Home LifestyleGlobal Design BODW 2024 Q&A Session with Ramy Fischler: Designing Spaces with Innovation & Sustainability

BODW 2024 Q&A Session with Ramy Fischler: Designing Spaces with Innovation & Sustainability

by creativehomex

Ramy Fischler, a Belgian designer based in Paris, is known for his eclectic and innovative approach to design. As a key speaker at the recent BODW 2024 in Hong Kong, Fischler explored the intersection of creativity, artistry, and functionality in shaping the future of spaces during an engaging session titled “Designing Spaces with Ramy Fischler: A Synthesis of Design, Artistry, and Innovation.” In this eye-opening interview, Iko In, Creative Home’s Publisher, chats with Fischler to learn more about his perspectives on design.

With a background from the École Nationale Supérieure de Création Industrielle (ENSCI-Les Ateliers), Ramy Fischler’s journey began working alongside renowned designer Patrick Jouin. In 2010, he established his own studio, RF Studio, after being appointed a resident at the prestigious Académie de France in Rome. Over the years, Fischler has worked on a diverse range of projects, from luxury designs and public spaces to collaborations with major names like Chanel and Maison&Objet, where he was named Designer of the Year in 2018. His work reflects a blend of artistry, functionality, and cutting-edge innovation, with a deep respect for craftsmanship and sustainability.

When asked about what innovation means to him, Fischler’s approach is both broad and inclusive. He notes, “Innovation is really the result of all the experience we have in the studio, which we try to mix from various fields—office spaces, hospitals, hospitality, hotels, restaurants. We try to be everywhere to gather information and spark curiosity, and mix it all together.” This open-minded approach allows Fischler and his team to continuously explore new territories, leading to creative breakthroughs in their designs. For him, innovation is about embracing the full spectrum of expertise and knowledge, enabling a cross-disciplinary fusion that enhances the creative process.

Fischler also takes a nuanced approach to incorporating French culture into his designs. He explains: “I think France is about multiculturalism. In France, we try not to be too French but to be open to the world. However, what I think we’re strong at in France is decorative arts. We have a long history of craftsmanship, know-how, and artisanal métiers.” This connection to France’s rich history in decorative arts provides Fischler with a unique foundation for his design work, one that celebrates both tradition and modernity.

Sustainability is a core principle for Fischler in every aspect of his practice. “I am part of a generation that is very focused on sustainability,” he says. “What I like about colour, textures, or materials is where they come from. Are they natural or chemical? Could we use natural colours instead? That’s something that really influences our choices.” Fischler is dedicated to using sustainable materials and processes, ensuring that every design decision aligns with the environmental challenges of today.

As the world increasingly embraces AI and smart technologies, Fischler also sees the potential for these tools to shape the future of design. “It’s too early to know how AI will impact design, but at the moment we use AI at the studio mainly to help us create 3D models. It also helps us archive images and references.” While he acknowledges the current limitations of AI, he is optimistic about its future role, especially in creating deeper connections between people and the natural world. “I am working on a very crazy project between humans and plants. I am sure that AI will eventually help us to have other communication between people but also between us and the living world.”

In his design philosophy, Fischler places a strong emphasis on collaboration. He states, “What I always try to do is work collectively. Whatever the project, I always try to connect people and connect expertise. The role of the designer is to be a bridge between people and to help them work together.” This collaborative mindset is key to his success in handling projects that require diverse skills and knowledge, from luxury spaces to public environments.

For Fischler, sustainability remains one of the biggest challenges facing the design industry today. “I think the main challenge is sustainability. We need to work with used materials. We need to work on new materials. We need to connect with others working on sustainability. It’s a big challenge, but it’s not scary. I think it’s an opportunity to design differently.” His belief that sustainability is not just a challenge, but an opportunity to innovate, is a driving force in his work.

At BODW, Fischler encourages designers to stay curious and open-minded. “Design is not just one way of thinking or one kind of object. My way of making design and thinking about design is really about being aware of what happens everywhere. Curiosity is key, and opportunities are key too.” He also values the global collaboration fostered by events like BODW, stating, “It’s really an opportunity to meet other people who do the same job or people who need designers, or people who need to understand what we do. I think it’s a great opportunity to show our work and our methodology.”


Interview: Iko In
Article: Lily Wong
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