Interviews with Monique Lee

I have a passion for beautiful things since childhood. My designs bring life, love, sense of freedom and passion for life. I keep enriching my knowledge for self-advancement. I wish everyone can feel my designs.

First and foremost, we need to gather information on environment, requirements, operation and things that may affect the design. We will then bring out the problems and seek solutions. This is the basis on which we create each design. Every design embodies my style. Inspiration may come from the nature or some people or anything.

Process of creating a new design is like day-dreaming. Indulging myself in personal imagination and isolated from external interferences. Based on my insight of the project nature and spontaneous inspiration, I create my designs. The most encouraging is to bring well-being to other people.

Design makes my life. I am just addicted to it. Curiosity is the driven force for new trials and continuous improvements. Passion could overcome all obstacles.

Do your best every day and be prepared for a challenging future. I wish to help the underprivileged through designs.

My designs bring life. I love to design anything related life. Learn from people and things around me makes me a better designer.

Passion to feel is indispensable. Success only comes after failures.

Live every moment with heart. Sincere with work, people, entertainment, etc.

Creativity is beyond limits. Trends influence you and designs in your distinct style set trends.

To feel every detail with my heart.

No design is perfect. Every design always has room for improvement though limited by time factor.

I love every project I made though perfection has yet to be achieved. I wish it comes true in the near future. I always look forward to new projects which are new chances for better designs.

Antoni Gaudi. Born and raised in Hong Kong. Strongly influenced by Hong Kong’s unique mixed East and West culture. Contemporary and yet traditional. A well-blended East and West design style

Hong Kong is home and everything to me. Its cosmopolitan and diverse ethnic cultures breed new concepts and ideas.

Work with heart and enthusiasm or advancement is not possible. We need colleagues, friends and family. Sharing the same vision and mutual trust drive improvement. Mutual respect and team work are indispensable.

We join charity projects to help the community with our designs. Meanwhile, we always share information related to designs to propagate eco-friendly interior design concepts through our columns in magazines.

A’ Design Award is a renowned and authoritative design competition. We learn and improve our skills through the whole process. It provides an ideal platform for designers from around the world to compete which impact positively on the design business. Undoubtedly, designers and companies whom are awarded with prizes gain reputation from joining the Award. I am truly honoured and excited to be Designer of the Day and motivate us to contribute to the community with our designs.

We focus on applying traditional architectural elements into modern design concepts. By doing so, it also presents the restaurant founder’s culinary philosophy of combining Chinese food ingredients with western chemistry.

We hope that through application of these classical Chinese architectural concepts into our designs, we could keep our cultural heritage alive.

It took us 2 weeks to develop and finish the whole design concept.

Our business partner presented us the restaurant’s unique culinary philosophy and we were amazed at the concept and took up responsibility of making interior design for their restaurant in China’s Capital – Beijing. Since the restaurant’s location is adjacent to the Forbidden City, we decided to make a design embodying essence of classical architecture.

Yes, the design has been completed and executed as the interior design of the restaurant.

We always aspire to give new life to classical design ideas and preserve spirit of vintage designs.

Things and happenings around us are sources of inspirations and ideas. Creative designs of other designers always drive us to improve and excel.

I personally think that each creatvie design attracts admirers from different sectors in the population. All of us always look for advancement and innovations in life.

I guess each designer has their own ways of perceiving beauty. What makes this design unique is that it presents our views about beauty and it also embodies spirit of the restaurant founder’s enthusiasm to infuse Chinese dining culture with new energy.

The name is from the cuisine founder. Mr. Howard Cai.

Our design tools are mainly Auto CAD, Adobe Illustrator, 3D Max, Photoshop, Microsoft windows and internet resources.

The design is unique in the sense that we try to preserve the disappearing ‘Shiheyuan’ design concept and let it be mentioned and seen in a new face in Beijing which is well-known as a city of cultural heritage.

In most cases, we collaborate with the fitting-out and engineering team to clear all kinds of obstacles, ensuring that the final product and dress-up are in good quality and user-friendly.

