French Design Awards Panel

United States

Jiayuan Wang

Design Director, VSDesign

Jiayuan Wang, a renowned designer specializing in digital media and product design, is based in Seattle. As design director at VSDesign, her diverse portfolio spans healthcare, education, and technology, with key projects at the University of Washington, Memorial Sloan Kettering Cancer Center, and more.

Recognized for her dedication to design excellence and innovation, she has earned over ten prestigious international awards. Her acclaimed work has been widely exhibited, including at the 2024 Kent Summer Art Exhibit, Aquarium - 2024, and the Anacortes Arts Festival, and was featured as the cover design for Issue 27 of "Landscapes in Process" at the University of Pennsylvania.

Jiayuan brings valuable experience from her previous roles as a web UI/UX designer and consultant, specializing in interaction design for cloud-based restaurant management, sustainable e-commerce, and enterprise software. Prior to joining VSDesign, she honed her leadership skills as a lead designer at a startup.

United States

Yang Fei

Founder and Director, Field Object Lab

Yang Fei is the founder and director of Field Object Lab, an architecture and landscape design consultancy based in Boston and New York City. With a career spanning multiple countries, he holds a Master’s degree from the Harvard Graduate School of Design and served as a project designer at Kohn Pedersen Fox in New York for over three years, contributing to notable projects such as the HKUST Guangzhou Campus and the CITIC Tower in Beijing. Currently, he leads Field Object Lab, focusing on creating spaces and sensory experiences that resonate with both individuals and broader contexts.

Yang Fei has a diverse range of experiences, particularly in adaptive reuse. His previous works include repurposing buildings such as a 17th-century townhouse in Montreal and Kenzo Tange's gymnasium in Japan. He strives to re-contextualize and re-situate old structures within contemporary life while preserving the authenticity of their origins.

His work has been recognized with awards such as the Harvard James Templeton Kelley Prize, the Architizer A+Awards, the Architecture MasterPrize, and the International Design Awards. Additionally, his projects have been exhibited at the European Cultural Centre's "Time Space Existence" in Italy and at the UABB 2022's "Exodusolarism, Walking Cities in Light" in Shenzhen.

United States

Yafei Zhang

Associate Principal / BIM Lead / Adjunct Professor, Kohn Pedersen Fox; Kean University

With over a decade of experience in the architecture field, Yafei has honed her expertise in large-scale, multi-building urban developments, with a particular focus on contemporary workplaces.

As a BIM Leader and Associate Principal at KPF, she has led the technical execution of projects from concept through completion, notably the Bund Fosun Center in Wuhan, China. Since 2020, with her critical knowledge, Yafei has served as BIM lead for a large team executing a 1.2 million-square-foot interior office fit-out for a well-known multinational technology company at 50 Hudson Yards in New York City.

As an adjunct professor of Architecture at Kean University, she has led the Professional Practice Seminar. Imparting practical knowledge and real-world insights to aspiring next generation of architects and helping them bridge the gap between academic learning and the demands of the professional architecture industry.

With experience ranging from urban planning to commercial to interior, Yafei has built her architectural knowledge through design, construction administration, and on-site construction work. Yafei received a Master of Architecture degree from UCLA, and is a registered architect in the state of New Jersey.

United States

Xiyao Wang

Associate Principle, KOHN PEDERSEN FOX ASSOCIATES PC

Xiyao Wang, a licensed architect and member of the AIA, is a distinguished professional known for his innovative and transformative contributions to the field of architecture. With a rich professional background spanning over eight years, Xiyao has honed his skills in some of the world's most prestigious architectural firms and institutions.

Currently serving as an Associate Principal at Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates in New York, Xiyao leads the design, detailing, and documentation of cutting-edge façade designs for high-rise buildings. His expertise in parametric design tools and advanced 3D modeling techniques has been pivotal in conceptualizing and developing architectural strategies for both domestic and international projects. Xiyao's work is characterized by a deep understanding of environmental regulations, urban constraints, and client needs, which he seamlessly integrates into his design process.

His academic credentials are equally impressive, with a Master of Architecture in Urban Design from Harvard University and a Master and Bachelor of Architecture from Tsinghua University.

China

Yingfan Zhang

Co-founder and chief architect, Atelier Alter Architects

Yingfan Zhang is the co-founder and chief architect of Atelier Alter Architects. She graduated from the Urban Design program at the Graduate School of Architectural Design at Harvard University and the Cooper Union Architecture program in New York on a full scholarship. Yingfan studied under architectural luminaries such as Raimund Abraham, John Hejduk, and Peter Eisenman. She has worked at RMJM North America and Atelier Raimund Abraham Architects, where she specialized in exploring the unique cultural context of sites through artistic techniques and conveying care for humanity and society through abstract poetry.

One of her representative works, the Jing History Museum, showcases her ability to respond to nature with architectural language born from the site's context, reflecting her critical thinking on architecture, innovative pursuit of architectural language, and capacity to shape the cultural field of architecture. Yingfan has also contributed to the academic field, teaching at Tsinghua University and Tianjin University for many years.

China

Liu Jianhui

Founder , Matrix Design

Liu Jianhui entered the interior design industry in 2004 and founded IDMEN Indoor China Network in 2007. In 2019, he was honored as one of the "China Decoration Designing Industry Top Ten Youths," cementing his position as one of the leading representatives of young Chinese designers. His work has been nominated nine times for the prestigious Andrew Martin International Interior Design Award, often referred to as the "Oscar" of interior design, achieving excellent results in top international awards.

