Inspiration through material
AI-Driven Series, Caroline Keslassy • © Studio Ki
Caroline Keslassy, who is fascinated by technology, brings objects to life that are captivating because of their character and photogenic qualities. In 2024, the interior designer founded Studio Ki, a creative laboratory that promotes dialogue between collection design, immersive experience and artificial intelligence. Having trained in Silicon Valley, she then went to the San Francisco Academy of Arts, developing projects as part of a forward-looking approach that is connected to the realities of our time.
I have always approached interior design projects in a comprehensive way, right down to the design of the door handles. In this sense, I was already working in collection design. It is with this in mind that I founded this new entity dedicated to the creation of unique pieces and limited series, combining art, design and technology.
At the heart of Studio Ki’s creative process is the relationship with the objects concerned. Each piece appeals to the emotions and a personal engagement. Whether it is because of its function, its connection with digital art or its symbolism, it conveys a message and prompts the audience to interact. I see it as a character with a unique personality that I interpret, giving it specific design attributes and a narrative.
For example, during Thema, I presented the Gaia line. This series was hand-sculpted in collaboration with Chilean artist, Abel Cárcamo, and brought to life through a digital tarot experience. At the same time, I propose capsule collections created using AI. All the pieces are identified by a unique code that reflects their essence, i.e. a letter for the function, a number for the narrative, a symbol for the production and a final letter for the subject.
I always start with a drawing, an idea and a narrative in order to guide the tool. Although this is also a lengthy process, the rendering is much more precise than with conventional 3D software. These never-before-seen images incorporate variations that no-one would have even thought of such as the depth of a seam or the placement of a fold. This significantly reduces the time and costs associated with the prototyping process.
AI is an amazing design aid that pushes creation beyond traditional boundaries. I can use it to test alternative uses of materials in real time and imagine bold combinations tailored to common practices and lifestyles that are changing very quickly. Freed from the often lengthy lead times associated with furniture design, I can bring my projects to life at unparalleled speeds.
Once the creative avenues have been validated, AI is no longer required. I resume the work on the modelling, plans and specifications for the workshops. The role of AI is as a transitional tool between the conceptual and manufacturing phase. It acts as a catalyst for refining my intentions and making my creative approach run more smoothly, but it remains an innovation at the service of the designer.
My first pieces designed with the help of AI are currently in production, including a series that I designed for a prestigious Brazilian publishing house. And at the beginning of 2025, I will unveil the KI Suite in Paris at a hybrid venue that will be part showroom, part PR event focusing on the creations of Studio Ki. •
