1 Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.

Throughout my high school years, I delved into the diverse world of art, honing my skills in various mediums such as pencil and charcoal drawing, watercolor and ink painting, and immersing myself in both Eastern and Western art history. This passion for artistic expression led me to pursue interior design in college, where I dedicated myself to mastering the craft. Upon graduating, I embarked on a fulfilling career in the industry, where I have had the privilege of designing and constructing a multitude of commercial spaces throughout Japan. From large corporations to chain restaurants, department stores to boutiques and jewelry brands, I have gained extensive experience in creating captivating and functional environments that meet the unique needs of each client.

2 What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?

Art often evokes emotions, whereas design needs to address practical issues while also considering aesthetics. My goal is to blend art and design in a physical space where sensitivity and rationality can interact, leading to exciting chemical reactions and producing a functional and visually pleasing environment.

3 Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.

Iris Chen Interiors Ltd is an international full service decoration and interior design company based in Taipei, Asia. With the freedom of the times, innovation, showing different home styles and trajectories, through the awareness of the customer's true desire, and the design of the completed space, the dialogue between people through the time and space, to attract the natural operation of the vitality, and coexist with the co-prosperity of the feeling of happiness and abundance. With the deep millennium Chinese fine art culture as a guide, the continuation of the natural landscape mood and the five elements of feng shui into which the display of wood carvings, stone carving art, or the use of clouds, rendering patterns with bamboo, wood, rattan texture to convey the natural landscape space atmosphere, through the introduction of the mysterious colors and cultural origins of the Orient, the strong and soft, east and west, and the establishment of a series of high-end projects in the world. Our goal is to create highly personalized, sophisticated and futuristic sensory experiences for our clients through the fusion of art, design and modern technology. Our interiors are a perfect blend of aesthetics and art, craftsmanship and texture, sustainability and technology, the five senses and mood, enabling us to express our clients' unique tastes. Drawing inspiration from our extensive travels, we have developed relationships with a select group of highly innovative European brands and top artisans, whose exceptional capabilities enable us to create one-of-a-kind pieces for any project. Our in-house expertise in fashion, photography, art and design come together to create contemporary interiors that exude warmth, elegance and originality, and our dedication to full service ensures that all aspects of a project are taken care of in a timely manner. Experienced international team from start to finish. A diverse portfolio of projects including private residences, turnkey properties, commercial and office spaces. Our philosophy and desire for continuous development has inspired us to collaborate with many innovative leading European furniture designers and international artists. The end result is a selection that combines design and sophistication with the diverse creative interpretations of experienced architects, artists, craftsmen and furniture designers throughout the project. The ultimate goal is to create a highly personalized and unique home environment for each client. Whether embarking on new home construction or remodeling projects, full service interior design and project management is the foundation upon which Iris Chen Interiors Ltd has built its business. With each of our projects around the world, Iris Chen Interiors Ltd ensures that our clients are provided with services from the initial design conversation to the final finishing and styling details of the completed project. The Iris Chen Interiors Ltd team, including our vetted general contractors and partner architects (where required), are able to plan, manage and deliver well orchestrated finished projects. Passionate about making their design ideas accessible to the public, Iris Chen Interiors Ltd will work with artists and product designers to create a range of products for the home.

4 What does “design” mean to you?

Design is a crucial tool that facilitates effective communication and fosters a deeper connection between people and their surrounding spaces. Whether it's commercial design aimed at creating functional and aesthetically pleasing environments for businesses or interior design focused on enhancing the ambiance of living spaces, design plays a pivotal role in shaping the quality of human experiences.

5 What’s your favorite kind of design and why?

In the realm of design, there exist various styles and historical backgrounds. Personally, I am drawn towards a classical approach as it allows for reinterpretation through modern mediums of expression. Design is closely linked to the humanities and is all about people. My aim is to incorporate culture and history in my work to provide clients with unique and diverse experiences. Different clients require different types of work. As for me, I enjoy blending classical and modern styles. Aesthetics, proportions, and colors are all interrelated and vary across different periods. Currently, I am fond of this design expression as it exudes a sense of classicism and high quality, even if the materials used are not necessarily of the highest quality. The texture of the final product is what truly matters.

