Enjoy a glimpse inside the decisions and philosophy of one of Japan's premier designers in our interview with the man himself.
Read More
On a rainy and cool Sunday afternoon in October, an undeterred group of Philadelphia’s finest textile aficionados gathered in our store for a special lecture and demonstration on the history of Japanese kimono presented by textile expert Andrea Aranow.
Read More
We recently paid a visit to the Petersen Automotive Museum in Los Angeles, California to see their current exhibition entitled “The Roots of Monozukuri: The Creative Spirit in Japanese Automaking”. The exhibition examines 60 years of automotive ingenuity and features rarely seen car designs from some of Japan’s greatest car manufacturers.
Read More
A reverence for tradition, an eye for quality, and a rich history of textile excellence all converge to make Japanese denim a cut above the rest. Read on to learn what sets it apart.
Read More
For designers and creative minds alike, Jun'ichirō Tanizaki's "In Praise of Shadows" inspired a new way of looking at the brutal and hopeful world that surrounds us. Here we explore the life-changing essay that inspired so many of our favorite designers.
Read More
The role of design and the designer is intrinsic to the culture of consumerism in the world today. So why are so many of them designing irresponsibly?
Read More
Of all the Japanese fashion designers working today, there are none who have achieved the legendary aura that pursues Rei Kawakubo. As her Met retrospective winds to a close, we look back at the impact made by the revolutionary designer behind Comme des Garcons.
Read More
Phaidon’s latest offering, “The Japanese Garden” is an in-depth exploration of the art, beauty, and cultural significance of the Japanese garden through the ages. In this exclusive excerpt, author Sophie Walker explores reflection as elemental in the design of a Japanese garden.
Read More
Cavernous and glass-windowed, you would be forgiven for mistaking the Center for Art in Wood for an upscale gallery. Instead, the Center is a remarkably inclusive space, inviting artists and curious admirers from all over the world to discover the art of woodworking. We take you inside.
Read More
The Kizara memo pad is a movement to reclaim the Japanese forest for future generations. Behind its simple design, there’s a long history of craftsmanship and sustainability. We talk to owner Satoshi Koike about the people behind Kizara, the intrinsic beauty of wood, and why it’s so important to touch lumber with your fingertips.
Read More
There is a certain feeling of anxiety that all artists share when standing before a blank canvas, brush in hand, deciding where to place their first stroke. Paper marbling, an art mostly left up to chance, is a welcome release.
Read More
If you’ve ever seen an ikebana arrangement, you know it’s not exactly like the elaborate floral arrangements you’re used to seeing at weddings. In fact, you would be forgiven for thinking there’s not much to arrange there at at all.
Read More
The name of George Nakashima is as famous for its contributions to design philosophy as it is for its artistry. But around the world, a separate legacy follows the renowned Japanese-American craftsman: his interest in world peace and humanitarianism through design.
Read More
Fascinated with the natural formation of trees, George Nakashima’s design philosophy was grounded in the moments of organic creation found within nature. We visit his house and studio in New Hope, Pennsylvania, to learn more about the life and work of the restless Japanese designer.
Read More
Despite its vast domestic resources, Japan has become one of the world’s largest importers of lumber. Organizations like the Kizara Project are using design to fight back.
Read More
Vincent Feldman, an urban architecture photographer and university lecturer, shares his creative journey with us.
Read More
The making of a Karmi tea canister can take up to a year to complete. Here’s a look inside the mind of its creator.
Read More