Throughout his career, Liu Jianhui has adhered to a design philosophy that draws inspiration from nature, using natural principles as the foundation for his creations. He combines environmental perspectives with advanced creativity to enhance designs, contributing industry wisdom to the development of sustainable and innovative solutions. His work actively promotes collaboration, innovation, and progress within the design community and society as a whole.

United States

Artem Kropovinsky

Founder and Principal Designer, Arsight

Artem Kropovinsky is more than just an expert in interior design; he is a luminary who has dedicated over a decade to the industry. His passion for the craft is palpable, with his work extending far beyond mere occupation to a testament of life's remarkable pursuits. As the visionary behind Arsight, a renowned New York-based design studio, Artem has led groundbreaking projects across both residential and commercial spaces. His versatility and adaptability have consistently set him apart.

Recognition of Artem's prowess was unmistakably evident when he emerged as a finalist in the NYCxDESIGN Awards. This acknowledgment underlines both his innovative spirit and his profound respect for cultural heritage in design. Always on the cutting edge, Artem champions the integration of the Metaverse, Virtual Reality (VR), and Augmented Reality (AR) in his projects. Such pioneering efforts have redefined client experiences, particularly for partners like Societhy. By offering immersive pre-implementation visualizations, he allows clients to fully grasp their future spaces, thereby solidifying their confidence and minimizing potential risks.

Artem's professional relationships tell another story of his excellence. His collaborations with luxury property developers in New York have consistently delivered dual benefits: an elevated aesthetic appeal and significant financial returns. Such projects have optimized completion timelines and meaningfully boosted property valuations. As a leader, Artem shines in mentoring roles. At the helm of a dynamic design team, he emphasizes individual growth, ensuring that every member reaches their zenith of potential.

Further, Artem's collaborations span a diverse spectrum. From esteemed furniture makers like Design Galleria Kitchen and Bath Studio to tech innovators such as Virtual Staging Solutions, his partnerships are indicative of a holistic approach to design solutions. A unique feather in his cap is his expertise in marrying historical reverence with contemporary design. Notable projects like the Weyanoke Hotel and Catbird Restaurants bear testimony to this skill, wherein spaces are crafted to be both enduring and current.

Russia

Vargov Anton

CEO, Vargov®️Design

Vargov Anton serves as the Founder and Chief Designer at Vargov®Design, with educational roots in the Department of Design at FAIS NovSU. Recognized through numerous accolades from international design and lighting innovation competitions like EPDA, ADD, BLT, LDA, NYPDA, SIT, ICONIC, MUSE, HOUZEE, IADA, IDA, LIT, and "Russian Light Design," Anton champions the philosophy "Art Without Limits." His approach emphasizes freedom of expression, creating works that challenge traditional design concepts, alongside a commitment to innovation and global thinking in art and design.

China

Bo Zhang

Creative Director, Desz Office

Bo Zhang , artist, designer . He studied Industrial Scuola Politecnica di Design in Milan, Italy ,and studied at the Savannah College of Art and Design, USA, where he obtained a Master of Fine Arts. In 2019, Bo founded Desz Office ( Beijing Xushijian Engineering Design Co., Ltd.), a creative studio that mixes art, design, material and communications to balance art and design, expresses the relationship between people and space, stimulates people's imagination of contemporary art and design.

"Make creations which never before" is Desz unchanging philosophy. Creativity and originality are the most solid foundations on which his works can be recognized and loved. He believes a good artwork should be sentimental, have a soul, not a cold entity, but a wonderful interaction with people. This kind of interaction has both a visual level and a spiritual level, giving people inspiration and yearning.

Malaysia

Shawn Goh Chin Siang

Co-founder & Creative Director, Shawn Goh Design Lab.

Shawn Goh Chin Siang, the Co-founder and Creative Director of Shawn Goh Design Lab, has established a prominent footprint in the design world over the past decade. With extensive expertise in brand and packaging design, Shawn has garnered international recognition and multiple awards. His work has received accolades in Malaysia, South Korea, Germany, and Italy, reflecting his global impact and appeal.

Shawn's commitment to excellence is evident from his impressive array of awards. These include several distinctions and consistent recognitions at the MUSE Creative Awards from 2017 to 2023. Notably, Shawn received the Outstanding Leadership Talent Award in 2022, and was honored in G Forty's Top 40 for Individual Achievement in Malaysia the same year.

Beyond his award-winning work, Shawn is frequently featured in Malaysian media, where he is celebrated as the preferred brand designer among the local population.

China

Yolande Wong

CEO, Beijing Zhijian Culture Communication Co.,Ltd

Yolande Wong holds the position of Chief Content Operating Officer Beijing Zhijian Culture Communication Co.,Ltd.

With a decade of immersion in the media industry, Yolande Wong brings extensive expertise in brand management, media communication, and marketing strategy. She stands out as one of the pioneering brand operation managers in China's design sector, advocating and executing market segmentation strategies. Her experience is not limited to the Chinese market, as she also possesses the capability to deliver services on a global scale.

Her portfolio includes collaborations with numerous design firms and decoration conglomerates, including Golden Mantis, Grandland Group, Matrix Design, and Tengyuan Design, where she has planned and executed various design projects and events, managing teams of up to 1000 individuals. Her writings frequently appear in publications such as “Chinese Architectural Decoration” and “Personage Decoration”. Wong's dedication to the media and design industries is exemplified by her extensive involvement in brand management and media communication.

