Renowned for his steadfast commitment to environmental sustainability and intricate craft-centric designs, Ayush Kasliwal, the visionary founder of AKFD Studio, stands at the forefront of contemporary design innovation. In this exclusive interview, Ayush delves into the ethos guiding his studio’s projects, emphasizing the pivotal role of sustainability and craftsmanship in shaping their design philosophy. From integrating traditional craft techniques to fostering symbiotic relationships between artisans and industries, Ayush offers profound insights into the intricate balance of aesthetics and functionality that defines his work.
“In this day and age, we’ll be talking about AI mechanizing, finding things off the shelf industry, I think we have to talk about it in the context of our country, in the context of its people, and in the context of the geography that India has, and see how we can find new ways to use handmade, craft-centric designs.
Ayush Kasliwal, the visionary founder of AKFD Studio
Q: Your work reflects a strong commitment to environmental sustainability and craft-centric designs. How do you incorporate these principles into your projects, and what role do they play in shaping your design philosophy?
Ayush: Sustainability is a crucial aspect that we prioritise in all our projects. Due to the finite nature of resources, we emphasise frugality in our approach. I take this responsibility seriously. Craft is integral, as India possesses a vast community of skilled artisans. As a major employer, the building industry can benefit from a symbiotic relationship with these artisans, contributing to a more stable society. Our design philosophy centres around a unified vision and connecting various elements.
Q: How do you balance innovations and functionality in your designs to ensure they are both aesthetically pleasing and functional?
Ayush: Balancing innovation and functionality is not about conflicting ideas; rather, they converge to create something effective and beautiful. It requires time, patience, and intuition to find the right mix that serves its intended purpose while being visually appealing.
Q: Could you elaborate on how you and your team are working toward achieving this goal and the impact you aim to make in the lives of artisans through your practice and design initiatives?
Ayush: It’s a significant task but achievable. We advocate for crafts and explore possibilities in our projects, retail businesses, and industrial designs. However, we approach it pragmatically, understanding that crafts may not be a universal solution. We emphasize utilizing crafts where they excel and avoid forcing them into unsuitable contexts. Our initiatives aim to showcase the unique capabilities of crafts and promote their relevance in the modern world.
Q: How was your experience working with Dormakaba and utilizing their product portfolios in your projects?
Ayush: We have had a great experience with Dormakaba and have specified their products in many projects due to their versatility and future-ready solutions. The company’s products have expanded our design possibilities and align well with our vision. We appreciate their innovative approach, which opens up new avenues for our designs.