At Atelier Davis, we believe design is more than aesthetics—it’s storytelling, heritage, and the power to illuminate culture. This AANHPI Heritage Month, I’ve been reflecting on the idea of light—as inspiration, as craft, and as a symbol of visibility for Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander creatives shaping the design world.
As a half-Chinese, designer raised in Hong Kong, my perspective has always been shaped by my Asian American background – a blend of cultures, histories, and visual languages. Growing up in Hong Kong—a city defined by density, contrast, and luminous energy—light wasn’t just functional; it was atmospheric, emotional, and ever-present. That early influence continues to inform how I approach design today: layered, dynamic, and deeply rooted in identity.
An Evening of Light: AAPIDA Gala in Los Angeles
This month, I had the honor of speaking at the AAPIDA Gala: An Evening of Light in Los Angeles, hosted by the Asian American Pacific Islander Design Alliance. As President and Co-Founder, it was an incredibly meaningful moment—both professionally and personally.
Standing in that room, I was reminded how important representation is—not just in numbers, but in voice and leadership. In my speech, I spoke about my own journey navigating the design industry as an Asian American woman, and the responsibility we have to create pathways for others. The theme of light became a metaphor for visibility—shining a light on our stories, our work, and the generations coming behind us.
The evening was a powerful reminder: when we come together, we don’t just reflect light—we amplify it.
Light as Collaboration: Atelier Davis x LALA Curio
Light also played a central role in our recent collaboration with LALA Curio, a brand that shares our passion for storytelling through design. Together, we explored how light interacts with texture, pattern, and color—creating pieces that feel immersive and expressive.
For me, this collaboration was also about cultural dialogue—how different influences can come together to create something new, while still honoring where they come from. That balance is something I think about often in my work, especially given my own multicultural background.
Illuminating AAPI Voices in Lighting Design
Lighting continues to be one of the most compelling mediums for storytelling in design—and AAPI makers are doing extraordinary work in this space. A few designers I deeply admire include:
John Pomp – His sculptural approach to glass and metal captures light in a way that feels both raw and refined.
Rosie Li – I’m especially drawn to her new faceted collection, which plays with geometry and reflection in such a thoughtful, elegant way.
Virginia Sin (SIN) – Her ceramic-based lighting brings a softness and tactility that feels grounded and intimate.
Ladies & Gentlemen Studio – Their work consistently pushes boundaries, blending art, design, and lighting into pieces that feel both experimental and beautifully resolved.
Why Representation in Design Matters
AANHPI Heritage Month is a time to celebrate—but also to reflect on how far we still have to go. For me, it’s deeply personal. It’s about honoring my heritage, the city that raised me, and the community that continues to shape my perspective.
At Atelier Davis, we’re committed to continuing this work—through collaboration, advocacy, and design that reflects a broader, more inclusive story. Because light isn’t just something we design with—it’s something we create space for. And everyone deserves to be seen.