Italy

Florian Seidl

Design Manager, Lavazza

Florian Seidl, based in Turin, brings extensive experience to the role of creative design manager at Lavazza.

He oversees Lavazza's corporate design, encompassing a wide array of products, from household coffee and espresso machines to professional office equipment and vending solutions, as well as tableware, accessories, and award-winning packaging. Prior to his role at Lavazza, he played a key role in expanding the Fiat 500 into a diverse range of models and contributing to numerous other projects now seen on the road.

Seidl's expertise in the design field has been instrumental in positioning Lavazza as a notable presence in the realm of modern Italian Design. His creative acumen, honed through years of experience, has not only contributed to Lavazza's remarkable designs but also ensured that the brand's distinctive approach and aesthetic are seamlessly communicated and celebrated both within the borders of Italy and on a global stage.

Bulgaria

Vasil Velchev

Media & Product Life Cycle Manager, Europe, Ideal Standard International NV

Despite earning a master's degree in electrical engineering, Vasil Velchev has amassed over a decade of experience as a graphic designer within global organizations. Initially, his foray into product design was more of a hobby, but as his creations gained international recognition and garnered awards, his confidence in his ideas grew.

Several years ago, He initiated the MAGMA project, a platform aimed at consolidating his diverse creations under one umbrella. The project's name is symbolic, representing the designer's belief that every original idea should remain in a constant "liquid" state, continuously evolving to explore its full potential and staying vibrant until it transforms into a tangible product.

Velchev also serves as a valued member of the Grand Jury for prestigious awards. His remarkable talent has earned him approximately 20 international awards across various categories, with a primary focus on furniture design, recognized by design awards worldwide.

Argentina

Lucho González

General Creative Director, Avión de Papel

Lucho is a Publicist, Bachelor in Comunication, postgraduate in Marketing and strategy. With 15 years of experience in the advertising industry both in Chile and Argentina, he is the founder and Creative Director of Avión de Papel and a member of the Board of Directors of ACAP (Association of Advertising Agencies of Córdoba).

Lucho has also been a member of the jury in national and international prestigious advertising festivals: New York Festivals Advertising Awards, The Lisbon International Advertising Festival, El Ojo de Iberoamérica, Premios CLAP, FePI Festival, Premios Jerry Goldenberg, Premios Obrar – Consejo Publicitario Argentino, Lápiz de Oro y Lápiz de Platino.

As Creative Director of Avión de Papel, Lucho has lead his independent agency to win awards, such as “Agency of the year” by Infonegocios twice and Top iberoamericano FICE once, and also numerous awards in advertising festivals: New York Festivals Bowery Awards, WINA (World Independent Advertising Awards), FICE (Iberoamerican Festival of Creativity and Strategy), CLAP (Internationals Awards of Design) EIKON (Awards for Excellence in Institutional Communication) FEPI (International Festival of Independent Advertising).

He has conceived iconic campaigns that have been exposed multiple times in media, even during COVID-19 in a specific gallery that highlights the creativity of the industry during this context, the “Creative Gallery” at Advertising Week JAPAC at New York.

Canada

Romaicia Naser

Founder & Creative Director, Monarch Collective

Being a creative with a passion for visual arts, it has always been natural to implement an 'out-of-the-box' approach to marketing, design and branding. Nothing has been more rewarding for me than to be able to embrace this freethinking, creative mentality coupled with my advanced, adaptive and ever-growing skill set, to excel in my professional career as an Entrepreneur, Creative Director and Brand Developer. Stepping out of my comfort zone, on many occasions, has resulted in recognition on a broader scale through national awards and honours including a nomination for the Top 40 Under 40 class of 2016 for Calgary, Alberta. With over a decade of investment in the design trade, I have acquired the reputation to lead multi-platform marketing and branding for all digital esthetics and their counterparts across new and established businesses. Building and sustaining a strong unity and balance in art & design as well as streamlining ideas and establishing creative teams is where I thrive. My persistence and continuous drive to push compelling and creative ideas forward have expanded Kukoon Media's reach in to new markets on a global scale.

Denmark

Frederick Rickmann

Co-Founder and CEO, DNgroup Aps

Frederick Rickmann co-founded DN Aps, a distinguished international design firm with operational branches in both Denmark and Taiwan. DNgroup has broadened the boundaries of design by embracing Enterprise Design, a discipline that encompasses the development of new enterprises and businesses.

Rickmann belongs to a contemporary cohort of design visionaries capable of innovating across diverse fields. Whether tackling expansive urban projects in China or delving into the intricate details of industrial design, he demonstrates a remarkable aptitude for navigating shifts in scale, materials, processes, and temporal dimensions.

He frequently takes the stage as a speaker at universities and corporate design events, imparting his expertise to audiences across Scandinavia, Europe, and the Asia Pacific. Recognized for his exceptional strategic thinking, Rickmann is in high demand as a policy advisor, receiving regular invitations from a diverse array of international governmental bodies and private institutions, establishing him as a respected authority in the field.

Spain

Benjamin Calleja

CEO and Founder, Livit Design and Fast Fine Restaurant Group

Benjamin Calleja serves as the CEO of Livit Design, the founder of Fast Fine Restaurant Group and is also a Partner within the Passionality Group.

As the CEO of the world's largest restaurant design company, his primary focus revolves around enhancing brand performance through the design of guest experiences. He has a global presence, actively working in 40 countries across five continents, where a new restaurant is created approximately every 8 hours.

