Name: Bin Cao
Company: RTKL International
Position within company: Vice President
Website: www.rtkl.com
. Tell us a little about your background in design
I have over 22 years of experience as a project designer on hospitality, retail, mixed-use, residential buildings in the United States and abroad including in China and the Middle East. I received the M. Arch degree from Southeast University in 1989 and a M. Arch in Urban Design from University of Oklahoma in 1994.
. How would you describe your personal design style?
I bring to client projects a meticulous eye for detail within the larger framework of the design intention and development strategy. I’d like to create meaningful visual forms and spatial experiences with poetic architectural language.
. Where does your design inspiration come from?
My design inspirations are always from the site context, the local history and cultural roots.
. In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?
Design is getting closer to the new technology and the new changing lifestyle.
. Name five key themes to consider when approaching design.
New Tech, New materials, Green concepts, Adaptable, Authentic.
. If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design, what would it be?
Authentic experience is the ultimate goal.
. How important are The International Hotel and Property Awards as recognition of talent and achievement?
It’s a landmark award for the industry.
. What projects are you currently working on?
Quanzhou InterContinental Hotel, Quanzhou Hilton Hotel, Wanning Grand Hyatt Resort, Shenzhen Renaissance Hotel
. What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?
Win more hotel design awards.
. Final thoughts; tell us a little more about yourself
Your most treasured possession?
Some hand made tea pot sets
Your favourite holiday destination?
Italy
Your favourite hotel / restaurant / bar?
Guangzhou W
Your favourite book?
Travel sketch book
Your favourite food and drink?
Chinese Dim sum and green tea.
Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?
Sitting at a coffee shop with a sketchbook, drawing sketches.
If you weren’t a designer, what would you be?
Artist
Anything else interesting?
I plan to publish a travel painting watercolour book.