Credit Image above: Matthieu Barani
On September 9, 2025, we launched the very first Craftwork Coffee Talk in France, a series of conversations exploring the intersections of craft, design, and innovation. The event was organized by Villette Makerz in collaboration with Campus MaNa.
For this opening talk, we were joined by Studio Bold Design (William Boujon & Julien Benayoun – Instagram account), a duo known for their experimental approach to objects, furniture, and spaces. Their practice, rooted in social and environmental concerns, has increasingly integrated 3D printing technologies into traditional design processes.
Tradition Meets Innovation
The discussion centered on what happens when craftsmanship meets digital fabrication. 3D printing is not here to replace the artisan’s hand, but to complement it—enabling faster prototyping, new forms, and even the possibility of repairing or reproducing parts that might otherwise be lost.
Sustainability at the Core
A recurring theme was sustainability. What materials should we use? How do we balance innovation with ecological responsibility? From recycled plastics to distributed, local production, the conversation emphasized the need to design with circularity, durability, and reusability in mind.
Collaboration Across Disciplines
Another strong idea was collaboration. Craft evolves at its best when designers, artisans, engineers, and educators work side by side. Residencies, workshops, and labs create fertile ground for experimentation—bringing together perspectives that spark unexpected innovation.
Looking Ahead
The speakers also looked to the future: the careful integration of AI into design processes, the opportunities of open-source models, and the value of low-tech solutions alongside high-tech ones. The conclusion was clear: the future of craft will be hybrid, sustainable, and collaborative.