He is a recognized global authority in the field of hospitality design and technology, often sought after as a speaker at conferences, events, and masterclasses. Additionally, he holds prestigious memberships in organizations such as The American Institute of Architects and is a registered architect in multiple European countries including Germany, France, Italy, the United Kingdom, Spain, Luxembourg, and Sweden.

Germany

Ralph Christian Bremenkamp

Director of Innovation Strategy and Industrial Design, Fluid

With over 20 years of experience, Ralph Bremenkamp is a renowned product design specialist, known for developing innovative and award-winning design solutions for top global brands. His expertise spans medical design, consumer products and investment goods. Ralph excels in driving business success through innovation, both from previous leadership roles at international design consultancies as well as in-house teams.

Before joining FLUID, Ralph worked in key positions such as Principal Design Director at frog, Creative Director at BMW Designworks, and Director of Brand Experience for BEMER AG. He also ran his own award-winning design studio out of Munich, Germany for several years.

United States

Rituparna Simlai

Principal Architect and Landscape Architect, Studio Arth LLC

Rituparna Simlai is the accomplished individual who established Studio Art and serves as its principal architect.

Simlai gained additional experience and expertise at renowned design firms in Delhi, California, and Florida, contributing to geographically diverse projects that ranged from residential design to large-scale master planning and infrastructure ventures. Under her direction, the studio extended its focus from landscape design for high-end residences in Coconut Grove, North Miami, and New Delhi to conducting research and analysis for ecologically-restorative and socially-just projects in various countries, including Vietnam, China, Mozambique, and Timor-Leste.

Early in her career, she displayed an unwavering commitment to her craft, which yielded an impressive collection of design and service awards. Clients were not only appreciative of her work but also showered her firm with accolades. Within just two years of establishing Studio Art, her dedication and hard work resulted in a significant expansion of the studio's portfolio.

Indonesia

Erwin Hawawinata

Principal Architect and Interior Designer, Hawawinata & Associates

Erwin Hawawinata holds the role of lead architect and interior designer at Hawawinata N Associates, boasting a career spanning more than two decades in the architecture and interior design field.

Over the course of Hawawinata’s career, he has been extensively engaged in conceptualizing various accommodation projects. As part of his daily responsibilities, he is actively engaged in sketching architectural blueprints, meticulously selecting the materials essential for construction, and providing direct oversight throughout the architectural and interior design phases. This includes overseeing the placement of furnishings and the final touches that contribute to the overall aesthetics and functionality of the spaces.

His establishment of Hawawinata N Associates has paved the way for him to create a portfolio filled with exquisite residences, exclusive private offices, and captivating galleries, all catering to the discerning tastes of Indonesia's elite clientele. His impressive work garnered recognition and earned him multiple prestigious international awards.

United Kingdom

Mark Turner

Creative Director and Founder, Kre8ive Partners

Mark Turner, an industry veteran with a wealth of experience exceeding 30 years, holds the role of Founder and Creative Director at Kre8ive Partners.

As the leader of his creative team, Turner contributes an extensive wealth of experience in Art Direction, Typography, Point of Sale (POS) Design, Web Design, and Print. His established track record in the Graphic Design industry has had a pronounced influence, particularly within the retail and private sectors. His expertise in these domains has been instrumental in shaping the creative direction of his organisation.

With an ardent dedication to innovative and forward-thinking design, his passion for the field extends across all aspects of the creative process, but his deepest affection lies with packaging design, where he has consistently demonstrated a penchant for pushing the boundaries and crafting imaginative. This commitment to innovative design for packaging, has been the driving force behind Mark's contributions to the design industry.

India

Takbir Fatima

Director, DesignAware

Takbir Fatima is a renowned architect and educator, heading the innovative architecture and design studio DesignAware in Dubai and Hyderabad, along with the Fractals Workshop focusing on generative design and computation. Additionally, she initiated BuildAware, a project dedicated to fabrication and construction.

Recognized in the RIBA-published "100 Women: Architects in Practice," Fatima has also showcased her work at the inaugural India Art, Architecture & Design Biennale 2023 in Delhi.

With a MArch from the Design Research Lab at the AA School of Architecture, she boasts over a decade of experience in architecture. She maintains strong ties to the academic world, teaching at institutions such as the Boston Architectural College, CEPT University, DigitalFUTURES, and Meta Open Arts, previously known as the Facebook Analog Research Lab. Her dedication is reflected in her multifaceted roles as an architect, educator, and studio director, where she constantly pushes the boundaries of architectural design and education.

Netherlands

Misak Terzibasiyan

Founder and Principal Architect, UArchitects

Misak Tersibasiyan is the founder and principal architect of UArchitects (Urban Design and Architects).

UArchitects is a global firm that embraces a diverse team of various nationalities. The founder, having studied at the Eindhoven University of Technology in The Netherlands, gained experience with several international architectural firms prior to establishing the company in the culturally and architecturally renowned city of Eindhoven.

Terzibasiyan's professional and personal pursuits are deeply rooted in a global perspective and the exploration of cultural motifs, a focus influenced by his own ethnic heritage, having been born in Helsinki. He has established himself as an esteemed individual in his domain, with a career marked by an international outlook and a dedication to incorporating cultural diversity into his work. His recognition in the field is a testament to his commitment to embracing and understanding the interplay of different cultures in his professional endeavors.

South Korea

Joon Kwon

Chief Executive Officer and Co-founder, LR Seoul

Joon Kwon, CEO and Co-Founder of LR Seoul since 2021, began his career in 2008 at GREY GROUP, Korea, progressing through roles at Geometry Global and Havas, where he served as Executive Creative Director for 16 years.

