solving problems. The design field is constantly evolving, offering endless opportunities to learn new skills, techniques, and technologies, which keeps the job dynamic and engaging. Additionally, design skills are versatile and in demand across various industries, providing a wide range of career paths and project types to explore. However, there are also some negatives to consider. Designers often work under tight deadlines and high expectations, which can be stressful and demanding. Design is highly subjective, and receiving criticism or rejection can be challenging, requiring flexibility and resilience to balance client preferences with your creative vision. The intense nature of design projects can sometimes lead to long hours and difficulty maintaining a healthy work-life balance. Finally, while continuous learning is a positive aspect, it also means you must constantly adapt and stay updated with the latest trends and tools, which can be demanding. Overall, being a designer is a rewarding career that offers creativity, impact, and continuous growth, but it also comes with challenges that require resilience and adaptability.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
HW : My "golden rule" in design is to always prioritize the user experience. This means creating designs that are intuitive, functional, and aesthetically pleasing, ensuring that every element serves a purpose and enhances the overall interaction. By keeping the user's needs, behaviors, and preferences at the forefront of the design process, you can create solutions that are not only visually appealing but also deeply satisfying and effective for the end user. This user-centric approach is key to successful and impactful design.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
HW : For a designer, several skills are essential for success. Firstly, **creativity** is crucial as it drives innovation and the ability to think outside the box. **Technical proficiency** in design software and tools is also important for executing ideas effectively. Strong **communication skills** are vital for collaborating with clients and team members, and for articulating design concepts clearly. **Attention to detail** ensures that every element of the design is well-crafted and functional. Additionally, **problem-solving abilities** help in addressing user needs and overcoming design challenges. Finally, a deep understanding of **user experience (UX) principles** is fundamental for creating intuitive and engaging designs. These skills combined enable a designer to produce work that is both aesthetically pleasing and highly functional.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
HW : During the design process, I use a variety of tools and resources. My toolbox includes both software and hardware, as well as sources of inspiration. **Software**: I primarily use Adobe Creative Suite (including Photoshop, Illustrator, and XD) for graphic and UI design, Sketch and Figma for collaborative design and prototyping, and AutoCAD for any architectural elements. **Hardware**: My setup includes a high-performance computer with a large monitor for detailed work, a graphics tablet for precise drawing and illustration, and a smartphone and tablet for testing mobile designs. **Books**: I regularly reference design books like "The Design of Everyday Things" by Don Norman and "Don't Make Me Think" by Steve Krug for UX principles, as well as various art and design publications for inspiration. **Sources of Inspiration**: I draw inspiration from diverse fields such as architecture, nature, fine arts, toys, and everyday objects. I also keep up with design trends through websites like Behance and Dribbble, and attend industry conferences and workshops to stay current and inspired. This combination of tools and resources helps me create designs that are both innovative and user-centric.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
HW : Designing can indeed be time-consuming, so effective time management is crucial. Here are some strategies I use: 1. **Prioritization**: I start by identifying and prioritizing tasks based on their importance and deadlines. This helps me focus on what needs to be completed first and allocate time accordingly. 2. **Structured Workflow**: I break down large projects into smaller, manageable tasks. This structured approach allows me to tackle one step at a time without feeling overwhelmed. 3. **Time Blocking**: I use time blocking to allocate specific periods for focused work, meetings, and breaks. This helps me maintain a balance between productivity and rest, ensuring that I stay efficient throughout the day. 4. **Tools and Technology**: I utilize project management tools like Trello or Asana to keep track of tasks and deadlines. These tools help me stay organized and provide a clear overview of the project's progress. 5. **Setting Milestones**: I set short-term milestones and deadlines within the project timeline. This not only keeps the project on track but also provides a sense of accomplishment as each milestone is achieved. 6. **Minimizing Distractions**: I create a conducive work environment by minimizing distractions. This includes setting boundaries for uninterrupted work time and using techniques like the Pomodoro method to stay focused. By implementing these strategies, I can manage my time effectively, ensuring that I meet deadlines while maintaining the quality and creativity of my designs.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
HW : The time it takes to design an object from beginning to end can vary widely depending on the complexity and scope of the project. For a relatively simple design, such as a basic mobile app interface, it might take a few weeks. This includes initial research, brainstorming, sketching, prototyping, and refining based on feedback. For more complex projects, like a comprehensive mobile application with multiple features or a product with intricate design elements, the process can take several months. This timeline includes extensive research, multiple rounds of iteration, user testing, and final adjustments to ensure the design meets all requirements and expectations. Ultimately, the duration of the design process is influenced by factors such as project size, the level of detail required, collaboration and feedback cycles, and the designer's workflow. Each project is unique, and the timeline is tailored to meet its specific needs and goals.