We use modern materials to withstand extreme weather conditions and big seasonal temperature changes and minimize maintainence work.

Yes, it is. We reviewed a lot of data about qualities of different construction materials and study historical archives about cosmology, ancient architectural forms and shapes.

Main challenges come from extreme weather conditions which delay progress of contruction works. Meanwhile, we re-constructed the sewage system in order to excute our design concept. It was a lenthy process and had important impact on construction cost.

It was a quick decision. We always want to improve and enhance quality of our designs. A’ Design Award is an open platform where designers from around the world can see our design and we get their comments on our design. It helps us understand where we are and we also learn from other outstanding designs.

We are inspired by the restaurant founder’s advanced culinary concept and see the zest for creative aesthetics in modern China.

Yes, one thing we would always bear in mind. We must respect the culture of any population. Provide spacial comfort and offer design solutions to enhance quality of living.

Making a good design is everything.

I chose to be a designer out of my passion for design.

My design brings life and I wish that I could create designs related to all aspects of life.

Keep enriching personal knowledge and strive for self-advancement.

Good designer does a good thing, Great designer makes things better.

Perception and attention and to details, sensitive to problems and offer solutions. Determined to learn and create designs helpful to life.

Designs change and improve life.

Create designs to improve more people’s life.

Create designs to improve life of the people in underdeveloped countries.

Learn from failures.

Everyone around me inspires me.

Every design has it’s personality. Always admires each design’s unique aspect.

I like every piece of my design while it always has room for improvement.

I keep learning and enrich my knowledge for self-enhancement.

Diving instructor or traveler

Design is infinite space

My family

Love, passion for life and freedom

Face setbacks and learn from failures.

They want everyone to feel their designs.

Strive to improve myself and challenge my limits.

Strive for perfection.

Create more and better designs.

They improve life and relationships among human beings.

I always feel excited with every design I make.

Those projects which posed challenges because they bring improvements to life.

More inventive concepts

Designs which we have no experience before.

It depends on scale of project.

Understanding project background, customer’s requirements, deadlines, planning execution schedules, etc.

Do everything with heart.

They interact with each other. Designs set trends while trends also affect designs.

Technology keeps making the impossible become possible.

Auto CAD, Photoshop, Illustrator.

Colour, materials and ambient work as a team.

Yes, I want them to feel my designs.

Admire, perceive it’s core concept and value.

Someone who inspires me, brings new design impacts.

“Human dimension & Interior Space”

Keep asking questions, brainstorming, think of problems and create solutions with team members.

Antonio Gaudi, Zaha Hadid, Tadao Ando

Prizes and Awards are forces for striving for advancements and breakthroughs.

Black, Blue & Purple are my favourite colours. Though it varies depending on emotions. I love Hong Kong, it’s my home. Favourite season is summer when we have lots of sunshine and spend time on beaches.

Get lost in daydreaming is the most inspiring

I love ‘Beauty’ since my childhood.

Evolution and advancement

Imagination and creativity are without limits

A group of young fellows who always ‘work hard play hard.

Design is balance / equilibrium between sense and sensibility.

New, challenging concepts

Interior Design itself

An office design

Things and happenings around us, new materials.

It comes anytime.

Balance between aesthetic beauty and functionality

Overwhelmed, elated, thrilled

Work hard play hard

Care and conservation, protecting the environment is responsibility of everyone. As a designer, we assume an important role to reduce waste from source.

Design is not only changing, improving, but evolving to a different attitude to life.

Last project, Next project

People, things and happenings around us

Based on preferred style of the end user to infuse unique elements to create a unique style

Hong Kong. No.

Sincerity and Passion

Mutual respect. Trust and feel their works and style

First, we need to understand the project nature, then, we decide the design style. Next, we proceed to conceptual design draft and 3D graphical presentation. When initial design idea is approved by our customer, we proceed to detailed visual and structural drawing. Finally, we proceed to actual execution of design.

Staircase, Kitchen, Cabinet, Garage, Doorplate, Dining Room

Everyday is full of imagination and fantasies.

