Kezia Karin

Kezia Karin, Principal of KEZIAKARIN Studio and the proud recipient of the Young Designer of the Year award at the APSDA Awards 2023, is emerging as a formidable presence in Indonesia’s interior design landscape. With a career trajectory marked by rapid advancement, Kezia’s strong vision and unwavering commitment to excellence are noteworthy. Her dynamic approach to design captivates, positioning her as a force to reckon with in the field and a catalyst for impactful change in Indonesia’s interior design scene. Asia Designers Directory connects with Kezia to find out about her influences and principles towards design.

Could you elaborate on your design philosophy and how it influences your work? What core principles do you consistently apply in your designs?

I think designers have to be inherently adventurous and always want to explore new possibilities. If I were a designer who kept repeating herself in her work, I would probably not be where I am today. In my opinion, each project is a unique journey, and the adventure of creating something new is what drives me as a designer. While I don’t adhere to a fixed design philosophy, I always ensure that every creation has a compelling story and a strong conceptual foundation. It’s about more than just aesthetics or function; it’s about creating narratives that draw inspiration from various sources, whether it’s spatial concepts, Indonesia’s cultural influences, personal experiences, or just about anything. Ultimately, the goal is to craft designs that resonate and are meaningful.

What are the key factors you consider when creating a new interior design concept?

When developing a new interior design concept, my primary focus is on understanding the client’s needs and project requirements outlined in the brief. I then explore avenues for innovation, considering how to infuse the project with fresh ideas and perspectives. These considerations guide my approach to each new project, ensuring that I deliver designs that not only meet the client’s expectations but also push boundaries and introduce novel elements into the space.

With nearly 20 years of experience in the industry, how do you feel you have evolved as an interior designer? Can you share any significant turning points or pivotal moments in your career?

I believe it’s necessary to evolve and change to avoid becoming obsolete, especially in a fast-changing environment. As a designer, I’ve observed significant changes in myself over the years, particularly in terms of how I have become calmer as I age. And this necessarily shows up in my designs or design line. Similarly, design trends have shifted towards subtlety, though still retaining elements of layering, patterns, and textures. Looking back, I feel that the turning point in my career was the 2019 LV project – a significant project that marks a pivotal moment of career growth and transformation.

Could you tell us about your recent participation in the APSDA 2023 awards and the project that earned recognition? What does this achievement mean to you and your team?

We were honoured to receive three prestigious awards in the APSDA 2023 Awards, namely Young Designer of the Year, a gold medal for Louis Vuitton Savoir Faire Jakarta 2021, and a bronze medal for a residential project in Jakarta. Louis Vuitton Savoir Faire was particularly challenging, spanning concept development, design execution, and construction.

Despite the difficulties, the results surpassed expectations. Our residential project in Jakarta exemplifies our commitment to high-end design and collaboration with discerning clients. The unique style, tailored specifically to the client’s taste, sets it apart in Jakarta’s landscape. From layout to furnishings and artwork selection, every aspect was carefully considered to create a truly bespoke living space.