Talent Spotlight: Yanan Chelsea Li
International Women's Day 2024
Name: Yanan Chelsea Li
Role: Associate | Design Lead, Interior Design
Studio: Shanghai
Do you think women are treated equally in competing for leadership positions in the industry?
The industry has definitely improved a lot, especially as more and more women-owned businesses open and thrive. Overall, I think more women in leadership positions in the business world can significantly impact society overall. It helps in breaking stereotypes and creating role models for future generations. The reality is we need more women in leadership positions. It’s not just good for women—it helps further gender equality overall.
What makes a successful team?
Communication. It’s very important both in the work environment and on a personal level. It helps us better understand the teammates and situations, overcome adversity build trust and respect, and create conditions for sharing creative ideas and solving problems. Effective communication also can help resolve or avoid problems and conflicts. It helps us connect with others and share ideas, reducing wasted time. In general, it helps to build a smoother and more pleasant working place.
What is your favourite part of working at B+H?
I think my favorite part is when we work as a team on bidding for projects, every team member shows their strengths, helps one another, and when one of us happen to struggle, the management will always jump in to help. Another thing is when we finally achieve design approval, and of course, when it’s built, we finally get to see the outcome. This brings a massive sense of accomplishment.
“Overall, I think more women in leadership positions in the business world can significantly impact society overall. It helps in breaking stereotypes and creating role models for future generations.”
What is something a well-designed building/space can’t exist without?
Wellness. I believe in all sorts of architectural spaces, having the right amenities can go a long way in supporting the mental, physical and social health of people. In workplace design, prioritizing employee wellness creates a positive workplace culture and reinforces employee satisfaction and loyalty. By creating a healthy work environment, it helps maximize the company’s potential.
How would you describe your approach to design?
Often my approach is based on the situation. I try to be as pragmatic as I can be. For example, user interviews, surveys, competitor analysis, brainstorming sessions, and other methods are all useful for generating a wide range of concepts. Overall, it’s based on Research, Define, Ideate, Prototype, and Test-fit.
Who are some women in interior design you admire or are inspired by?
In the modern architecture world, I really appreciate and admire Zaha Hadid’s talent. I worked on the interior design of one of her buildings, and the strong concept of her work was absolutely impressive. She was an architect known for her approach to radical deconstructivism and the first woman to be awarded the Pritzker Architecture Prize.