Throughout his career, Kwon played a pivotal role in crafting advertising campaigns for global brands like BMW, Budweiser, Pepsi, and Heineken, earning numerous prestigious awards. Beyond advertising, he is a dedicated creator committed to societal impact, recognized with international design accolades under the the Social Impact category.

His career reflects not only business acumen but also a commitment to using creativity as a force for positive change.

Hong Kong SAR

Stephen Chow

Managing Director, CAN Design Limited

Stephen is the Managing Director of CAN as an award-winning architect with over 20 years of architectural experience in the Asia Pacific. Stephen is a registered Architect and Authorized Person in HKIA, he is also a guest lecturer at the University of Hong Kong and a studio lecturer at the Hong Kong Design Institute.

His diversified and awards-winning portfolio showcases his expertise in master planning, mixed-use, super highrise tower, retail, and urban regenerations scheme, etc. With an eye for quality and a superior sense of style, Stephen has been the chief designer on numerous iconic projects. As an open-minded, creative, and passionate architect, Stephen believes in the importance of a holistic design approach, and he also steps in the new trend research and absorbs new ideas from other industries.

Stephen’s design manifests humanity and sustainability in the urban fabric and he strives to open the design realm into infinite possibilities, transforming clients’ visions into sustainable designs that encompass life, work, and play in the built environment.

Israel

Ilana Seleznev

Owner, Inventor and Industrial Designer, Studio RDD

Illana Seleznev is the owner of Studio RDD, the inventor of the ‘Math of Design – Thinking Inside the Box’ methodology, and a well-known industrial designer.

Seleznev leads the creative direction and strategic vision in her award-winning design firm. With a focus on client collaboration, she guides a talented design team in delivering innovative solutions. Beyond creativity, she manages business aspects, ensuring efficient operations and adherence to budgets. She stays abreast of industry trends, fostering a dynamic work environment that prioritizes excellence. As both a visionary leader and hands-on contributor, she aims to create impactful designs that resonate with clients and users.

She specializes in crafting high-quality promotional smart gifts from a diverse range of materials, customized to meet individual budgets and needs. Renowned for excellence, the design firm creates premium promotional merchandise, ensuring a tailored approach to suit the distinct preferences and financial considerations of each client.

Malaysia

Jae Leong

Judging Committee Chairperson, International Awards Associate (IAA)

Jae Leong is the accomplished chairperson of IAA’s extensive judging committee.

As the chairperson, Leong assumes a leadership role, guiding the organization and spearheading initiatives to uphold quality and creative excellence in critical areas such as design, creative advertising, marketing communications, video production, and business. Additionally, she serves as a key award representative at IAA, consistently demonstrating success in overseeing assessments throughout her career.

She prioritizes the coordination of strategic arrangements among various jury panels, establishing herself as a standout figure in the industry. Demonstrating a keen sense of management, Leong has executed her role with precision, ensuring that each participant receives fair evaluations and unbiased assessments, underscoring the significance of integrity in maintaining the credibility of the judging outcomes. Furthermore, her collaboration with professionals globally has positioned her at the forefront of specialization, enabling the development of exceptional communication and relationship management skills.

China

Wang Zhike and Li Xiaoshui

Founders, TOPWAY SPACE DESIGN CO., LTD (FOSHAN)

Established in 2002 by Wang Zhike and Li Xiaoshui, FOSHAN TOPWAY DESIGN specializes in high-quality commercial spaces and luxury residences, providing comprehensive services that include project planning, architecture, interior design, landscaping, and furnishings.

Rooted in modernist design principles and a naturalistic approach, TOPWAY SPACE DESIGN CO., LTD (FOSHAN) crafts spaces that are relevant to contemporary needs while also exploring future spatial trends. The firm skillfully blends Eastern artistic elements with Western structural design, achieving a harmonious mix of functionality, human-centric design, and artistic expression to create spaces that are both unique and poetically resonant. They also place a strong emphasis on commercial viability and operational strategies in their designs, prioritizing the effective implementation and realization of their creative visions to enhance the commercial value for brands.

They exhibit an unwavering dedication to elevating the standards of architectural and interior design. Their passion is reflected in their commitment to merging aesthetic modernism with naturalistic principles,

Thailand

Somchana Kangwarnjit

Executive Creative Director, Prompt Design

Somchana Kangwarnjit holds an industrial design degree from King Mongkut's Institute of Technology Ladkrabang. In 2007, he established Prompt Design, assisting both local and international clients in developing their brands and businesses through innovative strategies and design solutions.

Kangwarnjit plays a pivotal role in steering the creative vision and strategy for the agency. He leads a team of talented designers and strategists, inspiring them to push the boundaries of innovation and design excellence. Under his guidance, Prompt Design has become a powerhouse for creative solutions, setting industry standards and achieving client objectives with ground-breaking design executions.The clientele of Prompt Design spans notable companies such as Nestlé, Pfizer, CP, Singha Corporation, Kimberly-Clark, L’Oréal, Yuasa, and BJC, among others.

Frequently, he is asked to join as a committee or jury member in design contests and contributes as a guest columnist and lecturer at leading publishers and universities.

China

Wu Wei

Founder and Creative Director, IN.X Design

As the founder and creative director of IN.X in Beijing, interior architect Wu Wei excels in designing spaces for Chinese cuisine. He is the go-to designer for several renowned restaurants in China, including Siji Minfu Roast Duck Restaurant and Hu Da Restaurant.

