In 2023, the interior design industry still struggles with a glaring lack of AAPI representation. Not only does this create a needless struggle for designers from AAPI heritage, but it also hinders the interior industry's potential for growth and innovation.
The contributions of AAPI talent to the interior design industry deserve to be celebrated every month, but in honour of this AAPI Heritage Month, we're spotlighting the designers who inspire us and continue to push the boundaries of interior design.
Alicia Cheung
Based in: San Francisco, California
Known for: elevated designs with an edge
Alicia Cheung is the co-founder of Studio Heimat, an interior design firm that tells stories through beautifully designed spaces. Her work is a regular feature in reputable trade publications including Elle Decor and Domino.
As a design studio founded by international and minority women, Alicia and her team are advocates for bringing diverse voices to the industry. Alicia's design work seamlessly blends new trends with cultural traditions whilst her studio supports 12 non-profit social justice organisations.
View Alicia Cheung's portfolio.
Jason Lai
Based in: Santa Monica, California
Known for: beautiful yet functional spaces
Jason Lai is the owner and principal designer of JL Interiors, specialising in the design of luxury residential interiors in Los Angles. Jason is an avid traveller, the influence of which can be seen in his spirited and unconventional approach to luxury design. His work has been featured in both print (Elle Decor, Los Angeles Times) and on-screen (Million Dollar Listing LA, Open House).
View Jason Lai's portfolio.
Catherine Kwong
Based in: San Francisco, California
Known for: high-end projects with effortless elegance
A former New York Gal, Catherine Kwong moved to San Francisco in 2008 to pursue her interior design dream. Catherine worked under the guidance of design icons such as Ralph Lauren and Bill Sofield before establishing her namesake interior design firm in 2011.
In 2015 Architectural Digest named Catherine "Designer to watch" and she has lived up to the title, crafting beautiful interiors for both residential and commercial use all over the world.
View Catherine Kwong's portfolio.
Jean Liu
Based in: Dallas, Texas
Known for: playful yet elegant designs
Jean Liu is the founder and principal of Jean Liu Design, specialising in the design of high-end residential and commercial projects. Her diverse portfolio has graced the pages of The Wall Street Journal, Architectural Digest, and House Beautiful. Jean is a disciplined designer with a rebellious personality, which translates into her innovative yet beautifully executed designs.
View Jean Liu's portfolio.
Dara Huang
Based in: London, United Kingdom
Known for: innovative and sustainable designs
Dara Huang is an American-born architect, designer, and entrepreneur. Raised by Taiwanese parents in a culturally diverse community, Dara credits her unique perspective as a person and as a designer to her multicultural upbringing.
Dara opened her design firm, Design Haus Liberty, in London in 2013 and was soon receiving praise for her work across luxury hotels, restaurants, retail spaces, and private residences. Her numerous accolades include Property Week's 40 under 50, BBC China's 100 Women and her starring role as a judge on Channel 4's Britain's Most Expensive Houses.
View Dara Huang's portfolio.
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