Heman Xia

Originally from Shenzhen, China. I am an interior designer with a passion for Architecture, Spatial Narrative, and the Social Environment.

Prior to my time at the RCA, I studied Interior Design at the University of Arts London(UAL), Chelsea College of Arts & Design with a major in BA Interior & Spatial Design (2014-2017). It is my credo to be curious about everything that is unknown. Constantly challenging different areas and trying new things is my way of learning.

After graduating, I worked as an interior designer, including commercial spaces, personal residences and commercial showroom, in addition to architectural and engineering work experience. This provides an understanding of the influence of new technologies for interior design. I like to find a balance between innovation and tradition in one space, so that each space has its own unique story. Buildings and spaces are alive and dynamic. The communication between human and space begins when we stay in the space.

Exhibition & Award:

The second prize of "Mind the Gap" project, Heathrow Express and Chelsea College 2016, London

"Democratic Seat", Kortrijk Design Week 2019, Kortrijk, Belgium

"John Hejduk: London Masque / Transitions display", Royal Academy of Arts 2022, London

The future, near and far.

People destroy the environment to develop the economy, and use the economy to create technology, finally, the environment may be completely destroyed and technology will completely replace human beings. Is this really the future that human beings wish to see? 

With the constant quest for high technology, people seem to have forgotten the essence of human nature. Technology is flexible and precise; artefacts are materially romantic and wonderful. They are not supposed to replace each other, but to appreciate and heal and benefit each other.

In 2095, the sea level has risen by 3.5m and some of London has been submerged, people's use of space has had to start move on and underwater or to higher altitudes. In addition, papers and manuscripts of historical artefacts, which are customarily kept in the basements of museums, will be put to a great test by being submerged, torn apart and lost.  

Manuscripts record history on paper; even a tiny bit of ink on paper can represent the culture of an era. That is why saving these manuscripts has become crucial in this future, bringing people back from a digital future to remember the era of physical artefacts and the written word.