Teachers of Taste: Leading Designers of Contemporary Japan

Contents:

• Muji
• Karimoku
• Miyazaki Chair Factory
• Koyori
• Time & Style
• Ambientec
• Tadao Ando (b. 1941)
• Sou Fujimoto (b. 1971)
• SANAA
• Junya Ishigami (b. 1974)
• Kengo Kuma (b. 1954)
• Toyo Ito (b. 1941)
• Hikaru Mori (b. 1964)
• Drill Design
• Nendo
• Naoto Fukasawa (b. 1956)
• Ryozuke Fukuzada (b. 1979)
• Ishiro Iwasaki (b. 1965)
• Toshiyuki Kita (b. 1942)
• Mikiya Kobayashi (b. 1981)
• Wataru Kumano (b. 1980)
• Jin Kuramoto (b. 1976)
• Fumi Shibata
• Tokujin Yoshioka (b. 1967)
• Shinzaku Miyamoto (b. 1978)
• Nao Tamura (b. 1976)
• Masayuki Kurokawa (b. 1937)

Japanese design combines sophisticated and austere minimalism, allowing for an original blend of traditional and high-tech elements. Spiritual spaces and animated objects are important aspects of this style. The Japanese masterfully work with monochrome and demonstrate an outstanding command of color. These qualities make them true teachers of taste, inspiring the creation of harmonious interiors and aesthetically pleasing objects.

In this column, I will talk about the manufacturers and designers of Japanese objects. We will focus on architects and specialists who design and create furniture, household items, and interior accessories. The art of Japanese design is expressed in the harmony of form, functionality, and aesthetics, which makes these objects unique and sought-after. We will not discuss artisans working with paper, ceramics, lacquer, glass, or wood, but will focus on contemporary approaches to design and architecture that shape Japanese cultural heritage and influence global trends.

• Companies
• Architects
• Studios
• Industrial Designers

Muji

Muji is one of the leading brands embodying contemporary Japanese design. Founded in 1980, the company offers simple, affordable, and high-quality products. Muji design emphasizes the correct choice of materials, optimization of production processes, and minimization of packaging, which includes, for example, the use of unbleached pulp. Muji stores can be found in almost every supermarket in Tokyo, and there are over 1,000 retail outlets worldwide, offering clothing, stationery, home goods, food, and even home accessories. Today, Muji's annual turnover is approximately $3 billion, confirming the effectiveness and appeal of the simplicity concept in business.

Karimoku

The production, founded in the Edo period, has a long history and traditions. Initially, the company specialized in lumber. Since 1940, the company has shifted to spinning machines, and since the 1960s, the emphasis has been on Japanese furniture. The catalog features a unique section called "Japanese Homes," which includes tatami mats, low tables, and screens reflecting Japanese culture and style. At the same time, the range also includes universal furniture suitable for various interiors around the world.

Miyazaki Chair Factory

Miyazaki Chair Factory is one of Japan's key and stylish companies. Founded in 1969, the factory continues to operate as a family business. Following Takaharu Miyazaki's death in 1993, his son, Masahiro Miyazaki, assumed control. Under his leadership, the company maintained its traditions and quality, making it renowned not only in Japan but also abroad. Miyazaki Chair Factory continues to produce high-quality furniture, combining innovative technologies with traditional methods to create unique and durable pieces. Miyazaki Chair Factory creates elegant, high-quality furniture. The company's designers interpret European style, allowing them to create unique pieces inspired by the work of masters such as Gio Ponti and Danish designers of the mid-20th century. This is not simply copying—it is a shining example of the Japanese ability to adapt and rework ideas from other cultures, imbuing them with new meaning and aesthetics. Each Miyazaki chair is the result of meticulous work, harmoniously combining traditional Japanese principles and modern design solutions.

Koyori

Koyori is a young but rapidly growing company that brings together manufacturers from all over Japan. Founded in 2019, a year before the pandemic, Koyori successfully overcame the challenges that led to the closure of many outdated factories. Thanks to its innovative model and adaptability, Koyori has established itself as a reliable partner in the Japanese industry, providing high-quality solutions and support to its customers.

