Through their minimalist Franco-Japanese design aesthetic, Aki+Arnaud Cooren seek to subtly integrate references to nature into the interiors and everyday objects they create. They craft harmonies that evolve continuously—just like nature itself—inviting the public to gradually immerse themselves in the present moment.

Aki grew up in Tokyo. After spending a year in the United States, she returned to Paris at age 18 to study interior and product design at the École Camondo, where she met Arnaud, originally from northern France. Aki had developed an interest in art during her childhood and studied contemporary art in Belgium before moving to Paris.

Since founding their design studio Aki+Arnaud Cooren in 1999, the duo has worked on a wide range of projects spanning interior design, product and furniture design, and scenography for prestigious brands such as Shiseido, Artemide, L’Oréal, Manufacture Nationale de Sèvres, Yamagiwa, Saint Louis, Boffi Bains, Cartier, and Vertigo Bird. They also create bespoke pieces for private clients and collaborate with architects on interior design projects. In spring 2021, they held a solo exhibition at the Carpenters Workshop Gallery in London titled Tiss-Tiss.