His role involves blending traditional aesthetics with modern design principles to create dining experiences that are both visually stunning and deeply rooted in Chinese culinary traditions. Under his guidance, IN.X has become synonymous with innovative and memorable designs that elevate the dining atmosphere in some of China's most celebrated restaurants.

His passion for interior architecture is evident in the way he harmoniously merges contemporary and traditional elements, creating spaces that are functional and tells a story. This commitment to excellence and his love for cultural storytelling through design have established him as a distinguished figure in the field of Chinese catering space design.

Italy

Paolo Cappello

CEO, Paolo Cappello Design Studio

Paolo Cappello completed his Industrial Design degree at the Politecnico di Milano. Following a three-year stint working alongside Ludovica+Roberto Palomba in Milan, he established his own studio in Verona in 2007. There, he works with a team of experts in architecture, communication, and graphics.

In his role as CEO of Paolo Capello's Design Studio, Capello is instrumental in guiding both the strategic vision and creative endeavors of the studio. His involvement extends to all facets of the studio's operations, ranging from the initial conception of distinctive design projects to managing their implementation. Capello's approach to leadership emphasizes a dedication to innovation, a pursuit of design excellence, and the cultivation of a team-oriented atmosphere that promotes both creative thinking and experimental approaches.

He contributes to Rolling Stone magazine by writing a design column for its online edition. Paolo's creations have garnered attention from major global publications, including the New York Times, Herald Tribune and more!

Taiwan

Peng Hsu Chen

Design Director, Aesthetice of space design Co., Ltd.

Peng Hsu Chen is the design director of Aesthetice of space design Co., Ltd.

As the Design Director at Aesthetics of Space Design Co., Ltd., an interior design studio, Chen plays a crucial role in shaping the aesthetic and conceptual direction of the company's projects. He oversees the creative process, ensuring that each design reflects both innovation and functionality, tailored to the unique needs of each space. Chen's expertise in blending contemporary trends with timeless design principles has significantly contributed to the studio's reputation for creating engaging and harmonious interiors. The team consistently delivers designs that not only meet but often exceed client expectations, reinforcing the studio's standing in the interior design industry.

Chen's commitment to the field of interior design is unwavering, demonstrated through his meticulous attention to detail and a deep understanding of spatial aesthetics. His tenacity is evident in his relentless pursuit of design excellence, constantly exploring to elevate each project.

Singapore

Ronn Lee

Creative Partner, BEAMY

Ronn Lee is a versatile brand and design expert with two decades of experience in the field, spearheading projects in concept development, branding, graphic design, interactive media, and product innovation across various sectors.

As the co-founder and creative lead of BEAMY, a creative and branding agency with its main office in Shanghai and additional locations in Singapore and New York, she has showcased remarkable initiative. Her journey took her from Singapore to Shanghai, where she was inspired by the growing demand for creative and branding services in China, leading to the establishment of BEAMY. Before her time in Shanghai, Ronn served as an Art Director in Tokyo. Her professional path through Singapore, Japan, and China has provided her with a deep understanding of diverse work cultures and design approaches.

Ronn's contributions to the field have been recognized with over 100 international awards for design and creativity.

United States

Hsiao-Han Chen

Senior Art Director, Motto

Hsiao-Han Chen is an award-winning Senior Art Director at Motto, a global strategic branding agency.

Chen possesses expertise in the realms of branding and packaging design. Her unique blend of practical, adaptable creativity pairs seamlessly with a strategic, methodical mindset. Her diverse educational background, encompassing product, packaging, and graphic design, combined with her extensive work experiences, has cultivated her into a multi-disciplinary professional with a comprehensive understanding of brand development across various industries.

In her role as a Senior Art Director, she has worked in collaboration with esteemed companies such as Google, Hershey's, GoodNotes, Reckitt Benckiser, Ninjas In Pyjamas, Noovie, and many more. Her diverse range of projects, recognized by international design awards and featured in prestigious publications, serves as a testament to her versatility as a creative individual. Her ability to excel in a multitude of projects across various industries highlights her adaptability and creativity.

United States

Shuang Guo

Fashion Design Director, Fame Fashion House

Shaly Guo is a distinguished designer based in New York, educated at the School of Art Institute of Chicago, known for her distinctively creative and visionary style. She holds the position of Design Director at Fame Fashion House, is a Co-founder of Varena de Bella, serves as an ETFashion Couture Enlightenment Instructor, and is in the midst of launching her personal brand.

Before venturing into her own fashion label, Shaly Guo, she gained valuable experience with globally acclaimed brands like Anna Sui, Marc Jacobs, Louis Vuitton, Club Monaco, among others. Guo's fascination with vintage toys allows her to blur the lines between the tangible world and fantastical realms.

Guo's designs are celebrated for her inventive edge and boldness, and have been featured in prestigious events such as New York Fashion Week, Austin Fashion Week, and Chicago Fashion Week, in addition to appearing in international fashion publications like Vogue, Sanction, Soleil, and others.

United States

Alice Li

Director, Cultural Strategy and Innovation, sparks and honey (Omnicom Group)

Alice Li is the Director of Cultural Strategy and Innovation at sparks & honey (Omnicom Group), a consultancy that uses tech-driven cultural intelligence to help organizations understand and stay ahead of global shifts.

