Athanasios Babalis: Designing Through Clarity, Curiosity, and Collaboration

3 Questions for Athanasios Babalis

Q: In your view, what makes collaboration between a designer and a brand truly successful? What creates the “click” so both sides feel full ownership from brief to launch?

A: For me, a successful collaboration begins with clarity — clarity of communication, of goals, and of intent. The designer must listen deeply, not only to what the client says but also to what the brand stands for and aspires to become. When both sides share a clear understanding of the project’s purpose, a genuine dialogue can begin. Over time, this builds trust, empathy, and a shared sense of ownership. That’s when the process feels like true teamwork rather than a service relationship — when both the designer and the client are equally invested in the outcome.

“The Kappa table began as a simple experiment in deconstructing a cylinder.”

Q: How do you navigate design trends while maintaining a clear signature, and how did that approach lead to the distinctive central leg geometry of the Kappa table?

A: I’ve never been interested in maintaining a “signature” as a stylistic exercise. Every project has its own logic, context, and criteria for success — and those naturally lead to different formal outcomes. I see my role as reading those conditions with sensitivity and responding through exploration and making.

The Kappa table began as a simple experiment in deconstructing a cylinder. Through sketches and prototypes, the form evolved into a series of conical volumes that started to suggest motion — like a cape or the wings of a beetle. With continuous refinement, the base took on its final geometry. This process of playful experimentation — guided by curiosity rather than trends — is where I find real meaning and joy in design.

“I’ve never been interested in maintaining a ‘signature’ as a stylistic exercise. Every project has its own logic, context, and criteria for success.”

Q: How important are technological innovations in the furniture industry for you, how do you build on existing production know-how, and how do you introduce new methods and materials into your process?

A: My background in engineering has shaped how I approach design: I’m naturally drawn to the mechanics of how things are made. I’ve always had deep respect for the people who work in production — craftsmen, engineers, technicians — who solve problems every day with remarkable creativity. They have been some of my best teachers.

Technology is important to me not as a novelty but as a tool to expand what is possible with materials and manufacturing. I always begin by studying each client’s existing know-how and exploring how we can build on it — sometimes by introducing a new material or process, sometimes by refining what already works. The goal is to achieve something honest, efficient, and beautiful through a collaboration between design intent and production intelligence.

“Technology is important to me not as a novelty but as a tool to expand what is possible with materials and manufacturing.”

About KAPPA Collection

The KAPPA Collection by anesis is a sculptural exploration of balance, symmetry, and contemporary craftsmanship. Designed by industrial designer Athanasios Babalis, the collection is built around a distinct visual language defined by harmonious curves, refined geometry, and a sense of poised equilibrium. Each piece—whether the round or the new oval dining table—embodies a thoughtful dialogue between form, material, and functionality.

At the heart of the collection lies the signature KAPPA base: a fluid, architectural composition that appears as if carved from a single volume of solid wood. This distinctive structure gives the tables a dynamic presence, celebrating both craftsmanship and engineering precision. Through its evolution, the collection expands into multiple expressions, from the warm and timeless Natural Color finish to the bold and contemporary Terracotta edition. Each colorway highlights a different emotional quality of the design—Natural emphasizing authenticity and calm, Terracotta introducing vibrancy, depth, and a strong connection to the earth.

Complementing the collection, the TARA sideboard, designed by award-winning industrial designer Dalibor Marek, enhances the dining environment with ergonomic functionality and sculptural clarity. As a recipient of the BIG SEE Design Award for Best Wooden Product 2023–2024, TARA brings visual balance and a sense of refined practicality to the setting.

Together, the KAPPA tables, chairs, and TARA sideboard form a cohesive design universe rooted in symmetry, craftsmanship, and contemporary elegance—crafted for those who appreciate thoughtful design and enduring beauty.