Interview with Chunxuan Yu for MINA – Your Health Expert

Jessica Kewei Lin, Xiesiyuan Shu and Sirui Li | London Design Awards
Interview with Jessica Kewei Lin, Xiesiyuan Shu and Sirui Li
February 27, 2024
NYA-mengqiu-hu-thumb
Interview with Mengqiu Hu for Shroom and Calmi
February 27, 2024

Chunxuan Yu

Chunxuan Yu is an experienced designer who possesses a deep understanding of how to balance aesthetics, functionality, and business impact. His design philosophy integrates business insight, innovative design, and strategic research.

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

I am an experienced designer with a profound understanding of balancing aesthetics, functionality, and business impact. My design philosophy weaves together business insight, innovative design, and strategic research.

I've collaborated across various sectors, including Technology, Healthcare, Retail, Manufacturing, and Education, with notable projects for Alibaba, Frog, Philips, GE, Lenovo, and GAC Group.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
My path to design was driven by a deep-seated curiosity and an appreciation for the transformative power of design in shaping experiences and societal narratives. The design's substantial economic and societal influence, particularly in enhancing well-being and sustainability, solidified my commitment to this impactful field.
3Tell us more about your agency/company, job profile, and what you do.
At GE Appliances, as a Senior UX Designer, I lead in crafting intuitive and functional user experiences. My responsibilities encompass understanding consumer needs and delivering innovative design solutions. Through my co-founded venture, Inwoo Design in China, I have been able to apply a unique blend of aesthetics and practicality to a diverse clientele.
4What does “design” mean to you?
Design, to me, is a unique blend of creative imagination and pragmatic problem-solving. It's about empathising with users, anticipating their needs, and designing experiences that are both innovative and comfortably familiar.
5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
I am drawn to designs that perfectly balance innovative functionality with aesthetic appeal, catering to real-world needs while offering the user an element of surprise and delight.
6To you, what makes a “good” design?
A good design is characterised by its ability to intuitively address the user's needs, creating solutions that are not only functional but also emotionally resonant and memorable.
7How did you come up with the idea for your award-winning design?
My favorite phase in the design process is co-creation, where ideas are developed collaboratively with users, transforming concepts into practical and impactful solutions.
8What was your main source of inspiration for this design?
My design inspiration is deeply rooted in a fusion of Eastern depth and Western innovation, drawing from the rich cultural heritage of China and the forward-thinking ethos of American design philosophy.
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
My Chinese heritage has significantly shaped my design approach, infusing my work with a balance and harmony reflective of the country's rich artistic traditions and philosophical principles.
10Congratulations! As the winner of the London Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
Winning the London Design Awards symbolises recognition of my innovative spirit and dedication. It enhances our global standing and motivates us to pursue even higher standards of excellence in design.
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 London Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
Our award-winning project, "MINA - Your Health Expert," exemplifies the integration of technology and health, addressing the growing trend of personalised wellness, a need that became more pronounced during the COVID pandemic.
12What were the main challenges you faced during the design process, and how did you overcome them?
The primary challenge in developing MINA was achieving a seamless synergy between the AI-driven app and the hardware. We focused on ensuring real-time, efficient performance, balancing complex algorithms with robust hardware functionality.
13How do you think winning this award will impact your future as a designer?
This recognition has strengthened my dedication to innovative design and leading my team towards pioneering solutions, establishing novel industry benchmarks, and promoting continuous creativity.
14What are your top three (3) favourite things about our industry?

Dynamic evolution: The ever-changing landscape of the design and technology sectors offers endless learning and growth opportunities.

Real-World impact: The ability to tangibly enhance user experiences and contribute significantly to various aspects of everyday life.

Collaborative dynamics: The industry thrives on diverse perspectives, leading to comprehensive and innovative solutions.

15What sets your design apart from others in the same category?
My design style stands out for its emphasis on empowering team members, fostering collaborative creativity, and ensuring inclusivity, making sure our designs are accessible to a wide range of users.
16Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
I envision a future where design intertwines more deeply with technology, sustainability becomes a core principle, inclusivity is prioritised, global collaborations flourish, storytelling gains prominence, and adaptability remains key for creatives.
17What advice do you have for aspiring designers who want to create award-winning designs?

Continuously update your skill set and knowledge base.

Develop a distinct style to differentiate your work.

Engage in collaborative projects to gain varied perspectives.

Seek constructive feedback to refine your designs.

Persevere through challenges and view them as opportunities for growth.

Allow your passion for design to be your guiding force.

18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
To enhance design skills, engage in a combination of practical experience and theoretical learning. Explore online courses on platforms like Coursera and Skillshare. Read insightful books like "The Design of Everyday Things". Visit sites like Behance, Dribble, and Awwwards for inspiration, and utilise resources like CritiqueHub and Nielsen Norman Group.
19Tell us something you have never told anyone else.
During the initial phase of the MINA project, I experienced a moment of doubt, wondering if we had aimed too high. A saying from my grandmother, "Every big journey starts with a single step," helped me regain my confidence and drive the project to success.
20Who has inspired you in your life and why?
My high school art teacher, Miss Zhang, has been a significant inspiration in my life. Her teachings about the depth and communicative power of design, along with her emphasis on perseverance and growth, have deeply influenced my design journey.
21What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?

My success hinges on three pillars: constant learning, adaptability, and building genuine relationships. Understanding people's aspirations and challenges enhances my human-centric design approach.

My advice: "Remain inquisitive and grounded. Value the journey as much as the destination, embracing each challenge and relationship along the way.”

22Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
I'm excited about my upcoming book focused on design innovation. This project aims to share my experiences and insights, providing a comprehensive guide for emerging designers and contributing to the growth of the design community.

Winning Entry

MINA - Your Health Expert | 2023

mina-your-health-expert-inwoo-design-mixfit-chunxuan-yu

Amidst the COVID crisis, People realized there was no one-size-fits-all solution in diet or supplements. People began reevaluating their lifestyles ...
(Read more at London Design Awards)


Chunxuan Yu

Chunxuan Yu is an experienced designer who possesses a deep understanding of how to balance aesthetics, functionality, and business impact. His design philosophy integrates business insight, innovative design, and strategic research.


Read more about Chunxuan Yu's interview for the 2023 TITAN Health Awards!

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