Li is the trusted authority on future frameworks and spearheads the majority of future projects at sparks & honey. As a quantitative futurist with a proven track record in foresight and innovation strategy, Li has advised numerous Fortune 100 C-suite executives, aiding in their decision-making endeavors.

Beyond her role in management consulting, she holds a distinguished position as a judge for international design awards. Her goal is to provide the design community with a rich array of cultural perspectives, empowering the next generation to make informed, forward-thinking design decisions. This, in turn, prepares them to be responsible and thoughtful contributors to society, making impactful contributions to the world.

Japan

Daisuke Nagatomo

Founder, Director and Assistant Professor, MisoSoupDesign

Daisuke Nagatomo serves as the talented founder and director of MisoSoupDesign, and he is a Japanese designer and an assistant professor.

His educational background at Meiji University in Tokyo and subsequent architectural studies at Columbia University have equipped him with a strong and pronounced foundation in design principles and a global perspective, allowing him to infuse innovative and culturally informed elements into the projects undertaken by MisoSoupDesign. He participated as one of the invited researchers in the FabLab House project at IaaC in Barcelona from 2009 to 2010, earning a research diploma during his tenure.

In his various teaching positions at these diverse institutions, Nagatomo has played a pivotal role in shaping the educational experiences of students. Beyond imparting valuable design and architectural knowledge, he actively fosters an environment for cross-cultural exchanges and the sharing of innovative ideas among students from different backgrounds and perspectives.

Portugal

Tiago Russo

Chief Design Officer, The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.

Tiago Russo is the CDO at The Craft Irish Whiskey Co., a premium & luxury Irish spirits brand that aims to elevate and return to Ireland its former glory and reputation as home of the best whiskies in the world. Building an empire with a global mind-set and Irish heart. Over the last decade Russo has designed for some of the most respectable brands in the world. His impressive portfolio spans the luxury lifestyle domain from spirits to cosmetics, automotive to timepieces including: The Macallan, Dewar’s, The Dalmore, Craigellachie, Bacardi, Louis Vuitton, Patek Philippe, Coty Inc. and McLaren, to name a few. Russo has been obsessed with detailed design for much of his career and holds a Master’s degree in Product Design with Automotive Design specialization. With over a decade of experience implausibly dedicated to design, Russo is the ultimate perfectionist, always focused on making ideas a reality with a spirit of purpose, accuracy and finesse. Mastering the full design process from concept through to production, Russo is continuously immersing himself in culture and innovation to create pioneering, meaningful designs. Revelation Designer of the Year in 2014 and collecting several awards and accolades over the last decade, Russo has been labelled one of the greatest luxury spirits and packaging designers of today. His design work for The Craft Irish Whiskey Co.; ‘The Devil’s Keep’ is an ultra-rare whiskey and has, since its launch in December 2020, attained the world record title for the most expensive inaugural whiskey bottle ever sold, and the overall winner of the Luxury Packaging Awards and the A’ Design Awards, marking another set of achievements on Russo’s creations within luxury product design, joined by the more recent record-breaking and award winning creations The Brollach, The Emerald Isle, in collaboration with Fabergé, The Taoscán or The Aodh. Achieving over 70 design awards across his career so far, 2022 and 2023 have been marked as true highlights where Russo has achieved 2 Platinum A’Design awards, for The Emerald Isle collection and his newest whiskey creation, The Storyteller, joined by two Red Dot Design Awards for the groundbreaking achievements in designing the specialist whiskey glasses, The Érimón and The Finn.

United States

Yiying Tang

Architectural Designer, Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates (KPF)

Renowned in architectural circles, Yiying is a standout candidate for a judging role, backed by a robust background and a global perspective developed at Kohn Pedersen Fox Associates PC (KPF). Armed with a Master of Architecture from the University of Michigan and a Bachelor's from Zhejiang University, she combines academic prowess with real-world adaptability. As a LEED AP, BD+C, Yiying champions sustainability, aligning her design philosophy with environmentally responsible practices. Noteworthy industry recognition and features in international publications validate her innovative thinking. A diverse portfolio, spanning intricate installations to iconic skyscrapers, showcases her ability to transform visionary concepts into functional structures. Yiying's forward-thinking mindset, exploring architectural regionalism and AI integration, positions her to bring fresh perspectives to the judging role.

China

Jing Lv

Founder and Design director, Damai Interior Design, Damai Interior Design

Jing Lv, senior interior designer and architect, the founder and design director of Damai Interior Design. He graduated from the interior design major of Zhejiang Shuren University in 2002. Focusing on interior design for more than 22 years, he has led over a hundred large-scale and high-complexity design projects, and won the unanimous praise of the industry with professional ability and rigorous attitude. In Mr. Lv's opinion, design is an applied art with temperature. Therefore, his design works are not limited to a certain design style. While focusing on commercial value, he advocates for the continuation and enhancement of humanistic ideas. By accurately positioning the customer's target needs, incorporating more spiritual ideas into the space and achieving high-quality and efficient spatial solutions through artistic expression. In recent years, with outstanding works, he has achieved excellent results in domestic and international awards and has been invited to participate in the exhibition of interior design works in Macao, Korea and so on many times.

United States

Xiaobi Pan

Lead Designer, Amazon

Xiaobi (Iris) Pan is a globally-recognized pioneer in the field of Emerging Technology Design. She has been the inventor of the sound interactive Installation visited by over 1 million participants, the app that promises to plant 100 million trees on our planet by 2025, and a series of industry-leading new technology products and experiences. Currently a Lead Designer at Amazon, she is dedicated to using technologies such as Augmented Reality and Artificial Intelligence to revolutionize the consumer experience for both business and social good.