Work Hard & Play Hard

No boundary for creativity and we could always think outside conventional framework. At the same time, we are always binded by traditions and existing framework.

Devotion and design with heart.

Ability to communicate with people and convey messages through visual design elements.

Things around our everyday life.

Think carefully before you act to avoid rework of design. A good work life balance.

It depends on scale of project.

If the finished design meet the genuine needs of the customer.

The whole working experience as a green, junior design until today as a leader of a design team.

Lai Sun Dining Limited, New World Property Management Co. Ltd.

Design without specific constrains and everything related to design.

Keep making breakthroughs in design concepts.

I always work with my design team.

info@mas-intdesign.com

The choice of a bright red color scheme was inspired by its association with vitality, passion, and creativity—qualities that resonate deeply with both contemporary art and culinary excellence. This vibrant hue not only stimulates the senses but also creates a romantic atmosphere that complements the dining experience. By juxtaposing red with softer tones, we emphasize the interplay between boldness and elegance, aligning with our mission to merge modern European cuisine with artistic expression.

In designing the VIP lounge, we prioritized creating a cozy atmosphere while ensuring privacy. The use of dim lighting sets an intimate tone, while the curtain screen made of metal beads allows for separation without completely closing off the space. This design choice maintains an artistic ambiance, as the curtain itself is a work of art that reflects light and creates shadows, enhancing the overall sensory experience while still providing guests with a sense of seclusion.

The wavy white stone wall posed several technical challenges, particularly in achieving the desired aesthetic while ensuring durability. The crystal surface hardening treatment was essential to protect the intricate design from wear and tear. We collaborated closely with artisans to ensure that the treatment did not compromise the visual appeal. This process involved careful selection of materials and techniques that enhanced the wall's texture while providing long-lasting resilience.

The ripple metal sculpture, titled "Water Drops," is designed to evoke a sense of movement and fluidity that resonates throughout the restaurant. Its placement above the streamlined L-shaped tables draws the eye upward, creating a dynamic visual flow that encourages guests to explore the space. This piece not only serves as a dramatic focal point but also enhances the overall ambiance by reflecting light and creating a sense of rhythm that mirrors the culinary experience.

Incorporating the hotel's philosophy of "Luxury of Art and Art of Luxury" involved a careful curation of art pieces and design elements that resonate with the hotel's overall aesthetic. We selected artworks and materials that reflect contemporary European influences while maintaining a distinct identity for the restaurant. This balance allows George's Restaurant to stand out as a unique dining destination while still aligning with the luxurious and artistic ethos of Hotel Éclat Beijing.

In designing George's Restaurant, we carefully considered the flow of the space, particularly with the morning buffet service in mind. The buffet counter is strategically located at the back of the restaurant, with an island in the middle of the buffet area that allows guests to access the offerings from multiple directions, enhancing convenience and minimizing congestion. This layout also ensures that the buffet counter is in close proximity to the kitchen for efficient service. The front area, near the entrance and along the window side, features a comfortable seating area separated from the buffet by low glass partitions. This design provides guests with a sense of privacy while maintaining visual connectivity throughout the restaurant, creating an open and inviting atmosphere that enhances the overall dining experience.

The design of George's Restaurant reflects Parkview Green's commitment to sustainability through the use of eco-friendly materials and energy-efficient lighting. We aimed to create a space that not only minimizes environmental impact but also promotes a lifestyle that values art and culture. By integrating natural elements and ensuring that our design choices align with sustainable practices, we push the boundaries of contemporary living by demonstrating that luxury and sustainability can coexist harmoniously.

The tinted glass screens at the entrance serve as a captivating threshold that gently transitions guests from the outside world into the artistic ambiance of George's Restaurant. As guests approach, the tinted glass creates a sense of curiosity and anticipation, allowing glimpses of the vibrant interior while maintaining an element of privacy. This design choice not only enhances the visual appeal but also sets the tone for the dining experience, inviting guests to immerse themselves in a space where art and cuisine intertwine. The screens effectively frame the entrance, guiding guests into the restaurant and signaling that they are entering a unique environment that celebrates both culinary and artistic excellence.

