“It is a process of letting others into your private zone and understanding other people’s emotions. Dare to Feel encourages you to use your senses and enter the world of intimacy,” says Alicja Czop, Principal Designer and Founder of Dare Design Studio.
When it comes to good product design, what is your take?
I think designers hold great power – we are in charge of creating spaces and objects for everyday use, across different environments and for diverse audiences. Design shouldn’t only be beautiful and practical; it should bring something deeper to the user. My goal is always to touch on subjects that intrigue and move me emotionally. That’s why my collection Dare to Feel, which I presented during Salone Satellite, explores emotional intimacy and how we can create safe spaces to build stronger bonds with one another.
Photo Courtesy: Kendrick Dettmers
What led you to be a designer in the first place?
I never thought I would be a designer. As a kid, I loved dancing and singing and imagined a career in that world. A year before choosing my university, my father saw my sketches and suggested I apply to the Fine Arts Academy. At first, I wasn’t sure, but the idea grew on me. After months of hard work and preparation, I got in – and within a week of starting, I knew design was my future. Over the years, it has become not just my profession but my passion.
Photo Courtesy: Kendrick Dettmers
As a Polish designer, what is your take on global design?
It’s not easy to define. I began my design journey in Poland but have continued it in the Netherlands since 2016. Even while living abroad, I try to represent my roots – by producing my work in Poland, using Polish materials, and collaborating with local craftsmen. I also feel a deep connection to Polish heritage and art history, which often influence my projects.
How does the world perceive Polish design?
We have a small but brilliant representation on the global design stage – designers like Tomek Regalia and Oskar Zięta have done remarkable work. There’s a lot of emerging talent in Poland, and I hope more young designers soon get a chance to present their creativity internationally.
Photo Courtesy: Kendrick Dettmers
What was your experience at Salone Satellite like?
It was incredible! We’d all been waiting three years for the event, and you could feel the excitement in the air. I arrived in Milan open to new influences and opportunities. I met wonderful people whose enthusiasm and positivity inspired me to keep pursuing my design dreams.
Photo Courtesy: Kendrick Dettmers
Can you tell us about the products you exhibited?
Of course! Working with a group of Millennials gave me insight into how technology affects intimacy and helped me understand my own emotional responses. The process became a learning journey about emotions and human needs, grounded in real stories.
Intimacy is a journey of self-discovery – a process of letting others into your private space and understanding their emotions. It’s strongly connected to touch and smell. Dare to Feel was designed to strengthen real-world relationships through these senses.
The low-seat sofa offers a shared space for connection or solitude when split into two armchairs. Its velvet upholstery enhances the tactile experience, while walnut wood adds warmth and a natural touch. Responding to Millennials’ emphasis on scent and light, I designed a glass light object that releases aroma as its temperature rises – evoking memories or creating new ones. Together, the materials, colours, and forms of these pieces create an atmosphere that encourages openness, comfort, and emotional safety.
Photo Courtesy: Alicja Czop
What’s next for you?
The Dare to Feel project reflects exactly the kind of design I want to pursue – emotionally engaging, socially aware, and thought-provoking. I want my work to trigger reflection and conversation. Alongside that, I’m open to collaborating with individuals and companies. I can’t wait to see what the future holds!
Connect Online: www.daredesign-studio.com
