CTRLZAK: a hybrid approach to design
Katia and Thanos, founders of CTRLZAK Studio, take us through their unique design process, combining deep research, art direction, and natural inspiration. The duo reveals how tradition and culture serve as key elements in their creative journey.
In this new episode of ‘Behind,’ we enter the fascinating studio of Katia and Thanos, where their hybrid approach to design drives every project. Passionate about a broad range of disciplines, they work across different fields, merging research, art direction, and product design. Their process is rooted in extensive exploration—whether through books, digital resources, or field research—allowing them to develop concepts that engage with their audience on a deeper level.
For them, research is the foundation of every project, forming ideas that evolve into meaningful narratives. Their goal is not just to create objects but to foster a dialogue that encourages reflection. Their eclectic studio space mirrors this approach, filled with carefully selected objects, each carrying symbolic value. Among these, rocks take on particular significance for Thanos, who views them as nature’s ultimate artwork. These natural elements, scattered throughout the studio, serve as creative triggers, inspiring fresh perspectives.
This method extends beyond specific projects to encompass all aspects of their art direction. By drawing on a variety of influences and materials, they allow ideas to develop organically, much like assembling the pieces of a puzzle. Art direction, for Katia and Thanos, is an opportunity to express their diverse interests, gathering elements from different realms to shape cohesive projects.
A key element in their work is the deep connection to tradition and culture, which forms the backbone of their creative process. By studying historical and cultural references, they gain valuable insights that inform their designs. Tradition is more than just an inspiration; it is a touchstone that connects their work to a larger context, offering a richer understanding of the present by looking through the lens of the past.
Their design philosophy is about weaving together history, personal experiences, and cultural narratives. This thoughtful integration of the old and the new allows their work to transcend typical boundaries, creating designs that engage with both the personal and the universal. Respect for tradition and culture remains central to their work, not just as a source of inspiration but as a crucial element that gives their projects depth and authenticity. Each project becomes a dialogue, linking history and cultural heritage with contemporary thought.
Through this approach, Katia and Thanos continue to challenge the conventions of design, transforming each project into a journey of discovery that connects tradition, research, and natural inspiration into a harmonious whole. Their studio exemplifies the power of hybrid creativity, where the integration of diverse elements forms a distinct design language that is both reflective and forward-thinking.