The recognition of George's Restaurant at the Iron A' Design Award highlights the potential for restaurants to serve as immersive art experiences rather than just dining establishments. I envision this project inspiring future designs to prioritize artistic expression and sensory engagement, encouraging designers to think beyond conventional layouts and aesthetics. By integrating art into the dining experience, future projects can create spaces that evoke emotions and foster connections among guests. This approach not only elevates the culinary experience but also positions restaurants as cultural hubs where art and gastronomy coexist, ultimately enriching the overall dining landscape.

The contemporary interpretation was inspired by a desire to innovate while respecting tradition. The metallic bamboo screens symbolize resilience and modernity, reflecting the dynamic nature of contemporary design. The artful ceiling designs add a layer of artistic expression, creating a striking visual contrast that elevates the dining atmosphere. This approach aims to bridge the gap between classical aesthetics and modern sensibilities, offering a fresh perspective on Japanese design.

The 375 square meter space led us to use corridors and glass screens instead of solid walls, enhancing visibility and flow. This design choice fosters an open atmosphere, allwoing natural light to permeate and creating a sense of spaciousness.

The reflective rippled mirror-polished steel ceiling was conceived as a way to enhance light reflection and visual interest. This innovative design not only adds a unique aesthetic but also helps in creating an illusion of height and space.

The Atrium, Mystery of Nature, and Periphery sections are designed to offer distinct experiences while maintaining a cohesive narrative. Each are transitions smoothly, guiding diners through a journey that reflects different aspects of Japanese culture.

By integrating Robatayaki and Teppanyaki open kitchens, we draw on traditional Japanese house designs to encourage social interaction. This layout invites diners to engage with chefs, fostering a communal dining experience.

The environmental consciousness at Ito Japanese Restaurant is reflected in multiple sustainable design choices. In addition to engineered wood flooring and energy-efficient LED lighting, we have implemented an MVAC system with sensors to optimize engergy use. We utilize two types of curtains: sheer curtains in the summer to allow natural light while maintaining airflow, and thicker fabric curtains for winter to enhance insulation. Bamboo, a sustainable material, is also incorporated into the design. Furthemore, all wallpapers and paints used are eco-friendly, ensuring a commitment to sustainability throughtout the restaurant. These elements collectively demonstrate our dedication to conservation and creating an environmentally responsible dining experience.

The dynamic water current images and bamboo trees at the entrance of Ito Japanese Restaurant create an inviting and serene atmosphere that captivates guests from the moment they arrive. This striking design sets a tranquil tone and evokes a sense of hope and discovery, suggesting that beyond the initial darkness, there is a beautiful and welcoming space waiting to be uncovered. This entrance perpares gusets for a unique dining experience that embodies the essence of Japanese aesthetics, encouraging them to immerse themselves in a journey of culinary delight and cultural appreciation.

In designing Ito within Parkview Green, we achieved a balance between authentic Japanese elements and contemporary creativity by thoughtfully selecting key features and concepts from traditional design rahter than simply copying them. By integrating these elements with innovative ideas in layout and functionality, we created a unique space that harmoniusly blends the essence of Japanese aesthetics with modern design, resulting in a fresh and dynamic dining experience.

The earthy-toned private dining rooms, each designed with a unique concept and matching wallpapaer, enhance both intimacy and privacy for guests. Eash wallpaper features a distinct color and 3D texture that aligns with the overall design scheme, contributing to a warm and inviting atmosphere. While some walls showcase layered wood cubes at varying levels, other feature illuminated laminated glass, creating visual interest without overwhelming the space. This thoughtful approach ensures that not every wall has a prominent feature, maintaining a blaanced and harmonious environment throughout the restaurant.

The inspiration to incorporate the marble stone patterns from Senado Square's flagstone streets stemmed from a desire to connect the restaurant to Macau's vibrant streetscape. I adapted these patterns by simplifying their complexity and using modern materials, ensuring they fit seamlessly into the bar area while maintaining a nod to historical significance.

