Stephanie Rentschler is a designer and researcher working at the intersection of storytelling, speculative design, and interdisciplinary methods. As a Design Investigations student at the University of Applied Arts Vienna, she explores the space between reality and fiction, questioning established narratives and creating immersive experiences that challenge perceptions and spark emotions.
Her work spans industrial design, speculative futures, and interactive media, drawing inspiration from game design, photography, videography, creative coding, and immersive installations. She thrives on material experimentation, worldbuilding, and emerging technologies, always asking how design can shape not just objects, but the way we understand and navigate the world.
Driven by curiosity and critical inquiry, Stephanie investigates the social, ecological, and technological forces shaping our future. She transforms abstract ideas into tangible, thought-provoking experiences, many of which have been showcased in exhibitions. Her ability to balance conceptual depth with striking visual storytelling allows her to engage audiences in meaningful ways.
With a background in market research, UX/UI, and product development, she blends analytical thinking with creative vision. Whether she’s crafting speculative prototypes, interactive narratives, or future scenarios, her goal is always to push boundaries and open new perspectives.
At her core, Stephanie sees design as more than aesthetics or function—it’s a powerful tool for critical discourse, social engagement, and systemic change. She moves fluidly across disciplines, bridging design, science, and philosophy to explore new ways of shaping the world around us.