Interview with Kezia Age

I grew up in a retail environment where my mom owned a small toy store that sold many things that made children happy. This inspired me to be a retail designer, bringing back those warm memories through simple and minimal designs.

Ever since I was young, I've wanted to be a retail designer. I love the idea of making people happy, changing perspective, and improving their lives through design. That's what inspires me to pursue this career.

I design elements in the retail industry, such as product displays, restaurant plates, lamp, and other details that directly interact with the user. I'm excited about the prospect of creating even more of these products in the future.

I think it's important not to focus too much on making a huge amount of money from the designs you create, but rather to focus on improving the quality and impact of your designs.

A good designer creates functional and visually appealing solutions, while a great designer deeply understands the user's needs, innovates, and leaves a lasting impact with their work.

For me, it's simple. If the design moves people towards a positive way of life and improves their quality of life, I consider it a good design.

Good design enhances experiences, solves problems effectively, and creates meaningful connections. It's an investment that improves efficiency, competitiveness, and brand perception, ultimately enriching lives and shaping a better future for everyone.

If I could turn back time, I'd like to redesign my mom's toy store. While the products are good, but due to a lack of design knowledge, they weren't represented in the best way. However, it's a lesson learned, and I'll strive to do my best for my clients.

Creating an inclusive retail design where everyone feels welcome and valued. It's about accessibility, diversity, and fostering a sense of belonging for all customers, with a unique blend of art and technology.

My secret ingredient for success in retail design is understanding the user. It enables me to create experiences that resonate and drive success for the brand.

I am into parametric, minimalist, and poetic design. The designs of Zaha Hadid, Tadao Ando, and Carlo Scarpa influence me the most.

Tadao Ando's Church of the Light captivates me for its minimalistic yet profoundly poetic nature. Its play of light and shadow evokes introspection and touches the heart, creating a space of spiritual contemplation and humility.

I think the design of the Ojiro Official Store stands out as my significant achievement. It represents a retail food store that I meticulously crafted with the intention of welcoming individuals from all economic backgrounds.

To improve as a designer, dedicate time to learning, seek feedback, stay curious, network, embrace failure, and learn from mistakes.

If not design, I might have pursued writing or philosophy. Both offer ways to explore human nature deeply. Through writing, I could share resonant stories, while philosophy allows pondering life's big questions. Yet, understanding people would remain central to my pursuits.

For me, design is a tool of communication to express ideas. It is a medium that can explain concepts and touch human emotions without words, connecting generation to generation.

Firstly, my mom has been my greatest supporter, offering unwavering encouragement and belief in my abilities. Secondly, Giuseppina, one of my university lecturers has played a pivotal role during challenging times, providing guidance as I've grown as a designer.

I was diagnosed with hearing loss in my 20s, and it pushed me to rely on design to communicate. I believe that experience has greatly contributed to shaping me into a great designer.

I faced obstacles such as self-doubt, mastering design tools, and effectively communicating ideas. Overcoming these challenges required perseverance and continuous learning.

Designers should present their work clearly and compellingly, showcasing their design process, key features, and how the design meets the needs of the user. Visual aids and effective communication are key.

Recently, I have been collaborating with some food and beverage brands, developing product displays that combine food art with 3D printing technology.

My ultimate aspiration as a retail product designer is to craft experiences that resonate profoundly with individuals, touching the depths of their emotions and perceptions.

People expect innovative solutions, exceptional creativity, and a commitment to excellence in every aspect of my work. They also hope that my designs will be competitive with other retail brands, setting new standards and leaving a lasting impression in the industry.

I think design contributes to a better society by addressing challenges, enhancing experiences, and promoting inclusivity. It inspires positive change, fosters social equality and sustainability.

Recently, I have been collaborating with some food and beverage brands, developing product displays that combine food art with 3D printing technology.

My design of the Ojiro Official Store satisfies me greatly. It symbolizes a retail food establishment I meticulously created with the aim of accommodating people from varying economic backgrounds.

I'd like to see the design industry blend technology with tradition and inject a personal touch into designs. This combination has the potential to revolutionize the design industry, offering innovative solutions while preserving the authenticity and human connection that are essential to meaningful design experiences.

I believe the design field is heading towards a future where sustainability, inclusivity, and innovation. We'll see a greater emphasis on eco-friendly practices, user-centered design, and the integration of technology to create seamless and meaningful experiences.