Bulgaria

Moein Jalali

Founder at Moein Jalali and Partners, Moein Jalali and Partners

Moein Jalali, a Ph.D. in architecture, focuses on the development of pure philosophical concepts in architecture. He served as a Professor of Architectural Design in both undergraduate and graduate degree programs at the university. Moein Jalali's Palemos Villa was nominated for best "Concept Design" in the "Middle East Award 2014." He integrates philosophy and architecture in all designs, particularly evident in Palemos. Moein Jalali also utilizes hypertext and hypotext, emphasizing the intertextuality process in his designs.

Russia

Ekaterina Elizarova

Owner, Elizarova Design Studio

Ekaterina Elizarova is an international designer, winner of the world's leading awards, including Red Dot, A'Design, Outstanding Property Award London and many others.

Ekaterina Elizarova is the first Russian product designer in the Metaverse.

In 2008, Ekaterina founded her own studio, which develops unique author's collections and interiors.

Ekaterina is the first designer in Russia invited to create collections of world-famous brands: Smania, Preciosa, Urban Fabric Rugs, Matlight Milano, Asko, Capital Collection, Junior Monarch and many others. The design by Ekaterina Elizarova is presented annually at exhibitions around the world from Italy and France to the USA and the UK. Designer of the Year (Elle Decoration Best of a Year Awards). Ekaterina has been awarded many prestigious international awards, including the Red Dot, A’ Design Award, the First All-Russian Award "For a special contribution to the development of design in Russia", the Eurasian Prize and others.

She works at the intersection of design and art. Ekaterina is the only representative of Russia selected by the Dutch Global Arts Affair Foundation to participate in the exhibition "Design Objects as Objects of Art", within the framework of the 57th Venice The Biennale.

United States

Jagdish Shankar Zagade

Systems Engineer, Raytheon tecnology

Jagdish Zagade, a distinguished Senior Systems Engineer, stands as a linchpin in his department, leading the test equipment/rigs group and spearheading innovation and capability enhancements in the lab test environment. Overseeing a team comprising Systems and Software Engineers, Jagdish efficiently manages work assignments and progress tracking for Engineer Technicians, fostering a collaborative atmosphere. His collaborative efforts facilitating a comprehensive understanding of project needs and enabling the development of technical designs. Jagdish's role encompasses providing precise bid inputs for contracts, underscoring the critical importance of accuracy in defining future work for Collins Aerospace. Notably, Jagdish introduces a visionary approach, emphasizing commonality and reusability in test rigs, aligning present endeavors with future benefits, showcasing forward-thinking leadership. Beyond his technical prowess, Jagdish is lauded for his role in ensuring first-time quality in the rigorous Avionics environment. His innovative solutions contribute to higher-quality outcomes and sustain a robust business relationship with Boeing. As a top-tier engineer, Jagdish's exceptional blend of technical acumen, leadership, and extensive experience earns him consistent recognition and elevated pay. His profound knowledge, adaptability, and collaborative leadership style make him a highly respected figure within the organization, reinforcing his position as a key leader in the field.

United States

Chun Liu

Project Architect, CO Architects

Chun Liu is a Project Designer at CO Architects in Los Angeles where she leads the design team on a variety of projects ranging from healthcare to k-12.

Over the past 15 years, she has contributed to various award-winning projects. Her journey in pursuit of enhancing human well-being through design and research took root in 2017 when she worked at Perkins & Will, Boston, where she embarked on the planning and design of healthcare projects. Understanding the unique nature of healthcare design and the impact of the built environment on our lives, she is dedicated to creating distinctive solutions that incorporate principles of humanity and sustainability into every facet of design.

Chun Liu earned her master's degree in architecture from Washington University in St. Louis with a Degree Project Award.

China

Zhou Yi

Founder/ Chief designer, Dayi Design

Zhou Yi , founder and chief designer of Dayi Design, graduated from Nanjing University and has been in the design industry for over a decade. She is now a member of the Architectural Society of China , a council member of the Wuxi Interior Design Association, and a visiting professor in the Department of Art at Jiangyin University.

Following her graduation, Zhou gained international work experience and pursued further studies abroad, which greatly broadened her perspective.Upon returning to China, she chose to develop her creative work in her hometown of Jiangyin, using the historical and geographically complex small city to explore the relationship between people and space. Her aim is to interpret and perpetuate the area's unique traditional culture from a modern standpoint, employing a rich visual language to captivate the younger generation.

Her unique female perspective and utilization of local design language have garnered widespread acclaim for her work. In a relatively short span of time, she has successfully completed numerous client projects, earning recognition for her independent thinking and surrealistic approach, establishing herself as a prominent designer in the region.

United States

Xianlong Deng

Architectural Designer, Adrian Smith + Gordon Gill

Xianlong Deng is a nationally recognized architectural designer with a solid educational background and abundant professional experience. He 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.

He has previously worked at internationally renowned architectural design firms such as Gensler, SOM, and Genesis AEC. At Gensler, he 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 he was involved in include the Kinzie & Morgan mixed-use development, Grand Rapids mixed-use development, Los Angeles Universal Studios Security System planning, and a confidential casino hotel design.

At Genesis, he contributed to laboratory and pharmaceutical factory projects, serving global pharmaceutical clients such as Merck, Pfizer, and Johnson & Johnson. Currently, at AS+GG, Xianlong is 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.