Integrating ventilation systems whithin the pillar inspired by Macau Tower presented technical challenges, particularly in maintaining airflow without compromising aesthetics. We worked closely with engineers to design a concealed system that blends into the pillar's structure, ensuring it remains visully striking and functional.

Achieving a balance between modern metallic elements and traditional Portuguese tiles involved careful material seleciton and placement. I used metallic accents as framing elements that highlight the tiles, ensuring they complement rather than compete with each other, creating a cohesive visual narrative throughout the space.

In reimagining stained glass patterns for Soda Port Restaurant, I focused on modern interpretations that evoke the essence of classical church windows while using vibrant colors and abstract designs. This creative process involved sketching concepts that would enhance the dining atmosphere while paying homage to the traditional art form.

Creating an intimate dining atmosphere in the private corner while showcasing the Ruinas de Sao Paulo involved strategic spatial planning. I used soft lighting and acoustic materials t create warmth, allowing the grand achitectural reference to serve as a backdrop without overwhelming the intimacy of the dining experience.

Prioritizing an interactive layout that fosters communication between chefs and diners was guided by the the belief that dining is a communal experience. I designed open spaces that encourage engagement, allowing diners to witness the culinary process, which enhances their connection to the food and the overall dining experience.

In creating Soda Port Restaurant's 594-square-meter space, we addressed the acoustic challenges of combining an open kitchen with comfortable dining areas by incorporating a variety of sound-absorbing materials and strategic spatial planning. We used acoustic panels on the walls and ceiling to reduce noise levels while allowing for an open kitchen layout that enhances the dining experience. Additionally, we designed the dining areas with varying ceiling heights and used soft furnishings to create a more intimate atmosphere. The layout was carefully planned to ensure that the folw of sound from the kitchen did not disrupt the dining experienced, allowing gusetsto enjoy their meals in a comfortable and inviting environment.

The aluminum ceilling design in Soda Port Restaurant was achieved through a meticulous process that balanced technical functionality with aesthetic appeal. We collaborated closely with engineers and desighers to integrate complex systems such as lighting, MVAC, and sound insulation wihtin the ceiling structure. The design involved creating custom aluminum panels that not only served as an architectural feature but also accommodated these technical systems seamlessly. The aesthetic patterns were inspired by local cultural motifs, which were incorporated into the panel design to create a cohesive visual narrative. The result is a ceilling that is both visually striking and functionally efficient, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Looking at Soda Port Restaurant's success in celebrating Macau's cultural heritage, I envision this design influencing future restaurant projects by emphasizing the importance of cultural storytelling through interior spaces. Our designers will increasingly focus on creating environments that reflect local traditions, history, and artistry, allwing guests to connect with the culture on a deeper level. This could involve using locally sourced materials, incorporating traditonal craftsmanship, and designing spaces that evoke a sense of place. By prioritizing cultual narratives in restarant design, future projects can create unique dining experiences that resonate with both locals and visitors, fostering a greater appreciation for the rich heritage of the area.

The entrance design was inspired by the concept of creating an inviting yet intriguing threshold that reflects the vibrant cultural tapestry of Shanghai, where East meets West. The contrasting materials, such as the wooden relief wall reminiscent of traditional Chinese architecture and the modern glass and steel mesh screen, create a captivating visual dialogue that draws guests into the restaurant. This bold approach not only emphasizes the restaurant's unique identity but also sets an energetic tone for the dining experience. As guests transition through this visually dynamic entrance, they are immediately immersed in a harmonious blend of traditional Chinese aesthetics and contemporary Western influences, preparing them for an exciting culinary journey that celebrates both heritage and modernity.

Our approach to modernizing the Hui pattern involved a careful balance between innovation and reverence for tradition. By incorporating energy-efficient LED light tubes into the design, we not only maintained the pattern's cultural significance but also embraced an eco-friendly approach. This choice enhances the visual appeal while inviting a new audience to appreciate traditional motifs in a contemporary context. The result is a design that honors its roots and engages with today's aesthetic sensibilities, all while promoting sustainability in our design practices.

