The Dwell 24: Animate Objects
Zeynep Satık infuses her furnishings with theatricality. Recently establishing the aptly named Animate Objects studio in her native Istanbul, the Central Saint Martins, London, graduate crafts limited-edition designs with human movement and figuration in mind. While the Exposè mirrors form around the abstracted depiction of a dancer, the Traveling Performers table collection reflects the shapes of a body in dramatic motion.
"I treat furniture as a means of creating immersive and transformative experiences," Satık explains, "similar to the way theater sets transport audiences to different worlds or times."
Having started in stage design before establishing her own practice, Satık imbues her work with personality. Her sculptural furnishings act as protagonists, not only influencing the look and feel of an interior but also activating it the way you or I might.
Read the full Q&A with Zeynep Satık below.
Hometown: İstanbul, Turkey.
Describe what you make in 140 characters... I design soulful furniture that functions as storytellers, bringing animation and theatricality to interiors.
What’s the last thing you designed? The last thing I designed was a console table, which will be part of my upcoming new collection.
Do you have a daily creative ritual? In my daily creative ritual, I start by taking a peaceful hour-long walk in the park with my dog while enjoying my coffee, allowing me to clear my mind and set a positive tone for the day. Afterwards, I check the latest news and updates in both the world and the design industry, ensuring that I remain connected to the environment in which I live and create.
How do you procrastinate? Sometimes, I catch myself procrastinating by dedicating an excessive amount of time to trivial tasks, utilizing them as a way to evade the essential project that demands my attention.
What everyday object would you like to redesign? Why? If I were to redesign an everyday object, I would choose door handles. I think they have a significant impact on the overall aesthetic of a space, and by giving them a stylish redesign, we can transform the doors themselves, adding personality and charm to the entire space.
Who are your heroes (in design, in life, in both)? My heroes, in life and design, are my mother and Kelly Wearstler. They’re strong, inspiring women who've achieved success in their fields. My mother’s dedication and ability to balance career and family inspire me. Kelly Wearstler, a renowned designer, has made an indelible mark with her bold style, earning recognition. They remind me to embrace my path, knowing passion and perseverance can achieve anything.
What skill would you most like to learn? Surfing.
What is your most treasured possession? My most treasured possession is my dog, whom I adopted from a shelter. His presence fills my life with immeasurable joy and companionship.
What’s your earliest memory of an encounter with design? One of my earliest memories of engaging with design dates back to my childhood when I designed an animated recycled paper bin for a school art competition.
What contemporary design trend do you despise? Excessive use of minimalism.
Finish this statement: All design should... ignite imagination, evoke emotions, and leave lasting impressions.
What’s in your dream house? In my dream house, a theatrical touch is added by the presence of a majestic indoor tree that grows through the center, blurring the line between nature and artifice.
How can the design world be more inclusive? The design world can be more inclusive by providing safe and welcoming spaces for diverse voices, fostering collaboration among designers from various backgrounds, and encouraging equal opportunities for emerging talents.
What do you wish non-designers understood about the design industry? I wish non-designers understood that design is not limited to visual aesthetics and doesn't happen overnight, but rather is a journey that requires time, research, and experimentation.
Top Image: Courtesy Animate Objects
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