LIXIL Facets of Design

In this episode of LIXIL Facets of Design, host Paul Flowers, Chief Design and Brand Identity Officer at LIXIL, sits down with Steve Leung, one of Asia’s most influential architects and designers, to explore the ideas, cultural influences and human experiences that have shaped his remarkable career. With more than four decades of experience and a global portfolio spanning architecture, interiors and product design, Steve has built an internationally recognised practice defined by contemporary elegance, Asian cultural sensibilities, and a deep understanding of how people live, work, and connect with their surroundings.From landmark hospitality projects, including Shangri-La Hotel at The Shard in London, Marina Bay Sands in Singapore and The Londoner Macao in Macau, to evolving ideas of home and wellness. Steve shares how he creates spaces that balance aesthetics, functionality and emotional warmth. Join us for a thoughtful conversation about the power and importance of design.

In this episode of LIXIL Facets of Design, host Paul Flowers, Chief Design & Brand Identity Officer and Executive Vice President at LIXIL, welcomes internationally acclaimed Japanese architect Kengo Kuma, founder of Kengo Kuma & Associates.From the childhood memories that first sparked his fascination with architecture to the experiences that shaped his philosophy of “Defeated Architecture,” Kuma reflects on the ideas, materials, and encounters that continue to influence his work.Kuma shares how observing Japan’s rapid transformation, travelling through the Sahara Desert, and encountering the architecture of Frank Lloyd Wright changed his perspective on the relationship between buildings and their surroundings. He discusses his enduring connection to natural materials such as wood, bamboo, and stone, the importance of physically experiencing a site, and how architecture can encourage a dialogue between people and nature.The conversation also explores landmark projects including the Japan National Stadium, Nezu Museum, V&A Dundee, and his 2025 Osaka-Kansai Expo pavilion, as well as his collaborations beyond architecture.Credit:kosoff - stock.adobe.com

Paul Flowers welcomes Andy Vernall of V2 Studios for a conversation about innovation, collaboration, and designing meaningful experiences across industries. From toys and mobility to healthcare and consumer technology. Andy shares lessons from over 20 years of helping global brands bring ideas to life while championing sustainability and social impact.

In this episode of LIXIL's Facets of Design podcast, host Paul Flowers sits down with Mauro Porcini, the first Chief Design Officer at Samsung, former Chief Design Officer at PepsiCo and Chief Design Officer at 3M.Together, they explore what it takes to elevate design to the highest levels of business leadership and transform design into a strategic driver of innovation. Mauro shares insights from his groundbreaking career, reflecting on the challenges of creating new paths for design leadership.From building beloved brands and experiences to fostering meaningful human connection through design, this conversation explores how to elevate functionality to create products, services and experiences that people truly love.

In the latest episode of LIXIL’s Facets of Design podcast, host Paul Flowers sits down with wellness pioneer and Strategic Advisor for hotel and resort brand Six Senses, Anna Bjurstam, to explore the powerful connection between water, wellbeing, and design.Together they discuss how thoughtful rituals, immersive environments and sensory experiences can enhance the way we feel and live. Rooted in the philosophy of Salus Per Aquam (wellbeing through water), the conversation explores how innovation, from GROHE filtration systems to stimulating spray experiences, can transform everyday interactions with water into meaningful wellness moments.The episode also delves into Anna’s visionary approach to hospitality and her role in shaping the evolution of Six Senses, alongside a broader conversation about longevity, biohacking, and the future of wellness design.