We chose water jet cutting technology for its precision and ability to realize intricate designs that are characteristic of traditional Chinese patterns. Our desire to incorporate these traditional motifs into the flooring required custom-made solutions, and water jet cutting allowed us to achieve this seamlessly with marble, which aligns perfectly with our overall concept of blending East and West, particularly in the vibrant context of Shanghai. This method not only enhances the restaurant's aesthetic by integrating elaborate designs but also pays homage to traditional craftsmanship. Additionally, the durability and high-quality finish provided by this technology ensure that the flooring remains both beautiful and functional, complementing the upscale ambiance of Xin Ming Yuen.

The "time travel" concept at Xin Ming Yuen is designed to transport guests back to the charm of old Shanghai. This is particularly evident in the main entrance, where we feature a wall made of traditional Chinese house bricks, complemented by bright yellow moldings that reflect Western design elements, along with modern mirror partitions. In the reception area, we utilized a distinctive Chinese green with a high gloss finish for the traditional-style reception desk, enhancing the cultural ambiance. The ceiling design incorporates a Chinese grid pattern at varying levels, crafted from modern materials, further blending the old with the new. Throughout the restaurant, every element is a mix and match of Western and Chinese influences, with some features deeply rooted in traditional Chinese style. This thoughtful combination creates a narrative that enriches the overall dining experience, allowing guests to appreciate the harmonious coexistence of history and modernity.

The Bai Zi cabinets and embossed stained glass screens were chosen for their historical significance and aesthetic appeal. The Bai Zi cabinet, inspired by the legendary doctor Hua Tuo from the Three Kingdoms period, features over 400 drawers designed to mimic his traditional medicine bags. This cabinet symbolizes generations of Chinese medicinal knowledge and represents the importance of fresh ingredients in our cuisine. Their thoughtful arrangement throughout the restaurant creates focal points that invite guests to engage with the rich cultural narrative, enhancing their dining experience and connection to Chinese traditions.

The transition from a glass ceiling to treated steel plates, while initially a regulatory challenge, ultimately enhanced the overall design aesthetic by introducing a unique texture and depth to the space. The steel plates, with their intricate corrosion patterns, add a modern industrial touch that contrasts beautifully with the restaurant's traditional elements. This creative solution not only complies with regulations but also contributes to a cohesive visual narrative, reinforcing the fusion of modernity and tradition throughout the restaurant.

In designing the bar area, our key considerations included creating a vibrant atmosphere while ensuring a sense of relaxation. We incorporated lively patterns and colors, such as the auspicious ‘回’ pattern illuminated by LED light tubes, to energize the space. At the same time, we maintained harmony through the use of balanced textures and materials that resonate with the overall design theme of the restaurant. This thoughtful approach allows the bar area to serve as a lively gathering spot while still feeling integrated into the tranquil dining experience.

The design of Xin Ming Yuen pays tribute to the golden decades of modern China by incorporating elements that evoke the nostalgia of the 1950s and 1960s, such as the use of traditional materials and motifs like the Bai Zi cabinets and the Hui pattern. These elements reflect the craftsmanship and cultural richness of that era. However, we adapted these features using modern techniques and materials, such as treated steel and LED lighting, ensuring that they resonate with contemporary diners. This fusion creates a space that honors the past while providing a fresh and relevant experience for today’s clientele.

The success of Xin Ming Yuen serves as a blueprint for future restaurant designs that seek to bridge cultural heritage with modern aesthetics. By demonstrating that traditional elements can be reinterpreted through contemporary design practices, we hope to inspire other designers to explore their cultural narratives in innovative ways. This project highlights the importance of storytelling through design, encouraging a dialogue between the past and present. As more designers embrace this approach, we can expect to see a growing trend in creating spaces that not only celebrate cultural heritage but also resonate with the evolving preferences of modern diners.