Studio Practice

Founded in 2020, Practice is a Seoul-based studio that seamlessly merges art and design across a wide range of disciplines, including spatial design, exhibitions, art direction, installations, furniture, objects, and material experimentation. We sat down at their studio in Seoul to talk about projects and commisions.

Actually, it started more organically. I was focused on functional objects, and my partner was an architect. We met through an exhibition project where we were introduced and found common ground. He was looking for someone to collaborate on a project during that time, so we worked together. Then, more clients started approaching us for new projects. Over two years, it naturally grew into something more structured.

Exactly. It started as informal teamwork. But as projects came in, we decided to formalize our studio. My first exhibition as an artist also became the studio's first major exhibition. We both trained in architecture and interior design, so creating exhibition spaces felt like a natural extension of our skills.

I started as an architectural designer, but architecture is a slow process. It takes years to see a project come to life, and I’m impatient! I wanted to design something I could see completed much faster. Initially, I focused on designing spaces for other creatives to showcase their work. But as we built this community of artists and designers, it became more about collaboration and less about working in isolation.

It’s a mix of things—a design studio, an artist’s workshop, and a creative consultancy. Depending on the project, we might design interiors, curate exhibitions, or create artistic installations. It’s hard to pin down because our approach adapts to the project at hand. That fluidity is part of our identity.

We have a system. Every project blends our philosophies, whether it’s a retail space or an art installation. For example, we might design a shop that incorporates functional art pieces. The client gets a unique environment, and we get to experiment creatively. It’s all about balance.

Absolutely. Seoul’s retail scene has evolved a lot in the past few years. Brands are competing to offer better physical experiences, and that’s where we come in. We help create spaces that go beyond just selling products—they tell a story, evoke emotions, and engage customers on a deeper level.

Trust is key. Many clients initially approach us for interior design, but as we build relationships, they see the value in incorporating our artistic vision. Some even collect our work as part of the project. It’s a collaborative process where the line between design and art blurs.

It’s about creating harmony. We design spaces where art and function coexist without overshadowing each other. For example, a chair in a retail shop might be functional, but its design also contributes to the space’s narrative.

Those materials are versatile and easy to work with, which suits our process. They’re also inherently modern and sharp, which aligns with our aesthetic. We often pair them with other textures to create contrast and depth. The industrial roots of Seoul also play a role—materials like steel are as natural here as wood is in Europe.

Yes, almost entirely. Seoul has a dense network of small factories and craftsmen, which makes it easy to prototype and produce locally. We often work directly with them, which creates a close, almost familial relationship. It’s very different from the corporate, large-scale production models in Europe.

Definitely. The proximity to skilled craftsmen and small-scale production allows us to experiment and iterate quickly. It’s a huge advantage for creating unique, high-quality pieces.

We’re working on a few things, including a personal exhibition in Seoul and a new concept for a retail space here in Seoul. We’re also exploring collaborations with international brands to bring more of our work to Europe. It’s an exciting time!