Koyori furniture is distinguished by a minimalist and elegant design that respectfully reflects nature. Its forms feature motifs of leaves, stones, and branches, creating a poetic perception of Japan from a European perspective. The design is carried out primarily by European designers: the Bouroullec brothers from France, the Milanese studio GamFratesi, and the Greek designer Michael Anastassiades, who lives in London. This furniture is not only functional, but also fits harmoniously into any interior, emphasizing the connection between man and nature.

Time & Style

The company is a premium brand that employs not only Japanese craftsmen, but also famous European designers. Among them are the Frenchman Jar-Marie Massaud and the Swedish design duo Claesson Koivisto Rune. A special collection for this brand was developed by Swiss architect and Pritzker Prize winner Peter Zumthor. The high quality and unique style of its products make the company a leader in its field.

The Time & Style factory, located on the picturesque island of Hokkaido, produces high-quality furniture. Here, the entire wood processing cycle is carried out: from harvesting logs to drying, sawing, and assembly. The furniture creation process pays particular attention to detail, and many operations are performed by hand, ensuring the meticulous finishing of each piece. Time & Style Style prides itself on its craftsmanship and commitment to creating unique interior items that combine traditional techniques and modern design solutions.

Ambientec

The lighting brand Ambientec stands out for its unique specialization in portable, rechargeable and waterproof lamps. These technologically advanced lamps are not only functional but also have an aesthetically pleasing design. Ambientec collaborates with Japanese designers and talented professionals like Italian Lisa Ossino to develop its products, highlighting its international approach to lighting.

Tadao Ando (b. 1941)

A world-famous and talented architect, the author of many unique museums, is known for his projects to reconstruct such buildings as the Palazzo Grassi and Dogana in Venice, as well as the Stock Exchange in Paris. His museums on Naoshima Island attract the attention of architects and contemporary art enthusiasts from around the world. Self-taught, he studied traditional Japanese architecture and also learned about Western architecture, history, and technology during his travels in the United States, Europe, and Africa. In 1969, he founded Tadao Ando Architect and Associates in Osaka, a milestone in his career that further developed his unique style. Ando is an honorary member of the architectural academies of six countries and a visiting professor at renowned universities such as Yale, Columbia, and Harvard. In 1997, he accepted a position as professor of architecture at the University of Tokyo. The architect has been awarded the prestigious Pritzker Architecture Prize and the American Institute of Architects Gold Medal. He also received the Kyoto Prize for his lifelong contributions to art and philosophy. Ando's work has left a lasting mark on architecture, and his approach to design continues to inspire new generations of architects. Buildings designed by the renowned architect can be found in Japan, Europe, the United States, and India. His iconic works include the Church of Light in Osaka, the Hompukunji Water Temple in Japan, the Wind Temple on Mount Rokkyo, and the Poly Grand Theatre in Shanghai. While his contribution to product design is less visible, it is still impressive. Among his works are the Murano glass vases and lamps created for Venini, as well as the Veliero lamp collections and the Ando Cosmos and Ando Time vases. Of particular note is the 2013 Dream Chair, designed for Carl Hansen & Son, which combines aesthetics and comfort.

Sou Fujimoto (b. 1971)

Fujimoto is one of Japan's most renowned contemporary architects. He graduated from the University of Tokyo with a degree in architecture, Faculty of Engineering. His popularity increased significantly after he won the Architectural Review Awards, which recognizes emerging talent in the world of architecture, for three consecutive years. In 2012, Fujimoto was part of the team that received the Golden Lion at the Venice Architecture Biennale, further confirming his outstanding contribution to contemporary architectural art.

Sou Fujimoto is known for his unique architectural structures and installations. His temporary pavilion for the Serpentine Gallery in London became a true masterpiece, reminiscent of frozen white marker shading against the background of photographs of a London park. One of Sou Fujimoto's most famous works is the Bookchair, a bookshelf with a pull-out chair, created for the company Alias. This piece combines functionality and contemporary design, highlighting the architect's unique approach to space and materials.

