Life & Work with Christine Xiang

Today we’d like to introduce you to Christine Xiang.

Hi Christine, so excited to have you on the platform. So, before we get into questions about your work life, maybe you can bring our readers up to speed on your story and how you got to where you are today. 
Born and raised in Hangzhou, trained in product design, and acclimated to Western values in Los Angeles, I have worked hard to cull the best of both cultures. My journey commenced with an undergraduate class at the Art Center College of Design in Pasadena, where I crafted a bench prototype showcased at the ICFF Studio Show in New York. This experience fueled my passion for design innovation, leading to awards and industrial design internships. 

In China, I witnessed the burgeoning “New Chinese Design” movement, blending modern techniques with traditional aesthetics. Inspired by this, I incorporated social, ethical, and sustainability considerations into my designs. Recognizing the need for business acumen, I pursued further education in the master’s program at Babson F.W. Olin Graduate School of Business. 

Alright, so let’s dig a little deeper into the story – has it been an easy path overall, and if not, what were the challenges you’ve had to overcome?
Balancing project workload with personal life has been a significant challenge. With work consistently taking top priority, finding time to refresh and recharge mentally has been limited. Eventually, I recognized the importance of self-care and began incorporating weight training at the gym as a means of distraction and relaxation. 

Thanks for sharing that. So, maybe next you can tell us a bit more about your work?
As a product designer, my passion for industrial design solutions and innovation is fueled by my innate drive to define, analyze, and solve problems. I approach design holistically, creating a comprehensive design system that encompasses products, packaging, branding, apps, and even retail environments. While functionality is paramount, I believe the true success of a design lies in its ability to emotionally resonate with the user. By carefully considering material choice, color, trends, and cultural preferences, I strive to craft cohesive experiences that seamlessly connect the brand with the user. 

Contact Info:

• Website: https://www.christinexiang.com/

Image Credits
Yugong Luo
James Chou