It depends on the project. In the retail industry, four months or less is typical for completing one project.

In the design process, I usually start with analysing the problem, conduct research on the design, and then brainstorm to find the best solution, considering all aspects of the design. Afterward, I begin creating mock-up designs to ensure they work well and can be produced in real life.

My motto is “Designing for Impact, Lasting Impressions."

I think it's a dynamic interplay between design and trends. Designers often anticipate and shape trends through their innovative creations, pushing boundaries and introducing new concepts. At the same time, trends emerge from societal, cultural, and technological shifts, influencing the direction of design. Ultimately, it's a symbiotic relationship where design both sets and responds to trends, constantly evolving in tandem with the world around us.

Technology, including advanced software tools and 3D printing, enhances creativity, efficiency, and collaboration in my design process.

I use mostly 3D modelling software and 3D printer.

Color, materials, and ambient elements play crucial roles in design, influencing the mood, atmosphere, and functionality of a space or product. The careful selection of colors can evoke emotions, convey brand identity, and guide user experiences. Ambient factors such as lighting, sound, and temperature contribute to the overall sensory experience, shaping how people perceive and interact with their surroundings.

The story behind my design, the thought process behind specific choices, and how the design aims to address their needs and solve a specific issue.

Encountering a new great design or product ignites a sense of wonder and curiosity within me. I find myself captivated by the creativity and ingenuity behind its conception, and I'm eager to delve deeper into its intricacies.

My ideal design partner is someone who shares my passion for innovation and collaboration. I firmly believe in the value of co-design, where diverse perspectives come together to create impactful solutions.

My mentors, colleagues, and clients have had the most influence on my design, shaping my approach and pushing me to think creatively and critically.

Emotional Design by Don Norman.

I developed my skills as designer through education, hands-on experience, continuous learning, and mentorship.

I would love to meet design visionaries and philosopher like Zaha Hadid and Aristotle, regardless of time and space, to discuss their insights and experiences.

Receiving awards and recognition is humbling, validating the effort I've put into my work. While fame brings opportunities, it also comes with challenges, such as managing expectations and balancing personal and professional life. Nonetheless, I'm grateful for the platform it provides to inspire others through design.

My favorite color are black and white, my preferred place is amidst nature, sushi is my go-to food for its organized presentation, and spring is my favorite season. I cherish the tranquility of nature, while Netflix is my preferred brand with its ability to transport us to new worlds and tell captivating stories with each click of the remote.

As a designer, I often deal with requests for creative solutions. One memorable occasion was when a woman asked me to design a space-frame dress to make her look thinner at her wedding party. It was certainly a creative challenge, blending fashion with structural engineering to achieve the perfect look.

Tackling new challenges, unleashing creativity, and seeing ideas come to life. I motivate myself by setting clear goals, staying curious, and surrounding myself with a supportive community.

It wasn't obvious at all. My childhood aspirations were simply to create things that made people happy. It was only as I grew older and discovered my passion for design that I realized the potential to turn that aspiration into a career.

Predicting the future is always a challenge, but I envision a world where technological advancements continue to shape every aspect of our lives. From AI and robotics to sustainable innovations, humanity will likely face both opportunities and challenges. I believe that as long as we prioritize collaboration, empathy, and sustainability, we can create a future where everyone thrives.

I want to express my deep gratitude for your support and encouragement. My passion for design stems from a desire to make a positive impact and create meaningful design for people. Thank you.

I started to establish Duettones Design Lab in 2023. It is a design firm specializing in retail product and design. We pride ourselves on creating design that seamlessly blend emotion, spirituality, and wellbeing. Our design lab is committed in crafting a harmonious impact for surrounding environment. We believe in the transformative power of design to enrich lives, and we are dedicated to exceeding our clients' expectations through innovative and personalized solutions.

For me, design is a tool of communication to express ideas. It is a medium that can explain concepts and touch human emotions without words, connecting generation to generation.

I enjoy designing elements in the retail industry, such as product displays, restaurant plates, and other details that directly in contact with the user.

I am into parametric, minimalist, and poetic design. The designs of Zaha Hadid, Tadao Ando, and Carlo Scarpa influence me the most.

It was the store for a beverage company, which served as a valuable platform for me to gain experience and develop my skills as a retail designer.

