
Interview with Kevin Ching from Hong Kong S.A.R., China
September 19, 2023
Interview with Seokjun An from United States
September 21, 2023
Interview with Kevin Ching from Hong Kong S.A.R., China
September 19, 2023
Interview with Seokjun An from United States
September 21, 2023Interview With The 2023 London Design Awards Winner – Shahen Markarian
I am an experienced product designer with a track record of winning international awards in various fields. Over the past seven years, I have dedicated myself to honing my skills in the digital product design industry. For three years, I held a leadership position in the design department of prominent companies in Shanghai, China.
Throughout my career, I have collaborated with diverse organisations, including renowned names like Mantra Dao Corp and RioDefi, as well as established corporations, crafting digital products that cater to the needs of their users. Presently, I am proud to serve as the head of the design department at a Florida-based company where I lead a talented team in developing highly innovative and user-centric digital products.
I became a product designer because of my deep passion for creating meaningful and impactful experiences for people. From a young age, I was always fascinated by how design can shape the way we interact with the world around us. Whether it was the sleek lines of a well-designed car or the intuitive interface of a website, I was drawn to the idea of crafting products that not only looked beautiful but also enhanced the lives of their users.
Throughout my educational journey, I explored various creative disciplines but design always stood out as the perfect blend of artistry and problem-solving. I realised that as a product designer, I could merge my artistic skills with my analytical mindset to develop solutions that address real-world challenges.
As an experienced product designer with a background in designing furniture, my favourite kind of design undoubtedly centres around furniture design. The reasons for this preference are rooted in my passion for creating functional art that enhances people's lives while blending creativity and practicality.
Furniture design offers a unique canvas for me to combine artistic expression with the tangible impact on daily living. The process of conceptualising and crafting furniture pieces is like sculpting functional sculptures that people can interact with, use, and appreciate in their homes or spaces.
An exceptional design seamlessly integrates user-centricity, functionality, aesthetics, innovation, sustainability, and meticulous attention to detail. It goes beyond meeting practical needs and strikes an emotional chord with users, enhancing their lives.
A truly remarkable design possesses adaptability and timelessness, transcending fleeting trends. It serves as a testament to the designer's unwavering pursuit of excellence and their profound recognition of design's transformative potential to create positive impacts in the world.
In the next 5-10 years, the design industry will experience significant changes and advancements. Sustainability will take precedence with a strong focus on eco-friendly materials and responsible manufacturing. Technology will reshape the design process, integrating virtual reality, AI, and 3D printing.
Customisation will rise, allowing for personalised products. Collaboration across disciplines will foster comprehensive solutions. The industry will become more interconnected globally, drawing inspiration from diverse cultures and expanding international markets. Designers will lead the way, driving innovation and creating meaningful solutions for a changing world.
As an experienced product designer who has won international awards, I would offer the following advice to aspiring designers who aspire to create award-winning designs. Cultivate curiosity, continuous learning, and a deep understanding of user needs.
Embrace collaboration, iteration, and feedback while finding a balance between aesthetics and functionality. Persevere through challenges, believe in yourself, and remain true to your authentic design perspective. By following these principles, you can embark on a fulfilling design journey and increase your chances of creating award-winning designs.
An aspect that I might not have mentioned explicitly before is the profound sense of fulfilment and pride I experience when I see my designs positively impacting people's lives. The journey is not just about the accolades; it's about the impact we can have on society and the world at large.
When I see my designs being embraced, cherished, and sparks joy and utility to users, it reinforces my passion for design and motivates me to continue pushing the boundaries of creativity and innovation.
Winning Entry
Modern Bauhaus | 2023
After being influenced by the German product designer and founder of the Bauhaus concept and architecture, Walter Gropius … (Read more at London Design Awards)
Shahen Markarian
Shahen Markarian is an award-winning product designer who remains dedicated to honing his skills in the digital product design industry for the past seven years and is currently the head of the design department in Florida.
Read more about this interview with Pei Yao (Heather) Tang for KASHA M, the Gold Winner of the 2023 London Design Awards.