
Global Atelier
Tuscan Atelier
Tuscany, Italy
27 June – 2 July 2026
A Design Retreat Built for Makers
This isn’t a vacation. It’s a reset.
Join us in Tuscany for six focused days of hands-on footwear and accessories design led by Aki Choklat—international designer, educator, and creative force.
Work with traditional tools, craft with intention, and reconnect with the reason you started designing in the first place. No fluff. No panels. Just real work in a breathtaking setting with a global creative community.
Come for the craft. Leave with clarity.
This is one of many ateliers.
This one is yours.
Our values
Spark Innovation
Ignite creativity through collaborative design, where diverse perspectives fuel transformative ideas.
Design with Purpose
Empower bold exploration that harmonizes beauty with responsibility, crafting solutions that matter.
Create Mindfully
Connect mind and body through intentional design practices that enhance both your personal growth and professional impact.
Meet the team
Tuscan Atelier is an immersive Italian design retreat founded by leaders united in their passion for design education, creativity, and Italy’s cultural richness. Aki Choklat, a globally recognized designer and educator, and Tom Carbone, an expert in luxury footwear, accessories, and prototyping, bring over a decade of global teaching and design experience. Together, they offer unparalleled insight into the worlds of fashion, automotive, and accessory design, delivering a program rooted in innovation and craftsmanship.
Anchored by Seemore Global, Tuscan Atelier blends exclusive access to Italy’s design heritage with transformative cultural experiences. Participants will engage in hands-on workshops, luxury atelier visits, and curated explorations of Italy’s rich design traditions. This retreat empowers designers to elevate their craft and expand their professional horizons, making it a unique opportunity to connect deeply with Italy’s legacy of artistry and innovation.
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Kathleen Greevers
FOUNDER, SEEMORE GLOBAL
Kathleen Grevers is a design education innovator with extensive experience creating large-scale programs that connect global companies, academic institutions, and creative leaders. Specializing in cultural immersion and experiential learning, she develops transformative initiatives that blend heritage craftsmanship with future-focused design practices. Through Seemore Global, Kathleen curates immersive retreats and professional programs that drive creative leadership, sustainable innovation, and global engagement in design education.
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Aki Choklat
FASHION EDUCATOR & DESIGNER
Aki Choklat is an internationally renowned fashion and footwear designer, author, and educator with a career that transcends borders. A graduate of the prestigious Royal College of Art in London, he combines unparalleled creativity with deep industry expertise. Currently serving as the Chair of Fashion Design at the College for Creative Studies (CCS) in Detroit, Aki is dedicated to mentoring and inspiring the next generation of visionary designers.
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Tom Carbone
EDUCATOR & SHOE MASTER
Tom’s enthusiasm is contagious, especially when surrounded by people who share his passion. As a designer, creator, inventor, and dreamer, he brings 20 years of experience in shoe and bag making and 40 years in design and prototyping. His expertise lies in turning ideas into reality, driven by his motto, “What would happen if?” A seasoned study abroad leader, Tom has guided students through immersive creative experiences in Italy, blending design, craftsmanship, and cultural inspiration.
What we will experience
6 days. Two locations. One unforgettable return to your craft.
Your journey begins in Florence, where you’ll settle into the historic Hotel degli Orafi and ease into the week with rooftop views, local food, and creative conversation. You'll explore the city through a designer’s lens—sketchbooks in hand—visiting museums, materials suppliers, and tucked-away corners that still hum with Renaissance energy.
Then we move to Ormanni, a working winery tucked into the Tuscan hills. Here, the making begins. Under the guidance of Aki Choklat, you’ll shift from 2D sketches to 3D maquettes, working with traditional footwear techniques and contemporary design thinking. Days are structured but spacious, with time for reflection, nature, and reconnecting with your creative voice.
There’s no pressure to perform—just space to make, think, and refine. We end with a quiet, powerful celebration of your work and your process.
You’ll leave with more than a portfolio piece.
You’ll leave with clarity.
Outcomes
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Crafting
Feel the texture of fine materials, visit artisan workshops in Florence, and see your vision come to life as you craft with your own hands, inspired by the intoxicating creativity of Italy’s artistic heart.
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Rejuvenating
Breathe in the sun-warmed aroma of Tuscan vineyards, taste the richness of freshly pressed olive oil and wines harvested steps away, and unwind in tranquil settings. Embrace mindful design practices by a sparkling pool or among the Tuscan rolling hills, letting the golden warmth of the landscape restore your spirit.
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Cultural Connection
Inhale the heady scent of cypress trees and fresh earth at a Tuscan winery, stroll ancient cobblestone streets in Florence aglow with history, and immerse yourself in experiences that honor Italy’s timeless artistry while sparking fresh perspectives.
What's included in your Tuscan Design Retreat
Immersive Design Experience
Understanding Italian design heritage and cultural influences
Exploration of sustainable design principles and practices
Hands-on workshops with local artisans and craftspeople
Access to exclusive design studios and ateliers
Creative Development
Personal design mentorship sessions
Collaborative project development
Sketching and ideation workshops in historic locations
Materials and tools for all creative sessions
Cultural Immersion
Guided visits to local design exhibitions and museums
Connection with local design community
Traditional Italian cooking experiences
Cultural workshops with master craftspeople
Wellness & Reflection
Morning meditation and creative visualization sessions
Mindful design practices
Outdoor sketching in Tuscan landscapes
Curated local dining experiences
Take Home
Portfolio of developed design work
Personal design journal
Documentation of process and experience
Certificate of completion
Additional Features
Small group size (maximum 10 participants)
All materials and supplies
Local transportation during scheduled activities
Welcome and farewell celebrations
Dining Inclusions – Villa Ormanni
Full board dining experience with locally-sourced ingredients
Daily breakfast featuring Tuscan specialities
Traditional Italian lunch served in the villa gardens
Elegant dinners showcasing regional cuisine and wine pairings
Dining Inclusions – In Florence (Orafi)
Daily continental breakfast
Curated evening aperitivo gatherings
Local restaurant recommendations and reservations assistance
Special welcome and farewell dinners
Coastal Experience
Signature seaside dinner celebrating Mediterranean flavors