Launched just two years ago, the L'OEil de KO gallery, the decorative counterpart to Studio KO, the well-known architecture firm founded by Karl Fournier and Olivier Marty, continues to inspire us with its consistently discerning, unique, and poetic selection. On the occasion of its participation in the Wabi-Sabi Lab fair, from November 28 to December 2, 2024, Acumen had the privilege of meeting its artistic director, Nathalie Guihaumé.

An Aladdin's cave of a different kind. Nestled in the heart of the 10th arrondissement, the Studio KO offices house a truly unique gallery. Called L'Œil de KO (The Eye of KO), it was launched two years ago. At its helm is artistic director Nathalie Guihaumé. " Initially, I was doing small decorating projects for Studio KO, selecting vases, tableware, and so on. At the time, I already enjoyed working with artisans. Karl, for his part, was also passionate about objects; he loved browsing flea markets. And it was quite natural that he suggested I open an online gallery, L'Œil de KO. "

Selecting the various pieces, which range from decorative items to pure art, the artistic director insists she doesn't have a set of criteria or specifications for curating her online gallery. " Karl and I work on a gut feeling," she says, referring to the two women with whom she collaborates. She does, however, admit to focusing on "powerful pieces that have a strong material presence ."

“ When our customers discover our various objects online, they want to see them, to touch them. ” And with good reason: it’s true that Studio KO has a taste for the unique. Proof of this can be seen in Talia Mukmel’s Terra Cotta creations, made of sand and flour then baked in a macrame basket, or in the brass and silver bead smoking set by Zoé Mohm. The most unsettling creation is undoubtedly Thibault Philip’s Viscère service, designed from a mold of animal organs.

In addition to discovering striking works, Studio KO supports certain talents through collaborations. The latest is with Maison Pelletier Ferruel, which produces a range of organically shaped glass pieces. " They use the same technique as in Murano; it's truly magnificent, each piece is unique. " These collaborations involve the artistic director offering suggestions and guidance. For example, it was after a meeting with jeweler Chloé Valorso that the astonishing crab-shaped candlesticks and knife rests were created. Zoé Mohm also designed the elegant cork stopper caps through a collaboration.

A poetic and joyful decorum, which perfectly complements the universe of Studio KO, which last month signed its first line of rugs, "Echo", for the Galerie Diurne.

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