SANAA

The Tokyo-based firm, founded in 1995 by architects Kazuyo Sejima and Ryue Nishizawa, has become a symbol of the modern Japanese architectural approach. Their work is characterized by white, minimalist, and light volumes, reflecting a unique Japanese aesthetic tradition. The architects emphasize subtlety and grace, offering unusual interpretations of architectural details. The firm actively works on projects that harmoniously integrate into the surrounding environment and emphasize the beauty of simplicity. Sejima and Nishizawa are prominent architects and founders of the SANAA studio, which is highly sought after and recognized in the architectural world. In 2010, they were awarded the prestigious Pritzker Prize, recognizing their mastery and contribution to architectural art. Among SANAA's iconic projects are the glass pavilion at the Toledo Museum of Art, the elegant Dior building in Tokyo's Omotesando district, the Louvre-Lens Museum, known as Louvre II, located in northern France, and the 21st Century Museum of Contemporary Art in Kanazawa. No less significant is the new "Hexagon" space project for the Garage Museum in Moscow, which demonstrates the architects' innovative approach and their commitment to creating unique cultural spaces. SANAA is known for its successful architectural projects, while its furniture designs are limited. Their notable works include the Maruni rabbit-ear chair, the Bordeau Table aluminum table collection for Ligne Roset, the Drop Chair for the Kanazawa Museum of Contemporary Art, and the puzzle-like Flower bench designed for Vitra. These pieces showcase SANAA's unique approach to design and architecture, combining functionality and aesthetic appeal.

Junya Ishigami (b. 1974)

Born in Kanagawa Prefecture, he graduated from the Tokyo National University of Fine Arts and Music with a master's degree in architecture and planning in 2000. He began his professional development at Studio SANAA, and in 2004, he founded his own architectural studio, Junya.ishigami+associates. The studio is known for its innovative projects that harmoniously blend architecture and the environment. Junya.ishigami+associates' work has received recognition both in Japan and abroad for its unique approach to space and light. Several significant works stand out among the most notable projects by architect Junya Ishigami. One such project is Table—a 10-meter-tall steel table with an ultra-thin oscillating top that demonstrates a unique approach to architecture and design. Another outstanding project is Balloon—a massive aerostat unveiled at the Space for Your Future exhibition at the Tokyo Museum of Contemporary Art in 2007. Also noteworthy is the Japanese pavilion at the 2008 Venice Architecture Biennale, which attracted attention for its innovative design. In 2010, Junya Ishigami + Associates won the Golden Lion for Best Project at the Venice Architecture Biennale, recognizing the team's high level of craftsmanship and creativity. These works highlight Ishigami's unique approach to architecture and his commitment to creating spaces that harmonize with their surroundings.

Today, Ishigami's most famous furniture pieces are the unique ghost chairs for the Living Divani brand. Recently, the designer added wool elements to the chair legs, and they are now sold as collectibles. This experimental concept was brought to life by the Downtown+ gallery, headed by Luna Laffanour, daughter of the renowned Parisian gallerist François Laffanour. Luna, being fascinated by Japanese culture, actively promotes the works of Ishigami, which draws attention to contemporary Japanese furniture design.

Kengo Kuma (b. 1954)

The legendary architect received his education at the University of Tokyo and then went on to graduate school at Columbia University. In 1985, he met architectural historian Kenneth Frampton, a well-known proponent of regionalism in architecture. This meeting had a significant impact on his work, setting him on a path of searching for harmony between the universal language of modern architecture and the unique geographical context of each specific place.

In 1986, the renowned architect Kuma returned to Japan. In 1990, he founded Kengo Kuma & Associates, which over time has grown into a multinational architectural firm. Today, it implements hundreds of projects worldwide, making a significant contribution to contemporary architectural art.

Kuma maintains that harmonious, site-specific architecture is created based on sensory sensations. This is achieved through work with light, acoustics, and even smells. The architect prefers to use traditional materials that have been used in Japanese construction for centuries, such as ceramics, stone, bamboo, and wood. These elements not only emphasize the aesthetic value of the buildings but also create a unique atmosphere that promotes harmony with the surrounding nature.

