Interview with Xingzhi Ou for “Coming Home for Dinner”

Chuxiong Feng | MUSE Design Awards
Interview with Chuxiong Feng from the United States
May 28, 2024
Zerong Yang | French Design Awards
Interview with Zerong Yang for Clink Clicker
May 28, 2024

Xingzhi Ou

As a seasoned interior designer, Xingzhi Ou utilizes her rich cultural heritage and technological in her work and her approach goes beyond mere aesthetics as she aims to design spaces that pleases the eyes and touches the heart.

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

I am from a captivating island renowned for its cultural heritage and technological advancements. As an experienced interior designer, my mission transcends aesthetics—I strive to create spaces that evoke visual delight and emotional resonance.

As a professional interior designer, I am passionate about crafting spaces that are not only visually appealing but also feel good. I have always been fascinated by the power of design and its ability to transform ordinary spaces into extraordinary experiences. This passion carried over into my adult life, prompting me to pursue a degree in interior design.

Over the years, I have honed my skills and developed a unique style that seamlessly integrates functionality with aesthetics. I believe every space tells a story, and my goal is to turn that story into reality through thoughtful and innovative design.

I continually seek new challenges and opportunities to grow as a designer. I am excited about the future and look forward to continuing to create beautiful and inspiring spaces.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
My design journey commenced during childhood, as I playfully rearranged furniture in my room. This passion evolved into a professional pursuit.
3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.

"Ten Wide Interior Design"is an interior design firm led by two seasoned design directors. Our company is dedicated to crafting aesthetically pleasing, functional, and sustainable spaces, firmly believing that design can enhance the quality of life.

Our team is committed to delivering high-quality work that not only meets but exceeds client expectations. We work closely with our clients, understanding their visions and goals, striving to create designs that reflect their unique style and personality, fulfilling the interior design needs of homeowners.

4What does “design” mean to you?

"Design, to me, signifies a kind of mission. It's not just about aesthetics or functionality; it's about making a meaningful impact on people's lives. Through design, we have the power to inspire, to solve problems, and to create environments that truly enhance the human experience.

Each project we undertake is not just a task, but an opportunity to fulfill this mission, to create spaces that resonate with emotion, functionality, and sustainability. Design is not just what we do; it's who we are, and it's our commitment to making a difference in the world, one space at a time."

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

My favorite type of design is one that is sustainable, renewable, and energy-efficient. Sustainability isn't just a buzzword for me; it's a fundamental principle that guides my approach to design. I am passionate about creating spaces that minimize environmental impact, utilize renewable resources, and reduce energy consumption.

Whether it's through innovative materials, efficient technologies, or thoughtful planning, I believe that sustainable design holds the key to a more resilient and harmonious future. By embracing sustainable practices, we can not only create beautiful and functional spaces but also contribute to a healthier planet for generations to come.

6To you, what makes a “good” design?

For me, what constitutes 'good' design goes beyond mere aesthetics or functionality. It's about creating solutions that seamlessly integrate form and function while also addressing the needs and aspirations of the end user. Good design is intuitive, enhancing usability and user experience. It considers sustainability, ensuring that the impact on the environment is minimized.

Moreover, good design transcends trends, possessing a timeless quality that withstands the test of time. Ultimately, good design is about making a positive impact on people's lives, enriching experiences, and fostering connections between individuals and their environments.

7Describe your design style and its main characteristics.

My design style and its primary characteristics revolve around meeting client needs while prioritizing ergonomics and creating spaces infused with sunlight, air, and water.

I believe in designing spaces that not only fulfill the requirements of my clients but also enhance their overall well-being. To achieve this, I prioritize ergonomics, ensuring that the layout and functionality of the space align with human comfort and efficiency.

Moreover, I strive to infuse each space with ample natural light, fresh air, and a sense of openness. Natural elements like sunlight and ventilation not only contribute to the aesthetic appeal of a space but also promote a healthier and more invigorating environment for occupants.

In essence, my design ethos is centered around creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also conducive to the physical and emotional well-being of those who inhabit them.

8Tell us about your design process.

Our design process encompasses a journey from understanding to daring assumptions, emphasizing attention to detail.

Understanding: We begin by thoroughly comprehending the needs, desires, and vision of our clients. This phase involves in-depth discussions, site visits, and analysis to gain insights into the project requirements and constraints.

Details: With a solid understanding in place, we delve into the specifics, meticulously examining every aspect of the project. From spatial layouts to material selection, we leave no detail overlooked, ensuring that each element contributes harmoniously to the overall design concept.

Boldness: Armed with comprehensive knowledge and attention to detail, we embark on the daring stage of our process. Here, we push boundaries, challenge conventions, and explore innovative ideas to bring originality and creativity to the design. This phase encourages bold experimentation and the exploration of unconventional solutions.

Assumptions: Throughout the process, we make informed assumptions based on our expertise and experience. These assumptions serve as guiding principles, steering the design in the right direction while remaining open to adaptation and refinement as the project evolves.

In summary, our design process is a dynamic journey that evolves from understanding the client's needs to daringly assuming innovative solutions, all while maintaining a keen focus on detail and creativity.

In essence, my design ethos is centered around creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also conducive to the physical and emotional well-being of those who inhabit them.

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

As an interior designer, my design process is deeply rooted in the rich cultural heritage of my homeland. Influenced by my country's blend of tradition and modernity, I prioritize harmony, balance, and respect for nature in my designs.

Traditional architecture in my country has taught me the importance of integrating built environments with natural surroundings, resulting in spaces that are both visually appealing and environmentally conscious.

