Combining industrial and interior design process, they shape magical experiences

Established in 2023 and based in Taipei, Anvil Dust Studio is the brainchild of Jesden Tang, Neo Tseng, and Violet Tao, who shared the vision to blend their backgrounds in interior and industrial design, crafting innovative works that seamlessly merge functionality with aesthetic appeal.

Central to the studio’s ethos are values of authenticity, creativity, and meticulous attention to detail. Beyond the glamour of the final product, the studio acknowledges the often overlooked challenges and intricacies involved in the design process, underscoring the importance of perseverance and resilience in their practice.

We had a conversation with Jesden Tang, one of the founders, to delve deeper into their design approach and work philosophy.

Who is Anvil Dust Studio? How did your design journey begin?

Anvil Dust Studio:

“Anvil Dust Studio draws inspiration from the mythos of craftsmanship. Crafting on the anvil is revered as a magical process, transforming fire and minerals into tools or daily objects. Even the dust falling from the anvil was believed to possess magical properties, symbolizing luck and the sense of ritual for creation. As the embodiment of this ethos, we are the Anvil Dust—creators who forge magical experiences.

With a fusion of industrial and interior design expertise, our studio harmonizes visions and design principles from both realms. United by a shared ethos, our team collectively pursues innovative design solutions to deliver impact and unity in our creations.”

Which are the main values, core concepts or style inclinations that, above all, will always represent the studio and yourself?

Anvil Dust Studio:

“Our foundational concept revolves around ‘reinterpreting experiences’ and a ‘sense of ritual.’ We aim to address challenges by fusing functionality and cultural or behavioral insights. We firmly believe that exceptional products should offer not just utility, but also imbue everyday experiences with a touch of magic and ritualistic significance.”

How do you choose the type of client/project to work on?

Anvil Dust Studio:

“We thrive on collaborations with clients who align with our vision for their brand and share our drive to excel in competitive markets. We value partners who are equally enthusiastic about the design journey and eagerly join us in the creative process from conception to realization.”

What is one aspect of your job that is difficult, tiring and little known, but definitely crucial to your practice?

Anvil Dust Studio:

“Based on our extensive experience, we understand the pivotal role of communication in our practice, especially considering that many clients may need a more precise vision during the product development phase. Our approach involves guiding them through each process step, delving deep into discussions to uncover their dilemmas and pain points. By facilitating open dialogue, we ensure that every project is tailored to meet our client’s unique needs and expectations.”

Which designers/architects are you inspired or influenced by? What other fields and inputs outside of the design world provide you inspiration?

Anvil Dust Studio:

“We found inspiration in Thomas Heatherwick, whose innovative approach to design spans everyday objects to architecture. With his distinct aesthetic and style, Heatherwick transcends conventional boundaries. His work serves as a testament to the limitless possibilities within the design realm. We also draw inspiration from Nintendo’s former president, Satoru Iwata, who dedicated his career to delivering genuine experiences for gamers and users alike. Iwata’s commitment to authenticity and user-centric design resonates deeply with Anvil Dust Studio’s goal.”

What is your relationship with social media? What is the impact of social media on your work as compared to the “real” world?

Anvil Dust Studio:

“For us, social media serves as a window into our creative process, offering the world a glimpse into how we collaborate as a team to transform ideas into tangible products. We view social media as a powerful tool for connecting with individuals who share our vision, preferences, and inspirations. Its impact lies in its ability to unite like-minded individuals, fostering a community driven by a common passion for design.

Social media serves as a window into our creative process, offering the world a glimpse into how we collaborate as a team to transform ideas into tangible products. We view social media as a powerful tool for connecting with individuals who share our vision, preferences, and inspirations. Its impact lies in its ability to unite like-minded individuals, fostering a community driven by a shared passion for design.”

Can you give us a comment to tackle the eternal dilemma of ambitious students: “Should I get a job or start my own firm?”

Anvil Dust Studio:

“Regardless of one’s ambition in the design industry, securing a job or internship is often the initial step. It provides invaluable insights into companies’ operations and how diverse departments with varying expertise collaborate on projects. While students are abundant in imagination and creativity, merging these qualities with real-world experience is crucial. By applying practical knowledge and a creative mindset, individuals can craft unique and innovative solutions.”