Kengo Kuma, a renowned Japanese architect, designed the elegant Yure House for the nomads for his friend, Parisian gallery owner Pascal Gravier. As part of this project, he also developed several unique furniture collections. One of the most notable is the Migumi collection, created for Aman Miami Beach Residences. This collection includes tables and chairs with a frame made of 20mm-thick oak elements. Despite their apparent fragility, the furniture bases feature exquisite graphics and are reinforced with steel tubing, giving them strength. Overall, the structures create a lightweight impression reminiscent of bamboo. While the bureau's designers, Kazuhiko Mayazawa and Mikuru Hirasawa, worked on the details, the overall vision of the project was realized by Kengo Kuma, which highlights his skill and unique approach to design.

Toyo Ito (b. 1941)

Toyo Ito was born in Seoul and completed his studies at the University of Tokyo, Faculty of Architecture, in 1965. He became known for his study of architectural metabolism while working in the practice of Kiyonori Kikutake. In 1971, the architect founded the Urbanrobot (Urbot) studio, which was renamed Toyo Ito & Associates in 1979. Toyo Ito has received numerous prestigious awards, including the Praemium Imperiale, the Pritzker Prize, and the Gold Medals of the Royal Institute of British Architects and the International Union of Architects. His work is distinguished by its innovative approach and attention to the harmony between architecture and nature, making him one of the leading architects of our time.

Among the most sought-after design pieces are the Ripples Like a River wooden bench by Casamania & Horm, the Sendai Crystal shelving unit, and the Mayahana lamps by the Japanese manufacturer Yamagiwa. The cocoon-like shades of these lamps are made in the form of forms wrapped in threads. They emit a soft light that is reminiscent of the traditional Japanese portable lantern bonbori, creating an atmosphere of coziness and harmony.

Hikaru Mori (b. 1964)

Japanese architect on the Milan design scene. Born in Sapporo, she received her architecture degree and then her PhD from Tokyo National University Geijytsu Daigaku. After moving to Milan, she continued her studies at the Istituto Europeano de Design, where she specialized in interior design. This unique combination of Eastern aesthetics and Western design thinking allows her to create innovative and functional spaces that attract both local and international audiences.

In 1997, Hikaru formed a partnership with Maurizio Zito, creating the Zito+Mori group. This team designs architectural buildings, develops urban environments, creates gardens, and creates installations. The main goal of Zito+Mori is to harmoniously combine architecture and nature, allowing them to create unique spaces that transform the urban environment.

Hikaru Mori has distinguished herself on the design scene with her unique pieces: a wooden table for Riva 1920 and a wooden bench and Lota table lamps for Nemo. The Lota lamp, released in 1980, has already become a collectible at auctions and is considered an antique. It attracts attention with its unique shape, elegant frame, and swiveling halogen lamp. The lamp's design resembles a figure in a hooded cloak, making it not only functional but also stylish. The Japanese have a unique ability to infuse everyday objects with human touches, creating an atmosphere of psychological support for lonely workers tired of the hustle and bustle of the city. This culture allows people to find comfort and coziness in simple things, which is especially important in a metropolitan environment where people often experience stress and loneliness. Thus, the Japanese approach to everyday life not only improves the quality of life, but also promotes emotional well-being.

Drill Design

Object designers Yusuke Hayashe and Yoko Yasunishe founded the Drill Design studio in 2001. Their portfolio includes not only furniture but also a variety of objects, such as paper folders, food containers, and mini stands for glasses, watches, and stationery. This careful approach to everyday objects reflects the Japanese ability to imbue them with soul and character. Drill Design studio actively explores the interplay between functionality and aesthetics, creating unique solutions that fit harmoniously into everyday life. Drill Design studio works with brands such as Muji, Canon, Mercedes, and Camper. They actively participate in exhibitions and have shown their work in major cities such as Tokyo, Singapore, Milan, Paris, and Stockholm. The studio's projects have been recognized with prestigious awards, including the Red Dot Design Award, the German Design Award, the Good Design Award in Japan, the Design For Asia Award, and the Wallpaper Design Award. These achievements highlight the high level of professionalism and innovative approach to design that the studio applies to its work.

