OUGD502 Studio Brief 1 | Blok Design Interview

1) What separates Blok Design from other studios not only in Toronto but around the world? 

"We are passionate believers in the possibility of the impossible...which truly means idealist at heart. This idealism has guided us into unfamiliar territories where we usually learn what nobody else can tell us. We enjoy questioning and challenging preconceptions, so our way to solving problems is truly rethinking the question. We follow our intuition and believe in non linearity. All this is intrinsic to who we are as people and as a studio."

2) How does being in Toronto influence the work that the studio produces?

"We are always influenced by our context and our environment, but  what really influences our studio is the life stories each of us brings as individuals. We like having people from around the world with diverse backgrounds at blok because it brings very different perspectives into play simultaneously. This is what really shapes the work we do."

3) With Toronto’s creative scene really booming at the moment, from the huge street photography community to fashion to a widely recognised ‘Toronto sound’, how are you able to separate yourself from the crowd and stay relevant in such a busy and diverse industry? 

"We never think about the others in the industry or the media. We do what we believe is true to us and what is authentic for the project. And then.. we do not compromise."

4) Has Blok ever thought about relocating or opening another studio in a different city? If so/not, why?

"Blok relocated to Mexico city when I moved there. It was small enough that wherever I went it would simply have to come with me. "The nomadic blok."9 years later I moved back to toronto and we opened again. Every transition was an opportunity to rethink ourselves and what we stand for."

5) I see you have a very long client list, how do you determine what is worth doing or particularly suited to Blok’s design process?

"Many times it is pure intuition. we know form the first meeting if our ideas are aligned, if there is possibilities for exploration and if the project has the opportunity to challenge us.We look for projects that have one ended questions. Where the paths open to other paths versus leading us directly to a single place. This is the place we like to work in. the juxtaposition of ideas, of ambiguity of possibility. lines thinking takes you to the same place."

6) How does the relationship with clients differ now compared to when Blok was in its early stages or just lesser-known?

"Our work has always spoken for us. Clients see that we provide a strong outcome and resolution for their proposed design issue and if we both feel that our ideas can intertwine and work with each other, then we are able to take on the project. The only difference is now that potential clients can see more of our work as we keep growing."

7) Do Blok provide internships/placements? If so, how does one apply?

"Send your info, your bio and we take it from there!
Best of luck!"