Interview
Min Jun Liao
Taiwan
Interior designer Min Jun Liao approaches each space as a dialogue between reason and emotion, using light and texture to shape human-centered environments. Her work, including The Vein of Light (光影石語), reveals how material and illumination can evoke both harmony and vitality.
1 Congratulations on winning in the TITAN Property Awards! Tell us more about your company, studio, or yourself.
I am Min Jun Liao, an interior designer, dedicated to creating integrated residential and commercial spaces. My design philosophy emphasizes the layering of light, the warmth of materials, and the rhythm of space—aiming to balance rational structure with emotional resonance. My studio upholds the belief that aesthetics, functionality, and human emotion should coexist in harmony, continuously exploring the interplay between light and life.
2 Could you walk us through the concept and unique features of your award-winning project?
The Vein of Light (光影石語) centers on the dialogue between stone and light. Through floating structures and layered illumination, the design evokes the vitality of veins within stone awakened by light. The main feature wall, composed of natural stone, becomes a sculptural focal point where subtle illumination reveals the hidden dynamism of material and form.
3 What do you believe makes this project stand out in the property industry?
This project stands out for transcending functionalism and infusing art into everyday living. The interplay of light and floating composition creates a space that is both emotionally expressive and physically comfortable, redefining how residential design contributes to aesthetic value in real estate.
4 What's the first thought that crossed your mind when you found out you had won in the award?
My first thought was of all the moments spent fine-tuning the balance between light and proportion. This award is not just a recognition of the project itself, but a validation of the dedication to detail and persistence behind it.
5 What's the inspiration or story behind your winning entry? Was there a meaningful moment during its creation that you would like to share?
The inspiration stems from the idea that “stone is the language of time, and light is its translator.” The most unforgettable moment was when the backlighting was first turned on—the light gently penetrated the stone texture, bringing the entire space to life and affirming the core spirit of the design.
6 What was the most surprising or unexpected element of your entry's journey from concept to completion?
The structural integration of the floating TV wall was more challenging than anticipated. We recalibrated the steel framework and electrical routing to achieve both safety and visual lightness—an unexpected yet rewarding technical achievement.
7 Designing properties often requires balancing art and science. How do you harmonize aesthetics with functionality in your work?
I approach design as a dialogue between logic and emotion. Every aspect—from circulation and lighting to storage—is conceived around human comfort, ensuring that functionality coexists with poetic expression.
8 What's the one challenge from this entry that you're most proud of overcoming?
Achieving the floating structure and continuous lighting effect within limited space is what I am most proud of. It represents not only design realization but also craftsmanship precision and teamwork excellence.
9 How do you think this recognition will impact your career or future projects?
This recognition reinforces my commitment to exploring the dialogue between light and material. It motivates me to further develop narrative-driven spaces and refine sensory experiences in future projects.
10 How do you think your entry contributes to the future of property design and development?
The Vein of Light demonstrates that a home is more than a dwelling—it’s an extension of emotion and art. I hope it inspires the industry to rethink the connection between architecture and human experience, bringing residential value back to its humanistic essence.
11 Sustainability is an important topic in today’s world. How do you integrate eco-conscious practices into your projects?
By selecting long-lasting materials, utilizing low-energy lighting, and optimizing natural light and ventilation, the project achieves energy efficiency in daily use—embodying the essence of sustainable design.
12 Are there any upcoming projects or ideas that you’re particularly excited about pursuing?
I am currently developing a new residential project themed around “the temporality of light.” It will explore how adjustable reflective surfaces and natural illumination shape the emotional perception of space—continuing my exploration of light narratives.
13 If you could give one piece of advice to aspiring designers or developers entering the field today, what would it be?
Believe in the power of detail. Design is not about form accumulation—it begins with genuine human needs and transforms through professionalism and passion into a language of warmth and meaning.