Drawing inspiration from my country's diverse cultural heritage, I aim to infuse my designs with a sense of place and identity, telling stories through every space I create.

Furthermore, my country's commitment to sustainability guides my design ethos, prompting me to prioritize the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient solutions.

In summary, my heritage not only shapes my design aesthetics but also instills in me a sense of responsibility towards the environment and cultural preservation, enriching the spaces I create with meaning and purpose.

10Congratulations! As the winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?

As the proud recipient of the prestigious MUSE Design Award, this recognition represents a pivotal moment for me, my colleagues, and our entire team. It is not merely an acknowledgment of our exceptional design. It is a testament to our unwavering dedication, relentless effort, and innovative approach.

Securing this honor further solidifies our standing in the local and global design arenas. It has opened exciting avenues for us to showcase our creations on a larger scale and connect with a broader audience. This accolade serves as a powerful catalyst, boosting team morale, reinforcing our confidence in the significance of our work, and igniting a passion to reach new heights.

11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2024 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

Our goal is to create a warm and inviting dining atmosphere, reminiscent of being at home. The arrangement of tables and chairs is designed to accommodate private dining for two or three people, as well as family gatherings.

The kitchen features glass partitions, allowing diners to witness the cleanliness of food preparation, providing a sense of security akin to cooking in one's own kitchen. Simultaneously, we prioritize comprehensive accessibility design, including barrier-free access and accessible restroom provisions.

Our design philosophy prioritizes the creation of a harmonious and sustainable environment, ensuring a safe, pollution-free dining space. We use materials that comply with VOC and low formaldehyde (HCHO) standards, along with implementing innovative ventilation systems and energy-efficient lighting.

The exterior walls provide ample natural light through glass, ensuring seamless integration between accessible pathways and indoor-outdoor spaces.

Participating in the MUSE Design Awards is about validating our design principles and methods and encouraging us to push the boundaries of what's possible in design. Essentially, the MUSE Design Awards are more than just trophies; they're inspirations. They symbolize our dedication, creativity, and passion for design. They remind us of how far we've come and guide us towards future endeavors.

12What was the biggest challenge with this project?
The biggest challenge in interior design projects is often balancing client expectations with practical constraints such as budget, timeline, and space limitations. This requires creative problem-solving, effective communication, and collaboration to deliver a design that meets both aesthetic desires and functional needs while staying within the project's parameters.
13How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?

Winning this prestigious award has a significant impact on our future as designers. It validates our hard work and creativity, enhancing our reputation in the industry and attracting potential clients.

Additionally, it boosts our visibility internationally, opening doors to global design events and collaborations. Most importantly, it inspires us to continue pushing the boundaries of design, striving for excellence, innovation, and growth.

Ultimately, winning this award is not just an achievement but a catalyst for our ongoing design journey towards greater success and a brighter future.

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

In the design field, three aspects stand out to me: creativity, problem-solving, and impact. Creativity fuels our ability to transform ideas into tangible realities. Problem-solving is at the core of design, offering the satisfaction of finding solutions that are both practical and beautiful.

Design's impact on how people interact with the world adds a sense of purpose to our work. These elements drive my passion for design, making it an endlessly fulfilling journey.

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

In the competitive world of interior design, standing out means addressing client needs, focusing on detail, ensuring safety and health, and enhancing living spaces.

By understanding clients' visions, paying attention to detail, and prioritizing safety, designers can create spaces that truly shine. It's about crafting environments that not only meet but exceed expectations, making a lasting impact on occupants' lives.

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

In the next 5-10 years, the design industry will witness significant shifts. With technology advancements, there'll be a focus on sustainability and eco-friendly practices.

Virtual and augmented reality will reshape visualization and collaboration. Diversity and inclusivity will be prioritized, and customization will rise. Flexible lifestyles will drive demand for adaptable spaces, while wellness-focused design will gain traction.

Overall, the future of design will be marked by innovation, sustainability, inclusivity, and adaptability.

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

For aspiring award-winning designers:

Passion: Love what you do and let it fuel your creativity.

Curiosity: Stay curious and always be eager to learn.

Originality: Dare to be different and bring fresh ideas.

User-centricity: Design with empathy, understanding users' needs and experiences.

Sustainability: Consider the environmental impact of your designs.

Remember, every great designer started as an enthusiast. Embrace mistakes, keep improving, and believe in yourself. Your journey to creating award-winning designs begins now.

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

Social events and conferences offer valuable chances for designers to engage with peers, gather feedback, and network with industry experts. Attending design-related gatherings fosters continuous learning, encourages idea exchange, and inspires creativity.

Improvement in design skills is an ongoing journey requiring curiosity, exploration, and a willingness to step out of comfort zones. Remember, embracing opportunities for growth and maintaining a mindset of constant learning and innovation are key to success in the design field.

Winning Entry

"Coming Home for Dinner": Nostalgia for the Taste of Hometow | 2024

"Coming Home for Dinner": Nostalgia for the Taste of Hometow | Ten Wide Interior Design Company

Every city carries a unique charm, encapsulating the essence of our homeland and representing the most refined taste in the world. In …
(Read more at MUSE Design Awards)


Xingzhi Ou

As a seasoned interior designer, Xingzhi Ou utilizes her rich cultural heritage and technological in her work and her approach goes beyond mere aesthetics as she aims to design spaces that pleases the eyes and touches the heart.


Read more about Xingzhi Ou's interview for the 2024 French Design Awards!

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