6 To you, what makes a “good” design?

A well-designed space should prioritize the relationship between nature, people, and the environment. For a home, it is important to consider factors such as ventilation, lighting, and a sense of stability, while commercial spaces should reflect the unique styles and emotions of different brands. A good design should establish a strong connection between people, nature, and their surroundings. Designers must not only create functional and comfortable spaces, but also use their creativity to evoke an emotional response from the user. A space should not only be comfortable, but also a place of mental and emotional rest.

7 Describe your design style and its main characteristics.

When it comes to my design style, I tend to gravitate towards a modern interpretation of classic design styles that were prevalent in the past. My approach involves utilizing a range of design techniques to emphasize the key features and proportions of both commercial and residential spaces, so that they can maximize their spiritual power. In order to achieve this, I take into account the historical and cultural spirit of the user or brand that I am designing for. My ultimate goal is to create a design that exudes a sense of classic elegance and surprise, leaving a lasting impression on those who experience it.

8 Tell us about your design process.

Based on the customer's first impression and my observation of their needs, I engage in extensive communication to understand their ultimate goal. Through repeated speculation, I strive to find a balance between their actual needs and desires. Finally, I provide visual aids such as pictures and 3D drawings to help the client visualize and finalize their ideas for the space.

9 Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?

As a native of Taiwan, I understand the emotional and empathetic nature of the Taiwanese people. I strive to provide practical and thorough solutions to their problems by utilizing my strong passion and emotional intelligence. In my design work, I aim to strike a balance between sensibility and rationality, integrating the passion of Taiwanese culture with the principles of effective design to create ideal spaces for my clients. Taiwan has a rich cultural history, having been an agricultural society and later colonized by Japan. Situated at the heart of Eastern culture, Taiwan is a melting pot of diverse cultures including those from Japan, Korea, China, and Southeast Asia. This cultural fusion has resulted in a greater level of inclusiveness and has also incorporated Western influences, leading to a unique blend of Eastern and Western design elements.

10 Congratulations! As the winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?

We feel thankful to MUSE for acknowledging and honoring our work, including its aesthetics and design. This recognition has enabled us to shine on the international stage of MUSE, and we are humbled to receive recognition from our design peers. The award has brought joy and a sense of accomplishment to our clients, which has given our team a boost of confidence. We will continue to maintain strong client relationships and strive for further development and growth. MUSE's encouragement and motivation have been invaluable to our team.

11 Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

For a company that blends traditional and modern electronics, I aim to merge oriental Feng Shui and traditional elements with contemporary methods to reimagine the space. The goal is to create a harmonious balance between traditional and modern elements and integrate traditional oriental aesthetics into the design. Through this approach, the oriental elements can be showcased and presented in a new and innovative way.

12 What was the biggest challenge with this project?

Creating the CEO's office proved challenging as the Chairman strictly adhered to Feng Shui principles and fire regulations. Furthermore, the design requirements were conveyed through the Chairman's secretary and special assistant, rather than directly from the Chairman. The main objective was to establish a peaceful and balanced environment that promotes overall well-being, including physical, mental, and spiritual relaxation.

13 How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?

Winning an award is a great way to recognize our team's hard work and jumpstart our career development. It also boosts our clients' trust in us and enhances our professional reputation.

14 What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?

One crucial element of this industry is appreciating beauty. With various materials and visualizations available, every project brings its own unique spark. Personally, I see beauty as a gift that always surprises and delights me. Another crucial aspect is client relations management. It is a challenge that feels like an adventure. Although each case has its own set of procedures, it also serves as a valuable learning experience. Looking back, it is easy to laugh at past difficulties, but overcoming them builds resilience and determination. This experience reinforces the notion that nothing is impossible. The third aspect regards the immense feeling of happiness and freedom that accompanies successfully completing a project for a client. This field requires a lifetime of knowledge and experience, and the process can be long and challenging. However, I admire the courage of those who have persevered through the different stages. The sense of satisfaction and freedom that comes with a job well done, as well as the client's approval, is beyond measure.