Nendo

Proving that Japanese design can be in demand on the international stage, Nendo studio attracts attention with its uniqueness and innovation. The studio's founder, Oki Sato, a Japanese citizen born in Toronto, plays a key role in its success. After graduating from Waseda University's Faculty of Architecture, he founded Nendo in Tokyo. The studio's name derives from the Japanese word for "clay," symbolizing the flexibility and adaptability of the designers' concepts. Nendo works across a variety of fields, including architecture, interior and product design, as well as graphics and installations. The studio also offers corporate identity development and consulting services. In 2013, Nendo created the portable, battery-powered Surface lamp for Louis Vuitton, marking the first time Nendo incorporated lighting into the French brand's furniture. This work underscores the high level of creativity and craftsmanship Nendo brings to each project. Founded in Tokyo, Nendo has expanded its presence with offices in Milan and Singapore. Currently, a team of forty talented designers and architects completes over two hundred high-quality projects annually. Nendo collaborates extensively with renowned brands such as Bisazza, Moroso, Glas Italia, Georg Jensen, La Manufacture, Stellar Works, Desalto, Fritz Hansen, WonderGlass, Lasvit, Atelier Swarovski, Kartell, Nodus, and Alias. Its portfolio includes interior design for retail stores including Camper, Issey Miyake, la Rinascente in Milan, and Starbucks. Nendo has received numerous awards, and its work has been exhibited in prestigious institutions such as the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Museum of Decorative Arts, and the Centre Pompidou in Paris. This confirms the high level of skill and creativity that Nendo brings to the world of design and architecture.

Naoto Fukasawa (b. 1956)

The living classic was born in Yamanashi and educated in the Department of Product Design at Tama University of the Arts in Tokyo, where he is currently a visiting professor. He became the head of the development department at Seiko Epson. In 1989, he moved to Silicon Valley, joining ID Two, now known as IDEO San Francisco. In 1996, he returned to Tokyo, where he founded and headed IDEO, which made significant contributions to innovation and design.

After seven years of work, Naoto Fukasawa Design was founded.

Fukasawa is an outstanding designer who has gained recognition among Italian factories. He designed the Demetra family of adjustable lamps for Artemide, which have become a symbol of elegance and functionality. For Alessi, Fukasawa created Itsumo cutlery, which is distinguished by its simplicity and ease of use. In collaboration with B&B Italia, he presented the Papilio, Bull, and Harbor furniture collections, which fit harmoniously into any interior. For Boffi, the designer designed the Sabbia and Lotus washbasins, distinguished by their modern style and practicality. At Danese Milano, he created the Itka lamps in etched opal glass and the Bincan furniture accessory collection, which exude sophistication and innovation. Fukasawa also designed the Thonet 130 chair collection, inspired by classic design and the iconic Thonet chair, highlighting his mastery of combining tradition and modernity. Fukasawa is a member of the Muji design advisory board. He created a wall-mounted CD player for this brand, made in the shape of a wall fan, which became an iconic object and a symbol of minimalist design.

Naoto Fukasawa's work is featured in renowned museums, including the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, where his famous white donut-shaped humidifier is housed. In 2007, Fukasawa was awarded the title of Honorary Royal Designer for Industry by the Royal Society of Arts in the United Kingdom. That same year, he won the EDIDAs competition and was named Designer of the Year. In 2018, the designer received the prestigious Isamu Noguchi Award. Fukasawa is also the author of two monographs, "Naoto Fukasawa" and "The Embodiment of Naoto Fukasawa," which highlight his unique approach to design and minimalist philosophy. A key aspect of Fukasawa's professional work is his profound understanding of archetypal objects. Together with British industrial designer Jasper Morrison, he developed the concept of supernormal things and organized the exhibition "Supernormal. Sensations of the Ordinary." In 2012, Fukasawa took up a position as a curator at the Japan Folk Crafts Museum in Tokyo, where he continued to advance ideas about the significance of everyday objects in design and culture.

Ryosuke Fukuzada (b. 1979)

A designer specializing in traditional crafts, he was born in Osaka and currently lives and works in Kyoto. From 1998 to 2002, he studied product design at Kanazawa College of Art. Until 2007, he worked as an appliance designer at Sharp. He then continued his education in Italy, where he graduated from Domus Accademia with a master's degree in interior and residential design. From 2008 to 2012, the designer worked at Studio Urquiola in Milan as an assistant to product designer Patricia Urquiola. His experience combines traditional crafts and contemporary design approaches, making his work unique and sought-after.

