Interview: Samy Rio -Design that connects tradition and modernity-
Samy Rio is a French designer who, after training in woodworking, obtained a degree in industrial design from the École Nationale Supérieure de Design in Paris. He established his own studio in 2015 and uses his experience as a woodworker to create designs that combine durability and delicacy. He is inspired by both industry and craftsmanship and creates works using ecological materials. His works are simple and minimal, but he puts deep thought into the materials and techniques he uses. Representative examples include the aluminum lamp he designed for the French interior brand Petites Friture and the larch basket exhibited at the showroom of the Japanese furniture brand Karimoku Furniture.
How do you integrate the latest technologies and tools into your design process?
In most cases we aim to minimize the impact of our projects. Many new technologies in the field of production make it possible to control and reduce the impact of our projects. New tools allow for a more open, medium scale production, no longer just craft or mass production.
What strategies do you use to achieve sustainable design?
Work according to the scale of your project: where will you source your materials from, how much product will you produce for how many people, and for how long. You need a more eco-systemic approach than just making a profit from your product.
How do you balance functionality and aesthetics in your designs?
This isn't original, but we think function creates beauty.
How do you approach sketching and prototyping?
I make some sketches and 3D models, then I move quickly to making a full-scale model or prototype. To make a good project, I need to understand how it will be made, so I make the first prototype myself.
What are the key factors in selecting a material?
Locality of materials is becoming more and more important. In smaller projects, it is easier to follow this path because it is easier to control the resources used.
How do your design ideas come about? What is your main source of inspiration?
Ideas often come from sharing with partners or clients, and of course sometimes I have an idea that I want to develop myself, even if there is no specific need or topic, but I usually need some input.
What kind of research do you do early in the design process?
It depends on the type of project, but generally it involves research into production methods and how materials are transformed into products.
Tell us about your upcoming projects and themes you would like to explore.
I am currently working with engineers to develop a natural wood adhesive, which is a lengthy process but one that is very interesting to understand and embrace the whole scale and life cycle of things and products.
Are there any Japanese designers or artists that you particularly admire?
A few years ago I was asked to curate an exhibition by SANAA Architects for a museum in France, and ever since then I've been a big fan of their thinking on public spaces.
You've lived in Japan for some time. How has Japan's natural environment influenced your creativity?
My time in Japan was invaluable and helped me to combine tradition and modernity in my work, which had a profound impact on my aesthetic sensibilities and the way I see things in everyday life.
Based on your experiences in Japan, is there any message you would like to convey to young designers and artists?
As a designer of household products and everyday objects, I think it is very important to be exposed to the lives of other cultures. Japan has a lot in common with Western culture, but also has its own traditions and cultural characteristics. My time in Japan was invaluable because it allowed me to recognize these hybrid elements and to be exposed to unknown items and artifacts.
