26.02.25, 20:00, Design X Play

Theo De Meyer (BE), moderated by Geert Belpaeme (BE)

Can the focus on "play" in design and architecture change the way we experience objects and spaces? In this Design Dialogue, Ghent-based architect Theo De Meyer invites you to explore the potential of play in architecture and design. Under the title “State of Play” he collaborates with Stefanie Everaert to examine the role of play in the design process. Together, they investigate how play uniquely combines form, function, and meaning. Their approach goes beyond pure amusement; the element of play fosters creativity and makes design both accessible and meaningful.

During his lecture, Theo De Meyer shares his vision on the intersection of play and design. How does "play" influence the interaction between people and their surroundings? How can it inspire designers to think beyond conventions? Drawing on his expertise and practical experience, De Meyer sheds light on how such an approach not only leads to innovative solutions but also contributes to the creation of spaces and objects that resonate with a wide audience. With play as a starting point, creative boundaries are pushed, bridging functionality, aesthetics, and human experience.

Theo De Meyer will also engage in conversation with artistic researcher and KASK & Conservatorium lecturer Geert Belpaeme, who uses the practice of the actor as a basis for a broader exploration of play and the formation of meaning in our existence.

Speakers

Architect Theo De Meyer (BE) lives and works in Ghent. De Meyer alternates between architecture, design and the arts, often reconciling the various disciplines in his projects. He plays with context and scale, interprets and transforms, creating new worlds from the act of building. In addition to his work as an architect, De Meyer is also teaching. Collaboration plays an important role in his cross-disciplinary practice. He and Stefanie Everaert (Doorzon Interieur Architecten) together represent the core of the modular collective Stand Van Zaken (‘State of Play’). They create furniture and architecture in collaboration with specialists in various fields. Driven by the shared enthusiasm of its members, Stand van Zaken supports the creation and development of objects, buildings and ideas.

Geert Belpaeme (BE) is a theater maker and performer. He graduated in 2010 from the drama program at KASK & Conservatorium, where he has since been teaching and conducting research. His work focuses on the power and relevance of clowning as a contemporary practice. His artistic language combines playfulness with philosophical rigor in performances that aim to challenge the dominant narratives of our time. He has also recently written the essay ‘De speelse mens’ (The playful human), a philosophical exploration of playfulness in our existence.

Design Dialogues

Design Dialogues is a curated lecture series organized by the design department of KASK & Conservatorium and Design Museum Gent. Unique voices from the broad field of design are invited to reflect on the role, impact, and future of design in a changing world. Each lecture is a critical dialogue centered around a theme and concludes with an open discussion between the speaker and the audience. Our mission: to provide engaging perspectives that empower design students and enthusiasts to tackle the challenges of today and tomorrow.