In 2012, he founded a design studio in Kyoto known for its unique projects. One such project is the bathroom products called the Bug collection. These pieces are distinguished by their delicate design and spontaneous effect, yet every detail is meticulously considered and crafted with precision. The studio strives to create functional and aesthetically pleasing items that fit harmoniously into the interior.

In 2021, a unique series of modern accessories was developed for Kimono and women's decorative hairpins commissioned by Chikueido, a company successfully operating in Kyoto for over 200 years. The hairpins, crafted in the form of metal lattices with an intricate pattern, resemble exquisite bamboo weaving. Despite the delicacy and complexity of the design, Chikueido's artisans achieved a high degree of precision in creating their prototypes. The finished products are made of silver using the "lost wax" method, which ensures their durability and aesthetic appeal.

Ishiro Iwasaki (b. 1965)

Born in Tokyo, he began his career at Sony Design Center. In 1995, he founded Iwasaki Design Studio in Tokyo. His work covers a wide range of objects, including tableware, watches, lighting, furniture, and electronics such as digital cameras and mobile phones. Iwasaki attracts attention with his uniquely Japanese neutrality. Nearly all of his designs, meticulously crafted down to the smallest detail and characterized by high technology, possess a humility bordering on timidity.

Iwasaki has won prestigious design awards, including the Japanese Good Design Award in gold, the iF Design Award in gold, the Red Dot Best of the Best, and the German Design Award in silver. He currently combines his design work with a part-time teaching position at Tokyo University of the Arts and Tama University of the Arts, where he shares his experience and knowledge with future design professionals.

Toshiyuki Kita (b. 1942)

A Japanese designer with a successful career in Italy. He studied in Milan and Osaka, and since 1969 has been practicing in Milan, where his office on Corso Garibaldi has become a famous landmark. In 1964, he received a degree in industrial design from Narita College in Japan and began his career at an aluminum manufacturing company. The designer collaborated with such Italian brands as Bernini and Bilumen. In 1967, he created the Saruyama chair for Moroso, which became an iconic work in the design world.

Kita has designed numerous products for European and Japanese brands, covering a wide range of categories - from furniture to LCD TVs, robots, such as the famous robot for Mitsubishi Electric, and various home accessories. His best-known works include the Wink chair and Kick table for Cassina, as well as the Multilingual Chair, designed for Kotobuki Corporation, which was featured in the Japanese pavilion at the Seville International Exhibition. These products demonstrate high quality design and functionality, which makes them in demand on the international market.

The designer's works are in the permanent collections of such international museums as the Museum of Modern Art (MoMA) in New York, the Centre Georges Pompidou in Paris, the Pinakothek der Moderne in Munich and the Museum of Arts and Crafts in Hamburg. The designer has consulted for the governments of Singapore, Thailand, and China, overseeing projects aimed at reviving art and design in these regions. Recently, he has focused his efforts on education and teaching, continuing his study of traditional Japanese crafts. This experience enriches his work and allows him to bring a fresh perspective to contemporary design practices.

Mikiya Kobayashi (b. 1981)

Kobayashi is one of Japan's leading furniture designers, who founded his own studio in 2006. From the very beginning of his career, he has emphasized the emotional impact of his pieces over their functionality. Kobayashi's designs are minimalist, yet always retain individuality and subjectivity. His works embody the harmony between simplicity of form and depth of feeling, making them unique in the furniture market.

Kobayashi works extensively with wood, combining the management of a design studio with the functions of a showroom. This allows him to avoid the constraints of traditional companies and present his designs directly to consumers. The designer prefers personal meetings with clients to better understand their needs and incorporate their opinions into his work. This approach not only strengthens customer relationships but also fosters the creation of unique and sought-after wood products.

From 2008 to 2015, Kobayashi created a significant collection of objects and furniture aimed exclusively at the Japanese market. His work has received numerous awards, recognizing the high level of craftsmanship and originality of his designs. Kobayashi actively collaborates with leading Japanese furniture companies such as Karimoku, Fuji Furniture, Takumi Kohgei, Dreamy Person, AIWA Metal, Usuiworks, and Tendo Mokko. Each of his creations reflects the unique traditions of Japanese design and a modern approach to functionality and aesthetics.

