Ruby Chen: Problem-Solving Design
/ Creative Designer
by Elizabeth Lavis | 15 Sept 2026
"I also learned that I enjoyed solving problems with design and creativity"
Creative designer Ruby Chen believes that successful design hinges on one key element: its ability to solve the problem. Chen, who is originally from Taiwan, discovered her love of design in high school, when she majored in interior design. “I found that this field wasn’t for me, but I also learned that I enjoyed solving problems with design and creativity,” Chen says.
Chen went on to study visual communication design and took a one-year internship in UI design in Taiwan before getting her Master of Arts in illustration in the United Kingdom. “I wasn’t sure whether I should focus on just UI design and nothing else. I hoped my M.A. would help me combine my visual design and illustration skills,” she says. “I’m glad I decided to pursue an illustration degree, because I use all the knowledge I gained from different visual communication fields, like graphic design, UI design, and illustration, in my current job.”
When beginning a new design, Chen starts by understanding exactly what the client is looking for, then looking at projects that are similar to what she’s aiming to achieve in terms of format and style. “Then, I sketch several pencil drafts,” Chen says. “I try to come up with different versions, then pick the best ones and refine them.” Chen balances strategy and creativity by creating a framework of what elements she can’t compromise or change, then allowing herself to think outside the box with the rest.
Chen stays sharp by tackling all non-creative tasks first, so there’s less pressure when she needs to be creative. She’s also realistic with her time management, striving to be as accurate as possible with how long a project will take and allowing a little slack for unexpected delays. She also builds in variation to avoid stagnation and burnout. “Sometimes switching between projects helps avoid fatigue and add a bit of freshness to the work,” Chen says.
She also prioritizes her work/life balance with good time management practices and setting up separate areas for work and play. “It’s important to have a separate work area, especially if you work from home,” Chen says. “I also find that stopping work at least three hours before you have to go to bed helps you sleep better.”
While she has a clear, physical distinction of where her work area is, Chen does admit that one of her guilty pleasures is staying ultra comfy. “I work from home most of the time, and sometimes when I don’t have a meeting, I stay in my pajamas all day,” she says.
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