Interview with Xianlong Deng from the United States

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Xianlong Deng

As a nationally recognized architectural designer with degrees from Wuhan University of Technology and the University of Pennsylvania, Xianlong Deng has worked at top firms like Gensler and Genesis AEC. At Genesis, he contributed to important pharmaceutical projects for clients like Merck and Pfizer.

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

As a nationally recognized architectural designer, I had a solid education background and abundant professional experience. I graduated with a Bachelor's degree in Architecture from Wuhan University of Technology, and obtained a Master's degree in Architecture from the University of Pennsylvania. Previously worked at internationally renowned architectural design firms such as Gensler, SOM, and Genesis AEC.

At Gensler, I played a leading role in design studio and contributed to numerous large-scale architectural design projects, serving clients including Universal Studios, The Bally’s, and Vista Property, among other well-known companies and developers. Projects involved include Kinzie & Morgan mixed-use development, Grand Rapids mixed-use development, Los Angeles Universal Studios Security System planning, and Confidential Casino Hotel Design.

At Genesis, contributed to laboratory and pharmaceutical factory projects, serving global pharmaceutical clients such as Merck, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson etc.

2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
I grew up in a real estate investor family and have seen many buildings being constructed. Through these experiences, I witnessed firsthand how good design can enhance the success of a project and elevate the living standards of clients. This profound realization has inspired and motivated me to become a designer who can positively influence people's lives
3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.

At Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill (AS+GG), I am fortunate to be a critical member of a world-leading company renowned for its design excellence and innovation. AS+GG has successfully designed numerous iconic mega-scale projects, including but not limited to the Trump Tower in Chicago, the Shanghai Jinmao Tower, and the 1 Dubai Tower.

In my role, I am actively leading the design process of various projects, contributing to the creation of innovative and groundbreaking architectural solutions. On a daily basis, I engage in critical tasks such as creating models, rendering visualizations, and producing drawings to bring design ideas to life. My work encompasses a diverse range of responsibilities, from conceptualizing designs to collaborating with multidisciplinary teams to ensure the successful realization of each project.

Working at AS+GG allows me to continuously challenge myself and push the boundaries of architectural design. I am proud to be leading and critical member of the company that consistently delivers exceptional and visionary projects that shape the landscape of our cities and inspire generations to come.

4What does “design” mean to you?

To me, "design" is more than just creating aesthetically pleasing objects; it's about problem-solving and innovation. Design is the process of identifying challenges or opportunities and using research, knowledge, skills, and creativity to develop effective solutions. Whether it's designing a product, a building, or a user experience, the goal of design is to address the needs and desires of people and improve their quality of life.

Design has the power to solve complex problems, enhance functionality, and elevate the human experience. It's about creating solutions that are not only visually appealing but also functional, sustainable, and meaningful. Ultimately, design has the potential to shape the world around us and make a positive impact on society.

5To you, what makes a “good” design?

To me, a "good" design is one that is deeply rooted in understanding and serving the needs of its users. It is a design that is inclusive, accessible, and empathetic towards the people it serves. A good design is not just about aesthetics or functionality; it is about creating meaningful experiences that enhance the lives of individuals and communities. It considers the diverse perspectives, backgrounds, and abilities of its users, ensuring that everyone feels valued and included.

Furthermore, a good design is sustainable and responsible, minimizing its impact on the environment and future generations. It incorporates thoughtful material choices, efficient use of resources, and innovative solutions to address environmental challenges.

Ultimately, a good design is timeless, enduring the test of time and remaining relevant and impactful for years to come. It embodies creativity, innovation, and excellence, while also reflecting the values and aspirations of the society it serves.

6Describe your design style and its main characteristics.

My design style is heavily rooted in human-centric principles and context-based considerations. I prioritize designing with a deep understanding of the needs, preferences, and behaviors of the people who will interact with the space or product. This human-centered approach ensures that the design not only meets functional requirements but also enhances the overall user experience.