Wataru Kumano (b. 1980)

The most Scandinavian of the Japanese was born in Tokyo and moved to Finland in 2001. He studied furniture design at Lahti Polytechnic and continued his postgraduate studies at the University of Art and Design in Helsinki. In 2008, he returned to Japan and began working as a designer at Jasper Morrison Tokyo Studio. His unique blend of Japanese and Scandinavian cultures is reflected in his work, making his style recognizable and sought after internationally.

In 2011, Kumano Design Studio was founded, covering a wide range of services in interior, furniture, and product design, as well as project management, on an international scale. In 2021, I was promoted to Associate Professor at Musashino University of Arts, allowing me to share my experience and knowledge with future design professionals.

Kumano's portfolio includes a variety of light wood furniture that evokes a relaxing country atmosphere. Among the unique pieces is an exquisite wooden perfume bottle containing a glass vessel containing the fragrance. Also worth noting are the stylish leather slippers, which combine comfort and elegance. These products emphasize the individuality and aesthetics of a modern interior.

Jin Kuramoto (b. 1976)

A designer specializing in creating striking details, he was born on a picturesque island in the countryside. He is a graduate of Kanazawa College of Art and founded Jin Kuramoto Studio INC. in 2008. The studio quickly gained popularity thanks to its unique approach to design and attention to detail, attracting the attention of both local and international clients. Known for its minimalist approach, HAY develops a wide range of products, including furniture, appliances, tableware, and interior accessories. One striking example is the stylish and minimalist Knit hanger, created by the company's designers. This product fits perfectly into modern interiors, combining functionality and aesthetic pleasure. He currently combines his design practice with teaching at Musashino University of the Arts and Kyoto University of Art and Design. His work has received prestigious awards such as the Red Dot Award Best of the Best and the iF Product Design Award, confirming his high professionalism and creative approach to design.

Fumi Shibata

After completing her studies at Musashino University of Arts, Fumi Shibata began her career at a large electrical goods company. Having gained significant experience, she felt the need for creative self-realization and founded Design Studio S, which specializes in industrial design. The studio develops projects covering a wide range, from everyday electronics and specialized medical equipment to unique capsule hotels. Design Studio S has received numerous prestigious design awards, including the iF Gold Award, Design for Asia Top, and Gold Awards, highlighting the team's high level of professionalism and creativity.

Fumi Shibata is currently a professor at Musashino Art University and chair of the judging committee for the Good Design Awards 2018–2019. In her book, Forms Within Forms, the designer offers a unique perspective on her profession, examining key aspects and trends in contemporary design. Her work and ideas inspire many designers and students seeking a deeper understanding of the meaning of forms and their impact on the perception of the world around us.

Tokujin Yoshioka (b. 1967)

A designer exploring new materials and technologies, he was born in Saga. He completed his studies at the Kuwasawa School of Design in Tokyo in 1988. Throughout his career, he collaborated with renowned masters Shiro Kuramata and Issey Miyake, who played a key role in shaping his unique style. Under their influence, he learned to infuse a subtle poetic vision into mass-produced pieces, allowing him to create original and expressive design solutions.

In 2000, Tokujin Yoshioka founded Tokujin Yoshioka Inc. in Tokyo. As a prominent designer and artist active in architecture, installations, and contemporary art, he focuses on Japanese culture and themes related to nature. Among his iconic works are the "Transparent Japanese House" and the Kou-an Glass Teahouse, both installed at Shogunzuka Temple in Kyoto. In 2013, Yoshioka created "Rainbow Church," a sensory installation presented at the Museum of Contemporary Art, Tokyo. These projects showcase his unique approach to design, which fuses traditional Japanese elements with modern technology to create harmonious spaces where nature and art interact.

Glass is a favorite material among many designers due to its elegance and versatility. Examples of the successful use of glass in design include the Water Block series of transparent benches and the Glas Italia furniture collection. These works demonstrate how glass can combine style and functionality, giving interiors a modern and light look.

