Architerior had the chance to talk to Hamburg based 3D & textile designer Katharina Linke of K.I.L DESIGN @k.i.l_design, whose fluid designs blur the boundaries between art and function. Rooted in a childhood shaped by the sea and inspired by her parents’ work as marine biologists, Linke’s practice channels organic forms, chrome-like surfaces, and nature-driven structures into diverse, mixed-media creations. From self-sewn textiles and 3D-printed objects to screen-printed garments and jewelry crafted from vintage beads, her work is defined by experimentation, material play, and a commitment to sustainability — all united by a signature aesthetic she describes in three words: diverse, aesthetic, and fluid.
Katharina, how did you find your way into the field of design?
The origin of my creativity can be traced back to my parents’ professions, as they both work as marine biologists. As a result, even as a small child, I always had a connection to the sea-inspired shapes and motifs that can be found in my designs.
Was education in art a part of your journey to become a designer?
My training as an interior decorator and my studies in textile design have had a major influence on my work, specifically in terms of my versatility in working with materials and different structures, and designing and integrating these into various forms and objects.
What techniques do you mainly use in your work?
I love combining and experimenting with different materials. For example, I design and sew the fabric for my bags myself. In addition to 3D interiors, I also design other products such as bags and accessories using a 3D printer. I also make shirts using a special screen printing process. I create my jewelry using vintage beads, among other things, breathing new life into them. My wall installations consist of draped fabric, spray paint, and accents of 3D design. Although I use a variety of techniques, it is important to me that my style runs like a common thread through my entire collection.
How would you define your design style?
- Diverse and mixed media
- Playing with texture and material, a mix of art and design
- Organic shapes and patterns
- Inspiration from objects and structures found in nature
- Awareness of sustainability
Has your style or technique changed over time?
The materials have changed over the years, but I have always remained true to my style.
If you had to summarize your design in three words, what would they be?
Diverse, aesthetic, and fluid.
Which artists, designers or styles have inspired you?
Iris van Herpen as a fashion designer who loves to play with materials and technology.
How do other people view your work, what are their reactions and thoughts?
As a first reaction to my 3D products, I am always asked enthusiastically whether it is shiny fabric.
When starting on a new design piece, what goes through your head? How does your planning and creation process look like?
I start with analog sketches and creatively develop the shapes in my head. During the process, the respective designs are then refined, from the selection of materials to the finished product.
What are you working on right now?
I am currently experimenting with spatial objects such as 3D chessboards, furniture, side tables, and combinations of different materials such as aluminum.
How did Covid-19 affect you as an designer?
That I could make even better use of the time in the studio to express my creativity.
Where do you find inspiration for your creative work?
I usually find my inspiration in nature, especially by and in the sea. I absorb shapes and structures and translate them into my designs.
Is there any design piece that you’ve created that is extra significant to you?
It is not a specific work of art or design that describes me. Rather, it is experimenting with “fluid-looking” chrome-colored designs.
How do you define “good” art or design?
There is no such thing as a “good” or “bad” design for me. For me, the decisive factor is whether it is a complete design for me as a designer, one with which I can identify.
What are the best things about being a designer?
The connection and exchange with other designers, as well as direct customer contact and the freedom to be your own boss.
What are the worst things about being a designer?
Being your own boss, because you have a high level of responsibility and sometimes reach your own limits.
What does it mean to you to be able to work with design?
It means that I can give free rein to my creativity without feeling restricted. It’s important to me that I don’t limit myself to one product, but can create my designs in different ways and give free rein to my creativity.
In ten years time, where do you see yourself and your creative work?
I would love to be able to exhibit my designs in other countries and locations besides Sweden and Germany. I also hope that in ten years’ time, I will still enjoy my work as much as I do now.
If you could go back to the beginning of your design career, what advice would you give yourself?
That setbacks are also part of business and that I should continue to believe in my designs and products despite them.
Katharina’s work is available at her website www.kil-design.de & some 3D designs can be bought via Cay Collective or Way Gallery.
Check out more art & design interviews on Architerior