On a personal note, where in the world am I today? I’m in Hong Kong at the end of my trip and starting the long flight home while I’m thinking about the importance of global perspective in design.
So think it fitting to offer a little report on design in China. The International Federation of Interior Architects/Designers (IFI) invited ASID (American Society of Interior Designers) to Guangzhou, China for the city’s Design Week this past December. There are many lessons we can learn from China. With its cities challenged with overcrowding, high pollution and the loss of cultural history to modernism, China is turning to design as a solution to address these issues.
Design plays a critical role in China’s economic development and government and business leaders are deeply involved in the country’s design industry. Foreigners not only have to gain the requisite permits to conduct business in China, they also need to partner with a local design agency to oversee the project and help coordinate the permitting process. With time, we are seeing the value of relationships in businesses increase in the U.S. as well.
Perhaps the most important lesson learned is the importance of a global perspective. As we live in an increasingly more connected world, a well-rounded view of the world is the currency that holds together our work and relationships. Recognizing the importance of this, ASID signed an agreement to partner with IFI on a series of Cultural Innovation Design Dialogues that will take place across three U.S. cities this year. ASID will also partner with IFI on World Interiors Day in May to officially recognize the impact of design in our cities and communities. As a small company, making big strides, Casart Coverings does realize this importance of global design.
– Lorre Lei
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