Tokujin Yoshioka is a renowned Japanese designer whose work has attracted the attention of major brands such as BMW, Cartier, Driade, Hermès, Louis Vuitton, Lexus, Kartell, Moroso, and Swarovski. His unique functional objects and works of art have received recognition and have become part of the permanent collections of museums around the world. Yoshioka has collaborated extensively with Italian factories, including Desalto, Moroso, and Mutina, which has contributed to the expansion of his international influence. In 2019, he designed the torch for the 2022 Tokyo Olympics, a significant contribution to the cultural event. Newsweek magazine recognized his significance by including him among the 100 most admired Japanese figures in the world. The work of Tokujin Yoshioka continues to inspire designers and art lovers around the world.

Shinzaku Miyamoto (b. 1978)

Furniture designer bringing Japanese style with elements of Art Deco and mid-century modern to the market. Born in Fukuoka Prefecture, he earned a degree in architecture from Kyushu Sangyo University. After completing his studies, the designer began his career at Hida-Takayama, a renowned manufacturer of wooden furniture. His work reflects a unique blend of traditional Japanese design and contemporary trends, making it particularly appealing to those who appreciate aesthetics and functionality. At 25, while traveling solo in Italy, I completed an apprenticeship at a classic manufacturing workshop in Meda. Upon returning to Japan, I began designing in various fields. I currently serve as Creative Director at Ritzwell. My Lightfield sofa design has won the prestigious IF Design Award, confirming the high standards of quality and innovation in my designs.

Nao Tamura (b. 1976)

Tamura studied communications and graphic design at Parsons School of Design in New York. After working at several renowned New York design studios, she founded her own agency in Tokyo, which soon moved to Brooklyn. Tamura is a third-generation designer: her grandmother was involved in clothing production in the 1940s, her mother was an interior designer, and her father was an industrial designer. Her experience and family tradition in design allow her to create unique and innovative projects that stand out in the modern market.

In 2012, the designer designed the July wooden stool for the Finnish company Nikari and the Quill rugs for the Spanish brand Nanimarquina. The designer's studio uses an interdisciplinary approach and collaborates with such renowned brands as Artek, Nike, Wonderglass, and Issey Miyake. As part of her collaboration with Miyake, she created the unisex watch "1/6." Recently, the designer completed projects for the Japanese brand Ambientec, which specializes in designer lighting. For this project, she developed the Turn and Sage family of wireless, USB-rechargeable lamps, distinguished by classic shapes and innovative optics. This design approach emphasizes the interplay of traditional and modern elements, making the products unique and marketable. Tamura masterfully combines innovation, aesthetics, technology, and sustainability. She emphasizes simplifying processes and finding harmony between Japanese and American design cultures. This allows us to create unique solutions that meet modern requirements while preserving traditional values.

Masayuki Kurokawa (b. 1937)

"The godfather of Japanese design" is not only an architect and designer, but also an active promoter of his profession. He was born in Nagoya, where he studied at the Nagoya Institute of Technology and then earned his doctorate from Waseda University. In 1967, he founded Masayuki Kurokawa Architect & Associates, which became known for its unique approach to design and architecture. In 2001, he launched the website Designtope, which aimed to attract young people to the design field. Kurokawa worked in a variety of fields, including architecture, interiors, furniture, and product design. His creative approach sometimes manifested itself in sentimental elements, resulting in the creation of endearing and appealing objects such as the Lavinia lamp. His work continues to inspire a new generation of designers, combining the traditions of Japanese art with modern trends.

Kurokawa is He is the recipient of prestigious awards such as Design of the Day, the German IF Award, and the Good Design Golden Award. His work is recognized and included in the permanent collections of leading museums, including the Museum of Modern Art in New York, the Metropolitan Museum of Art, and the Denver Art Museum. The designer continues to make a significant contribution to the world of art, his work inspires and sets new standards in design.

Learn more about design by joining our Telegram channel. Subscribe and stay up to date with current trends and news in the world of design.

In previous articles, we examined the key aspects influencing the development of our topic. We've analyzed the key trends and highlighted key points to help you better understand the situation. Going forward, we plan to delve deeper and offer practical recommendations for applying these insights. Stay tuned for important information and helpful tips.

• To Mumbai! What does Indian industrial design look like?
• Beirut and Tripoli as centers of contemporary design
• South Korean design: features, names, projects
• Mexican design: how modernism and contemporaneity are combined
• “Proud South”: how design from the southern countries of the world is becoming popular