Furthermore, I place great importance on respecting the context of the project, whether it be cultural, historical, or environmental. I believe that every design should respond sensitively to its surroundings, integrating seamlessly with the existing fabric of the environment while also contributing positively to its enhancement.

In essence, my design style is characterized by its emphasis on empathy, functionality, and harmony with the context. By prioritizing the human experience and respecting the unique qualities of each project's context, I strive to create designs that are not only visually appealing but also meaningful, sustainable, and enriching for the users and their surroundings.

7Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?

My design process revolves around identifying and addressing problems effectively. To begin, I thoroughly analyze the client's needs and objectives, ensuring a comprehensive understanding of the project's context and challenges. This initial phase is crucial for identifying the core issues that require resolution.

Next, I engage in brainstorming sessions to explore innovative solutions that align with the project's goals and constraints. This creative phase allows me to generate a range of ideas and concepts, considering various perspectives and approaches. Throughout the process, I prioritize collaboration and feedback, involving stakeholders and team members to ensure a holistic and informed decision-making process.

Additionally, I emphasize iterative prototyping and testing to refine and validate design solutions, ensuring their practicality and effectiveness. Overall, my design process is characterized by a systematic and iterative approach focused on problem-solving and innovation, ultimately delivering impactful and tailored solutions to meet the client's needs.

8Congratulations! 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?

Winning the 2024 MUSE Design Awards holds immense significance for me, and our team. Personally, it marks a pivotal moment in my career, elevating my profile recognition internationally and affirming the excellence of my skills. This prestigious award recognizes my extraordinary ability in the design realm, further solidifying my reputation in the architectural field.

Moreover, it reflects the collective effort and dedication of our team, showcasing our commitment to innovation and creativity in every project we undertake. Overall, receiving this award distinction is a testament to our hard work and accomplishments, inspiring us to continue pushing the boundaries of architectural design.

9Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?

The team introduced the concept of "flowing energy," drawing inspiration from local traditional beliefs, to infuse the commercial area with a distinctive ambiance. The team integrated the other buildings including theater center, commercial street, residential in the town through comprehensive design coordination. This concept of "flowing energy" permeated throughout the entire project, imbuing the music town with dynamic, vibrant, and inviting spaces. Furthermore, the team also meticulously designed the visitor route and curated the commercial experience , significantly enhancing the storytelling aspect of the project.

Yichang Music Town Conceptual Planning project has received national recognition and critical acclaim. The project also turned out to be a great commercial success. Its success will attract billions of yuan in infrastructure investments to the city. The government of Yichang city places great importance on this project as it aims to establish a world-class music town that will generate substantial revenue for the government budget and bring enormous economic impact to the city.

10How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?

Winning such a distinguishing award has been a milestone in my career. It has served as a landmark, solidifying my top position in the industry and opening doors to new opportunities. The recognition of my work by prestigious organizations has not only boosted my confidence but also validated my exceptional skills and expertise in the field.

It has enhanced my credibility and visibility, leading to increased trust from clients and collaborators. Furthermore, the award has provided me with valuable networking opportunities and exposure to a wider audience, allowing me to expand my professional network and attract potential clients and partners.

Overall, winning an award has significantly contributed to the development and advancement of my practice, propelling me towards greater success and recognition in my career journey.

11What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
Innovative, creative and meaningful.

Winning Entry

Yichang Music Town | 2024

yichang-music-town-xianlong-deng

This project represents a pivotal urban design initiative aimed at transforming a small town within Yichang city into a world-famous …
(Read more at MUSE Design Awards)


Xianlong Deng

As a nationally recognized architectural designer with degrees from Wuhan University of Technology and the University of Pennsylvania, Xianlong Deng has worked at top firms like Gensler and Genesis AEC. At Genesis, he contributed to important pharmaceutical projects for clients like Merck and Pfizer.


Read more about this interview with Yan Chen for Danxia Mountain Tourist Resort, China, the Gold Winner of the 2024 MUSE Design Awards.

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