Interview with Wei Dou from the United States

I became a creative because I see design as a bridge between imagination and reality, where ideas can transform into something tangible that impacts lives. Through thoughtful, innovative design, we can address real-world challenges, improve communities, and foster connections between people and their environments.

My passion lies in harnessing the potential of design to make a lasting impact, shaping spaces that not only meet functional needs but also inspire and uplift those who interact with them.

I work at SWA Group, where I focus on projects ranging from parks to urban developments, creating sustainable, community-enhancing spaces. SWA is a renowned firm known for its innovative landscape architecture, shaping iconic projects worldwide that blend environmental stewardship with cutting-edge design, transforming public spaces into thriving, dynamic environments.

To me, creativity means being experimental yet grounded. It's about pushing boundaries and exploring new ideas while staying rooted in practicality and purpose.

A creative design is like "dancing in shackles"—it thrives within constraints yet finds ways to innovate. To me, a design becomes truly creative when it serves a purpose, particularly in building a better world and helping people through thoughtful, impactful solutions.

But don't get me wrong, I also love letting my subconscious drive the process, allowing for spontaneous and unfiltered creativity.

As a landscape designer, my creative process begins with a thorough analysis of site conditions, including environmental factors, existing ecosystems, and community needs. I dive deep into understanding the unique context of each project, which informs my design decisions.

From there, I blend creativity with practicality, developing concepts that are both innovative and functional. I also prioritize collaboration, working closely with multidisciplinary teams to refine and elevate the design. Ultimately, my goal is to create spaces that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also sustainable and impactful, enhancing the well-being of both people and the environment.

My favorite part of the creative process is hearing feedback from the community. It's incredibly rewarding to see how people connect with the spaces I design and to understand how those designs impact their lives. Community feedback offers valuable insights and often inspires new ideas, making the process more collaborative and enriching.

My creative style is tangible and people-focused. I design with the intention of creating spaces that are not only visually appealing but also functional and accessible. My work emphasizes practicality and connection, ensuring that each design serves the needs of the community while enhancing their everyday experiences.

Yes, Chinese culture has significantly influenced my creative process. The concept of "design with nature" is deeply rooted in Chinese cultural heritage, emphasizing harmony between human-made environments and the natural world.

This philosophy shapes my sustainable approach to landscape design, where I strive to create spaces that are in balance with their surroundings, respecting and enhancing the natural landscape.

Winning the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards is such an honor for me. It provides a unique opportunity to share my experimental ideas and designs with a broader audience, sparking conversations and inspiring others in the field.

The winning work I entered into the 2024 MUSE Creative Awards is a green infrastructure project focused on utilizing existing mass transportation facilities to promote clean energy and community justice. The design framework is infused with landscape urbanism principles, with a specific focus on creating open spaces in neighborhoods, supporting underserved groups, and activating quiet spaces.

I chose to enter this project because it represents a holistic approach to sustainable urban design, where every element is thoughtfully integrated to benefit both the environment and the community. This project reflects my commitment to using design as a tool for positive social and environmental impact.

The biggest challenge with this project was finding the middle ground between transforming snow into an energy resource and creating spaces for community activities. After thoroughly reviewing the site analysis, we decided to utilize existing mass transportation facilities, which proved to be both cost and space efficient.

This approach allowed us to turn snow from a seasonal annoyance into a fun and functional element, while also supporting clean energy initiatives and community engagement.

Winning this award has significantly boosted my confidence and pride in my work, fueling my motivation to generate more innovative ideas and push the boundaries of our practice. It has validated our approach and inspired me to continue exploring new concepts, ultimately enhancing both my career and our collective practice.

My top three favorite things about our industry are its boundless creativity, the spirit of collaboration, and the rich diversity it embraces. The limitless possibilities for innovation keep the work exciting, while the collaborative nature of the field fosters teamwork and shared success. The industry's diversity of ideas, perspectives, and backgrounds continually inspires and enriches the design process.

China is unique in the creative industry due to its rich cultural heritage, rapid technological advancements, and growing influence in global design and media.

It will see seamless integration of digital and physical experiences, increased inclusiveness and representation, and a focus on community-driven innovation. These trends will foster greater collaboration, diversity, and immersive content, shaping a more connected and participatory creative landscape.

Always consider how your design can positively impact and inspire others. Focus on creating work that fosters connection and reflects kindness. Your creativity has the power to resonate deeply and make a meaningful difference in people’s lives. Care about others and the environment we live in, because we are all connected in some ways!

Honestly, there's so much good information everyday. Consistent, small doses of inspiration foster growth and innovation. In an era rich with information and resources, it's crucial to remember that design should aim to positively impact others. Prioritize meaningful contributions and ensure your work aligns with values of kindness and societal benefit.

The lessons I’ve learned from the people I design for are truly remarkable and have always humbled me. Promoting sustainable design and environmental justice resonates deeply when I receive feedback from local communities.

Their comments often reveal aspects I hadn’t considered or thought were important. Hearing their experiences, backgrounds, and concerns makes the narrative vivid and impactful, challenging my assumptions as a designer. I’ve realized that no design is “too straightforward or too simple.” A simple design can be powerful; what matters most is addressing the needs of the people, not just showcasing elaborate concepts.

I’m inspired by those who live their lives with energy, exhibiting resilience and bravery in the face of uncertainty. The strength and determination of people around me motivate me to embrace my own resilience and push through difficult times. Their courage constantly reminds me of what’s possible when we persevere.

My key to success is perseverance. I always remind myself why I started and who I design for. Taking consistent steps toward my goals, never losing hope, and staying committed to my vision are essential. Embracing every opportunity for growth and letting my purpose guide me through challenges is crucial.