We caught up with the brilliant and insightful Haoming Li a few weeks ago and have shared our conversation below.

Haoming, looking forward to hearing all of your stories today. Can you talk to us about a project that’s meant a lot to you?

The most meaningful project I’ve worked on is the Weaving Chair collection. This project holds a special place in my heart because it was born from a simple, yet profound moment of inspiration. While absentmindedly weaving a receipt one day, I realized that the concept of two-dimensional weaving could be translated into a three-dimensional design. That initial spark led to the creation of the Weaving Chair, a collection that combines traditional craftsmanship with modern minimalism.

What makes this project especially meaningful to me is how it embodies everything I stand for as a designer: a deep respect for materiality, a focus on precision and craftsmanship, and a commitment to creating pieces that evolve with time. The chair’s design integrates simple, elegant forms with intricate weaving techniques, resulting in a piece that feels both timeless and contemporary.

The recognition the Weaving Chair received, including the Red Dot Design Award and the MUSE Design Award, made the project even more significant. But beyond the awards, what truly matters to me is how this collection has resonated with people. The ability to create something that not only stands the test of time but also connects emotionally with its users is what makes this project so meaningful. It’s a perfect example of how design can be both functional and beautiful, with a lasting impact on the lives it touches.

As always, we appreciate you sharing your insights and we’ve got a few more questions for you, but before we get to all of that can you take a minute to introduce yourself and give our readers some of your back background and context?

My design philosophy centers on creating timeless, meaningful pieces that seamlessly blend craftsmanship, functionality, and storytelling. I approach each creation with a deep respect for materiality and an eye for detail, ensuring that every piece carries a narrative and evolves gracefully over time. My work is about balance—harmonizing subtlety with boldness, tradition with modernity, and simplicity with depth.

Inspiration for my designs comes from everywhere. It’s not limited to art, music, or architecture but extends to the richness of daily life. Walking through bustling city streets, feeling the rhythm of urban energy, listening to the noise of traffic, or immersing myself in the quiet of nature—all these experiences fuel my creative process. The sound of rain, the whisper of the wind, or even the unexpected beauty of fleeting moments can spark an idea and shape a design. For me, design is about capturing the essence of these experiences and translating them into something tangible and timeless.

This philosophy has guided the development of hm-LI Studio, where we focus on creating furniture that resonates emotionally with its users while standing the test of time. Each piece reflects a blend of intricate craftsmanship and a distinct sense of modernity, aiming to not only serve a functional purpose but also elevate its surroundings and inspire those who interact with it.

Is there mission driving your creative journey?

My creative journey is rooted in a mission to celebrate vernacular craftsmanship while creating designs that evoke a strong emotional connection with their users. I am deeply inspired by the richness of traditional craft techniques, and I strive to reinterpret them in a modern, relevant context. Each piece I create carries a sense of history and human touch, connecting users not just to the object itself but to the stories embedded within its materials and craftsmanship.

At the same time, I believe design should go beyond function and aesthetics—it should establish an emotional resonance, something that makes people feel connected to the object on a personal level. Whether it’s through the texture of a material, the curve of a form, or the subtle details in a design, I aim to create work that becomes a meaningful and enduring part of people’s lives. By blending the beauty of traditional techniques with contemporary design, I seek to create objects that bridge the gap between the past and present while fostering lasting relationships between people and the pieces they choose to surround themselves with.

How’d you build such a strong reputation within your market?

My reputation is built on artisan expertise, tailored experiences, and meaningful storytelling. Every piece reflects meticulous craftsmanship, from material selection to precise execution, ensuring quality and longevity. I prioritize a client-focused approach, creating personalized designs that align with their vision while maintaining my design integrity.

What sets my work apart is the narrative behind each piece—inspired by vernacular craftsmanship, cultural heritage, and personal reflections. These stories transform my designs into more than functional objects; they create emotional connections and lasting value. By consistently delivering quality, fostering trust, and emphasizing sustainability, my work resonates deeply with clients and the design community.

Contact Info:

• Website: https://hm-li.com
• Instagram: @hmli_studio