About me

Mingxuan Li (b. 1994, China) focuses on architectural theory and the historical and social analysis of design. Currently based in London, he works as a cross-disciplinary product designer, with experience ranging from consumer electronics to furniture. Recently, he has dedicated himself to exploring how architectural aesthetics and ethics can be integrated into everyday scenarios.

His work addresses various themes, from individual trauma to societal evolution. His installation "Crack" draws from his experience living with ichthyosis, using thermal polymer as an expressive medium. In contrast, his furniture project "Monumental Units" examines the dynamic relationship between Brutalism and contemporary society. By applying Brutalist principles, such as "as found" and béton brut, he investigates their relevance in today’s design landscape. This work was showcased at the Camberwell and Chelsea MA Design Show.

As a designer and researcher, Li is deeply driven by historical research into design objects. His studies aim to uncover the narratives embedded in objects and the impact of historical shifts on their form and function. His research goes beyond aesthetics and craftsmanship, delving into these objects' ethical and societal values.

In his practice, Li predominantly works with cement and concrete, experimenting with various formulations such as translucent concrete and glass-fibre-reinforced concrete to meet diverse design needs. Inspired by recent explorations in concrete casting, he plans to further develop mould design and precasting techniques. Moving forward, he intends to focus on large-scale, publicly oriented works that engage communities through form and material.

In his architectural studies, Li questions the ethical values embedded in today’s commercial housing and how these values manifest physically. On a broader societal level, he examines whether these values align with the interests of the neoliberal market and why free-market competition often leads to homogenization. These inquiries will guide his future research and practice as an independent designer, enabling him to challenge and reshape conventional design narratives.