This gap was the subject of an exhibition at the Fuorisalone (recently re-proposed at London Design Week): The Blond Laboratory. We had Blond, the strategic design studio that curated it, founded by James Melia, tell us about it.

Challenging AI on Creativity. Why?

Blond: “Although AI is a valuable tool for design efficiency, it should not replace genuine, tangible inspiration. AI helps designers improve the design process, but we caution against relying solely on it for inspiration (which unfortunately happens more and more at all levels), as this could lead to revisions of the already seen or impractical realizations. Furthermore, this accelerated modus operandi removes many vital steps, to name a few: sustainability, cultural climate or issues related to production and materials.”

Why is it important to talk about these issues now?

Blond: “Our concerns revolve around the widespread tendency to draw inspiration from the same online pool (not just AI but also the Internet in general), stifling originality. Designers should shape the future responsibly, considering both human needs and the evolving technological landscape. Looking back at physical historical objects helps us ensure that we are moving in the right direction, learning from the past to create a better future.”

What was The Blond Laboratory about?

Blond: “It’s a group show with 7 designers (list available below, ed.) each of whom was given an object – things that were out of use, found in attics or thrift shops – to inspire them to create a new one.”

Why did you choose out of use objects?

Blond: “Objects that are no longer in production often use old manufacturing processes and limited materials, all with different characteristics, triggering unique ideas that go beyond the conventional, mass-produced products we see every day. They are essentially tools for thinking and encouraged designers to draw inspiration from less familiar materials, processes, shapes, functions, which led to different interpretations and outcomes.”

Why do designers always use analogies?

Blond: “We have a group, Blond Artefact, that exists for the sole purpose of collecting a range of objects that can inspire us in many ways; whether it’s form, function, manufacturing process, color or texture; and to stimulate thought and conversation. The kind of short circuits that are created are always interesting. The object that inspired the James Melia designed lamp was a vintage wooden basket, made by weaving rope through flat sheets of wood that provide structural integrity. In this case, the analogy was celebrating the construction of the object and had nothing to do with the form.”