I like 3D printing technology because it can make almost everything feasible with sustainable production materials, translating complicated concepts in a minimalistic manner.

In the first two hours after waking up, I feel the most creative, while I'm still in the midst of my dreams but conscious. That's when brilliant ideas come to me.

I grew up in Indonesia, where we prioritize togetherness in every aspect of life. I usually focus on how to connect people through my designs.

When I'm designing, I feel freedom, as I can communicate with my visual language to express the inexpressible.

Satisfied with the work, I am excited if the design truly resonates with the targeted user.

I think when it moves people and create impact, even just a simple thing.

For me, it's simple. If the design moves people towards a positive way of life and improves their quality of life, I consider it a good design.

As a retail designer, I believe I have a huge responsibility for every element I design. It can influence people positively or negatively through their unconscious actions. In terms of the environment, I can contribute to sustainability by using environmentally friendly materials.

The design field is evolving at a rapid pace. Technology will be at the heart of it, so incorporating personal touches that resonate with the user, culture, and tradition is important to give identity to our designs.

It was in September 2023 and maybe by the end of this year.

Nature and tradition are my best inspirations. I love observing people and thinking of what I can design to make everything more meaningful and better.

My style is minimalist, with elements inspired by nature's organic aesthetics. I enjoy studying philosophy; it greatly influences me and lends a poetic quality to my designs. My approach involves solving design problems in a poetic manner.

I was born in Indonesia, in a city with a bustling life, before I moved to a countryside with strong traditions and a very calm lifestyle. Those were truly great experiences where I could experience two different sides of culture. It greatly impacts my design preferences. I appreciate minimal or modern styles while incorporating elements of traditional culture.

We often collaborate with retail brands to design promotions for the brand or to communicate new products.

To achieve the best result, I suggest companies to choose the designer who best fits their brief because each designer has a different style to approach problems, especially in the retail industry. We strive to understand what the company wants from our design and create the best solution to address the brief.

In my design process, I usually analyze the problem, conduct research on the design, and then brainstorm to find the best solution, considering all aspects of the design. Afterward, I begin creating mock-up designs to ensure they work well and can be produced in real life.

My fountain pen, watercolor book, a yellow mug, cutter, and 3D Printing machine.

After waking up, I usually go to my home office to sketch some designs, spending about two hours solving yesterday's problems. Then, I exercise and have breakfast while socializing with people. During the afternoon, I typically have meetings and execute design ideas. In the evening, I have a habit of reading books on different topics and catching up on the latest news to broaden my knowledge.

I think it's important not to focus too much on making a huge amount of money from the designs you create, but rather to focus on improving the quality and impact of your designs.

Being a designer is challenging. On the positive side, it's fun; it feels like I'm working in my playground every day. However, on the negative side, sometimes I don’t realize that I am too focused on my own world. Being imaginative and understanding reality is important to prevent making unimportant decisions.

As a retail designer, my "golden rule" is to create a memorable context behind a product in a minimal way that communicates to the user and aligns with the brand identity.

The main skill, I believe, is understanding the user and the ability to find feasible solutions to every design problem.

During designing, I like to use a fountain pen and paper to sketch before utilizing computer software technology and 3D printing.

In the morning, I engage in a creative brainstorming session, allowing my mind to explore various ideas and possibilities. This is a time of unbridled creativity, where I let my imagination roam freely, jotting down concepts and sketches as they flow. As the day progresses into the afternoon, I transition into the execution phase, bringing those ideas to life with precision and detail. This is where the real work begins, as I meticulously refine and implement the designs, ensuring they meet the vision and objectives set forth during the brainstorming session earlier in the day.

It depends on the project. In the retail industry, four months or less is typical for completing one project.

How can I find inspiration and creative solution of a problem?

After graduating from my Bachelor of Architecture, I worked with some property investors. That was the most important job experience where I learned about aligning great ideas with business.

Most of them are retail business owners and property owners.

I enjoy designing elements in retail design because it involves direct contact with the user.

Continuing my practice as a retail designer, crafting fresh designs to tackle contemporary issues and expanding my industry expertise for a more profound influence.

I collaborate with my team. I typically designing the main concept and brainstorming with my team for further development and production.

Recently, we have been developing product display designs for food and beverage brands, combining food art with 3D printing technology.

You can reach us through our Instagram official account: @duettones_designlab or e-mail.

I think that’s enough. Thank you for your time.