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Meet Yu Sin, a talented UI designer based in Taipei, Taiwan, who has dedicated nearly six years to mastering his craft across various settings, from SaaS companies to freelance projects. His workspace, a compact 8 m² (86 ft²), is a true reflection of his personal style and design philosophy, blending a minimalist yet futuristic aesthetic that emphasizes both form and function.
The Evolution of a Designer’s Workspace
Yu Sin’s workspace didn’t always look this way. He started with a simple desk in his rental apartment, but over the years, it has transformed through six iterations. Each change has been a significant step toward creating a space that embodies his identity and meets his professional needs. With a focus on hobbies and entertainment, his current setup is perfect for indulging in shows, gaming, and building Gundam plastic models—known as Gunpla—which have been a cherished part of his life since childhood. “Building and customizing Gunpla is my creative outlet; it’s hands-on and surprisingly similar to product design,” he shares. Isn’t it fascinating how our hobbies can mirror our professional passions?
This commitment to personal expression shines through in his workspace. A side window lets in natural light, which is complemented by a monitor light during the day and a desk lamp at night. This thoughtful lighting choice creates a cozy atmosphere, steering clear of harsh ceiling lights. Yu Sin emphasizes that crafting a personal space is vital for any creator, as it nurtures an environment conducive to both productivity and relaxation.
Tools of the Trade: The Designer’s Essential Gear
For Yu Sin, his mechanical keyboard and headphones are indispensable tools in his daily workflow. “If I had to choose, I’d go with my mechanical keyboard because I built it myself,” he explains, highlighting the personal connection he has with his equipment. Most of his design work takes place in Figma, allowing him to work efficiently without the hassle of switching between multiple applications. He also uses Lightroom for photo editing and CapCut for video projects, and he’s recently started exploring color grading with DaVinci Resolve.
His organizational strategy is straightforward yet effective. He relies on Apple Calendar to track important deadlines and events, ensuring nothing falls through the cracks. Notion serves as his central hub for notes, design references, and personal expenses. This systematic approach to organization not only boosts his productivity but also helps him manage his resources wisely. How do you keep your workflow organized?
Balancing Work and Leisure in a Busy Life
Yu Sin’s day kicks off early at 6 am, starting with a refreshing glass of water and meal prep for the day ahead. His office setup is crucial for maintaining focus on design tasks, and he adheres to a disciplined schedule to keep work and personal time separate. “When I worked from home, planning my schedule and to-do list in detail became essential,” he notes. This adaptability has enabled him to thrive in both remote and office environments.
After work, Yu Sin often returns to his desk to unwind. Whether he’s building Gunpla kits, creating content for Instagram, or gaming with friends, he cherishes these moments of relaxation. His gaming preferences lean towards first-person shooters like PUBG and Rainbow Six, where he enjoys the camaraderie more than the competition. Isn’t it great to have a space that allows you to engage in activities you love?
“Your setup will evolve over time, so flexibility matters,” Yu Sin advises. He encourages others to invest in quality items that resonate with their personal style and needs, emphasizing that a thoughtfully designed workspace can significantly enhance both productivity and enjoyment. What changes have you made to your workspace that have had a positive impact?