Universal Design Studio discourse with Paul Gulati centering around narrative crafting, multi-sensory aesthetics, and the developmental trajectory of the firm.
In the realm of spatial design, Universal Design Studio, founded by Edward Barber and Jay Osgerby in 2001, has been making waves with its innovative approach to craft and storytelling. Over the past two decades, the studio has grown from a small operation based in one building to a more spread-out practice, specializing in interiors, architecture, exhibitions, and cultural projects[1].
The studio operates with a collaborative model, fostering an environment where diverse creative voices come together, emphasizing the relationship between objects, spaces, and people. This approach has enabled the studio to create experiences that elevate everyday interactions by blending design rigor with artistic exploration[1].
One such experience is the "Feel the Sound" exhibition currently on display at the Barbican Centre. This immersive exhibition, co-produced by MoN Takanawa: The Museum of Narratives, Tokyo, Japan, relies on sound, not just sight, for its spatial design[1]. The project led Universal Design Studio to research natural and overlooked materials, resulting in sound-insulated transitions and white noise to create an auditory palette cleanse[1].
Paul Gulati, Director of Universal Design Studio, has been with the practice for two decades. Gulati initially set up his own studio but began freelancing with Universal Design Studio around 2004 or 2005. He is one of three directors on the Universal side, alongside Carly Sweeney and Jason Holley[1].
The project "Feel the Sound" was originally pitched as a music show for 2025, but due to circumstances, it evolved into a more experimental exhibition, allowing for the testing of new approaches and materials[1]. The exhibition is designed to challenge the traditional boundaries of spatial design, pushing the limits of what can be achieved through a sensory experience.
The learnings from projects like "Feel the Sound" are intended to be fed back into Universal Design Studio's commercial work, ensuring that the studio's core values of intelligence, beauty, and transformation in design continue to shape their projects[1].
As "Feel the Sound" continues to captivate audiences at the Barbican Centre, Universal Design Studio's commitment to innovation, collaboration, and sensory exploration remains unwavering. The studio's evolution over the past two decades is a testament to their ability to adapt and grow, while staying true to their core values[1]. The exhibition will run until 31, providing visitors with an unforgettable sensory experience they won't find anywhere else.
[1] Source: Universal Design Studio's official website and various press releases.
Universal Design Studio's "Feel the Sound" exhibition, currently at the Barbican Centre, exemplifies their integration of interior-design concepts with a lifestyle focus, creating an immersive experience that transforms everyday sensory interactions. This project, a fusion of design rigor and artistic exploration, also showcases their dedication to home-and-garden projects, as the learnings from this sensory exploration are intended to be applied to their commercial work, upholding the studio's core values of intelligence, beauty, and transformation.
