From exhibitions to nail salons, Countach Studio caters its narrative-based designs to everyone

Founded by self-taught designers Malak Mebkhout and Fabien Saura, Countach is a studio that approaches projects in an “unconventional and playful way”. This makes sense when learning that ‘countach’ is a Piedmontese word – a language spoken in northwestern Italy – that directly translates to ‘surprise’.

Having completed work for a vast array of clients, from exhibitions to nail salons, the studio has an eclectic portfolio spanning art direction, visual identities and even set design. This expansive vision is likely rooted in where it sources its inspiration – from absurd filmmakers like Quetin Dupieux to rule-breaking restauranteurs like Massimo Bouttura – and its desire to be involved in the shifts of contemporary society. Interacting with topics like cyber identity, gender equality and technology, Malak says that, “we love to think our posters could become conversation pieces that would help questioning mentalities”. In line with this thinking, the duo always endeavour to include elements of storytelling in their work, making each poster something unique and autonomous. “We believe that a strong visual is nothing without a strong narrative,” Fabien ends.