DI: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
HW : As a designer, the most frequently asked question I receive is, "What inspires your designs?" People are often curious about the sources of creativity and ideas that drive my work. They want to understand how I come up with unique concepts and how I translate those inspirations into functional and visually appealing designs.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
HW : My most important job experience was designing the ATM that enables users to deposit cash into Bitcoin. This project was pivotal because it combined traditional financial services with emerging digital currency technology. It required me to address security, usability, and user experience challenges, pushing me to innovate and think creatively. This experience significantly shaped my approach to design, emphasizing the importance of blending functionality with cutting-edge technology to create impactful solutions.
DI: Who are some of your clients?
HW : Some of my clients include FAT, LLC, Sylvie Essentialist, and Sprout. Working with these diverse clients has allowed me to apply my design skills across various industries and projects, further enriching my experience and expertise.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
HW : I enjoy designing consumer social products, particularly mobile applications that teenagers use every day. These projects require a keen understanding of user behavior and preferences, focusing on creating intuitive and engaging interfaces that resonate with young users. It's rewarding to design products that not only look appealing but also enhance social interaction and connectivity among teenagers. The fast-paced nature of social technology and the need to stay current with trends make this work dynamic and continuously exciting, fostering constant learning and innovation.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
HW : My future plans involve continuing to innovate and push the boundaries of mobile app design. I aim to develop new features and enhancements for Handy, our phone theme marketplace, to further empower indie artists and provide users with even more customization options. Additionally, I plan to explore new projects that leverage emerging technologies like augmented reality and artificial intelligence to create even more immersive and personalized user experiences. On a broader scale, I hope to expand FAT's reach and impact, collaborating with diverse clients and industries to apply our design expertise to a wider range of challenges. I'm also committed to fostering a creative and inclusive work environment within FAT, supporting the growth and development of our talented team. Overall, my focus will be on combining creativity and technology to create meaningful and impactful designs that enhance everyday life.
DI: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
HW : I work as part of a collaborative team at FAT. While I often take the lead in conceptualizing and guiding the design process, the development and refinement of our projects involve contributions from a talented group of designers, developers, and other professionals. This collaborative approach allows us to leverage diverse perspectives and skills, resulting in more innovative and well-rounded designs. Teamwork is essential in ensuring that our projects meet the high standards we set for usability, aesthetics, and user experience.
DI: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
HW : Yes, we have several exciting works-in-progress at FAT that I’m eager to share. One of our major projects is an enhanced version of Handy, our phone theme marketplace. We’re developing new features that will provide even more customization options for users and additional tools for indie artists to showcase their work. Additionally, we’re exploring a new social app designed specifically for teenagers. This app aims to provide a safe and engaging platform for social interaction, incorporating the latest trends in augmented reality and AI to create immersive experiences. These projects reflect our commitment to innovation and our focus on creating products that enrich users’ digital lives.
DI: How can people contact you?
HW : People can contact me via email at huiyu@fatapp.io. I look forward to connecting and discussing potential collaborations, projects, or any inquiries related to our work at FAT!
DI: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
HW : One additional point I'd like to highlight is the importance of community in our work at FAT. We believe in creating platforms that not only serve our users but also support and empower creative communities. This is exemplified in Handy, where we provide a marketplace for indie artists to showcase and sell their work, helping them reach a wider audience and gain recognition. We are always exploring new ways to integrate community support and collaboration into our projects, ensuring that our designs have a positive and lasting impact. If anyone has ideas or initiatives that align with this vision, I would love to hear from you and explore how we can work together to further these goals.