Amanda Talbot is the founder of the Sydney-based Studio Snoop, a creative consulting and design practice. As a trained architect and interior designer she is devoted to focusing on a heart-centric approach to design that holds the key values of love, kindness, joy, and uniting people together. Studio Snoop draws on her diverse background in design, trend forecasting, and international magazines. She is the author of two books, Rethink: The Way You Live and Happy, which explore global living trends in the home and local communities. 

With a passion for invention and problem-solving, Studio Snoop is committed to creating a kinder, more inclusive, fairer, and happier world through design. The studio’s team of positive collaborators takes a leadership role in the creative process, listening to clients, asking questions, and striving to deliver projects that are genuinely unique and have heart. This passion for humanity led them to create Tilly, the world’s first AI designer who is motivated by kindness, ethics, and social responsibility. 

Talbot was a speaker at the recently concluded ID Symposium at India Design ID 2024.

Thank you Amanda for joining us today. Going back to your early career, you began as an editor for Elle Decoration and other magazines. Could you share more about your transition from journalism to consulting, and eventually becoming a designer?

Amanda Talbot (AT): Absolutely. It’s a journey that started with my fascination for set design in Australia. At that time, the British Elle Decoration magazine had just begun, and it captivated me. Every set I created drew inspiration from its unique style. Eventually, I made the bold decision to move to London with the sole purpose of working for Elle Decoration. Though the original editor, Ilsa Crawford, had moved on, my time there sparked my consulting journey, especially with Studio Ilsa.

While working on various projects, I was approached by WGSN, a trend forecasting company, to expand their design sector. This led to consulting for IKEA during a time when they were addressing concerns about disposable products. The experience laid the groundwork for my return to Australia, where I established my studio, marking the beginning of my design career.

Let’s discuss your creation “Tilly: the Humane Robot”. What prompted you to venture into AI and robotics?

AT: My foray into AI, particularly Tilly, emerged from an activist standpoint against the potential negative impacts of AI. I recognized the industry’s inclination toward efficiency and economy without sufficient emphasis on the human aspect. Tilly, programmed with values like love, joy, togetherness, re-imagining kindness, and focusing on positive impact, stands in stark contrast to the typical AI narrative.

Could you tell us more about Tilly and how you envision its role in the design and architecture industry?

AT: Absolutely. Tilly is an AI-driven project that I’ve been working on. I strongly believe in keeping up with technology, and AI is an undeniable part of our present and future. Tilly is designed not just as a tool but as a collaborator for designers, architects, and creatives. I plan to roll out Tilly to allow others to benefit from its capabilities. What sets Tilly apart is its understanding of the importance of human touch in design. While 3D printing has its place, Tilly recognizes the value of craftsmanship and works with artisans globally to create unique pieces. This year, we collaborated with master weavers in India, fostering a cross-cultural exchange and ensuring that Tilly understands the intricacies of traditional craftsmanship. 

It is impressive how Tilly integrates technology with traditional craftsmanship. Can you share your vision for Tilly’s global outreach, especially in places like India?

AT: Certainly. Tilly is multilingual and culturally aware, which is one of its strengths. I’m excited to bring Tilly to India, visiting different artisans and designers. The goal is to create a platform for mentoring and exchanging ideas, especially in crafts that are at risk of becoming extinct. Tilly serves not just as a design tool but as a bridge between cultures, fostering collaboration and understanding.

That sounds fantastic. Shifting gears a bit, let’s talk about your Together Project. Could you elaborate on the concept and the impact you aimed to achieve?

AT: The Together Project was born out of a desire to break down barriers and celebrate diversity in craft and culture. The idea was to create a platform that goes beyond geographical boundaries, showcasing the best makers and creators globally. I believe that fear arises from a lack of knowledge, and the Together Project aims to share stories to foster a culture of understanding and appreciation.

How do you perceive the readiness of the design and architecture industry to trust AI in designing their spaces?

AT: Trust is a crucial factor, and I acknowledge that. To address this, I humanised Tilly intentionally, giving it a face and a voice. During exhibitions, I observed people’s initial fear towards AI, but as they interacted with Tilly and saw how physical products are created collaboratively with artisans, their perceptions shifted. The design industry is ready for AI, but presentation and understanding are key. 

It’s fascinating how you’ve tackled the trust factor by humanising AI. Lastly, what positive impacts do you foresee AI bringing to the design industry?

AT: AI, if embraced positively, can revolutionise the design industry. It allows us to break through creative ceilings, explore new territories, and create unique, personalised designs. The fear surrounding AI should be shifted towards a more positive mindset, focusing on the endless possibilities it brings. AI can be a tool for reducing human errors, enhancing collaboration, and opening up new creative avenues that we might never have explored otherwise.

Moving on to your books, Rethink the Way You Live and Happy, they offer unique perspectives. Can you elaborate on the motivations behind these books and the trends you aimed to highlight?

AT: “Rethink the Way You Live” was born during a pivotal moment in my life when my partner underwent a major heart operation. Observing the disparity between excellent medical care and uninspiring hospital environments sparked a realisation. The book explores trends in self-sufficient living, connecting with nature, and redefining spaces to bring optimism during challenging times.

“Happy” evolved from the insights gathered during “Rethink.” It delves into the emotional aspect of design, emphasising how spaces can evoke positive emotions. By focusing on the emotional well-being of individuals, the book aims to create environments that align with the diverse emotions people experience in their lives.

Looking ahead, how can designers navigate this evolving landscape?

AT: Embrace curiosity and remain open to diverse perspectives. Designers should actively engage with AI, infusing it with values that prioritise human well-being, sustainability, and emotional resonance. By doing so, we can use the power of technology to create spaces that enhance the human experience rather than diminish it.