15 What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?

Due to its location near China, Japan, Korea, and other Southeast Asian countries, Taiwan is a central hub that appreciates diverse cultures. In the design industry, it is essential to embrace and reinterpret new creativity. While I have faith in Taiwan's design industry, we must continue to strive to connect with other nations. Eastern cultures tend to be more subdued and conservative, which creates an opportunity for refinement. People in Taiwan's design field will gradually recognize their self-worth, but only when they overcome their reserve. Hence, let us showcase our culture more frequently and make it shine on the global platform.

16 Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?

As technology and the internet continue to advance, people are becoming more dependent on them for convenience and leisure. Consequently, there has been an increasing demand for soft furnishings such as interior fabrics, flexible decorative surfaces, and a range of colors. With the ongoing pandemic, more individuals are spending time indoors, making comfort and relaxation crucial considerations in interior design. In the future, the trend will include smart home technology, convenient tools like lazybones, and a specialized division of labor for professional interior design.

17 If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?

Developing a consistent routine of exercise and leisure activities is crucial for maintaining optimal physical and psychological health. It takes time and effort to strike a healthy balance, but the key to success lies in exhibiting integrity, responsibility, and honesty towards clients. I am delighted to share that MUSE is an exceptional competition that not only highlights participants' talents but also offers a stunning competition image and trophy as a reward.

18 What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?

There are numerous skills and resources that can be accessed through different apps and online platforms. In my experience, Instagram and Pinterest have been especially effective tools. Enhancing one's skills is a matter of broadening one's horizons. Engaging in activities like texting and reading can also aid in skill development. Through sharing and exchanging ideas with peers, individuals can discover more creative ways to improve their skills in the design industry.

19 Tell us something you have never told anyone else.

I enjoy watching Stephen Chow's movies and believe a sense of humor is a crucial component of innovation.

20 Who has inspired you in your life and why?

I draw inspiration from various aspects of nature, finding beauty in everything from flowers and trees to minerals and animals. Nature often exhibits the golden ratio and Fibonacci series, which are sacred geometries commonly found in art and design. Mathematics and geometry serve as potential models for the patterns found in nature. Whether it is art, architecture, galaxies, humans, or music, numerical and geometrical themes are ubiquitous and consistently move and inspire me. The beauty of nature is truly awe-inspiring, as evidenced by the intricate and perfectly formed golden shell of a tortoise. In addition to nature, I also find inspiration in music. Bold and vibrant colors in fashion, such as those used by Hermes or other European brands, inspire me in regards to texture and design, as we cannot directly wear flowers or trees on our bodies. Rather, we must establish a physical connection with our inspiration through the art of design.

21 What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

In the future, my focus will consistently center on the principles of nature and sustainability. I aspire to merge Eastern and Western influences, cultural traditions, and historical contexts. Through the medium of design, I aim to communicate a fresh perspective on these concepts.

22 Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?

I find pearls and diamonds equally fascinating, despite their differences. While pearls are round, shiny, and come from the ocean, diamonds are made up of various facets and originate from the earth. During my previous travels to Europe, I had the opportunity to view Paris as a diamond and Milan as a pearl, each constantly improving and refining themselves. This fusion also brings to mind New York, a place where cultures collide to create something entirely new. I believe that design offers a fresh way of interpreting and appreciating the impact and sparks of various cultures. It's an amazing journey to rediscover history and culture through this lens.

WINNING ENTRY

Interior
2023
MUSE Design Awards Winner - Co-Existence and Co-Prosperity by  Iris Chen Interiors International LTD.

Entrant Company

Iris Chen Interiors International LTD.

Category

Interior Design - Office