Interviews with Hideyuki Kishihara

The family business was a manufacturer of women's shoes, so I designed shoes. Later, I established my own company, designing and selling apparel and leather items.

Forced to.

Apparel, leather items, web, etc.

See things from different perspectives.

A great designer should have great output.

What it means.

I believe that design is necessary as a means to achieve good objectives.

I want to design things that people wear and use in their daily lives.

I can't think of any.

To think of the face of the user.

none in particular.

Apple.Intuitive and beautiful.

The design is based on the image of the user's usage scenario.

Seeing different things from different angles.

I am a designer and entrepreneur.

Design is a means to an end.

Family and Customers.

Seeing things from different angles.

I am not a design master.

As you want.

I would like to design items utilizing traditional Japanese crafts.

Continuing to be a designer.

I don't know.

People from diverse backgrounds share issues and work together to solve them.

Creating products that delight users.

I can't choose.

I hope that the design industry can help create a better world.

Depends on the case.

To envision the user's usage scenario.

Live as one likes.

I believe that technology can help design.

Illustrator,Photoshop

color, materials, and ambient are all important elements in design, and their thoughtful selection and integration can have a significant impact on the overall success of a design.

I would like to know the background behind the creation of this design.

I think co-design works.

Everything I see.

I do not consider myself a master designer.

Son died at age 5.

Glad to hear others appreciate it.

Color: I can not choose.
Place:Home.
Food: I can not choose.
Season:I like the spring time when the cherry blossoms are in bloom.
Thing:No Idea.
Brand:Apple

I was happy when I saw a woman wearing shoes I had designed.

To enjoy life.

My childhood dream was to be a footballer.

People are living happily.

I am glad that you are using something I designed.

A company that manufactures and sells beautifully designed.

Design is a means to an end.

Things we use in our daily life.

Simple, functional and beautiful design.

Traditional technique.

When I am looking at something

Simplicity.

Exciting.

Exciting.

To envision the user's usage scenario.

Whether it feels good or not.

Sustainability.

I think the required meaning of design is becoming more important.

Undecided.

To see something beautiful.

Simple, functional and beautiful design.

Osaka JapanI think traditional culture has influenced my designs.

I value communication.

A good designer is one who understands your purpose.

Imagine the scene or benefit the user will use the item and start designing. I try to make the design as simple and intuitive as possible.

Moleskine
JOTTER（PARKER）
iPhone
MacBook Pro
AirPods2

Wake,Work,Sleep

Do as you want.

I don't Know.

Imagine the user's usage scenario.

To see things from different perspectives.

Adobe,Paper,Pen.Inspiration is what I've seen so far.

Work hard.

Depends on the subject.

Nothing in particular.

Everything.

I design for my own company.

Everything.

I would like to design items that utilize materials that have never been used before. I have several plans.

Design using traditional Japanese crafts.

While fishing before sunrise and watching the ocean during the enchanting moment known as the "blue hour," I was inspired to think about whether I could create leather items that express the waves of the sea using fish leather, while utilizing gradient effects to represent the changing colors of the sky.I realized that the scale patterns of fish leather not only resemble waves but also signify the creatures that inhabit the ocean, allowing it to effectively represent the sea itself.Additionally, I believed that a gradient effect was essential for capturing the nuances of the sky's hues. This led me to consider various methods for dyeing the leather to achieve the desired gradient, ensuring that the final product reflected the beautiful transitions of color that occur at dawn.

The "Fu-kin-machi" is a unique traditional technique in Japan, distinguished by its characteristics of being "thin" and offering "ease of use."The key feature of Fu-kin-machi lies in its design: unlike the standard "accordion gusset" (Jabara-machi), which folds the partitions inward (valley fold), the Fu-kin-machi folds outward (mountain fold). This design allows cards and other items to be easily inserted and removed without snagging, while also allowing for a thinner finish.Creating Fu-kin-machi requires more pattern pieces than standard accordion gussets, and it necessitates precise adjustments to the leather thickness down to 0.1 mm, as well as meticulous cutting. This complexity demands advanced skills and considerable effort, making it unsuitable for mass production. Consequently, there are very few workshops that continue to pass down this technique today.The Fu-kin-machi is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functionally superior, which is why it is rarely seen—there are very few artisans capable of producing it. While there are imitations that simply create gussets with mountain folds, true Fu-kin-machi embodies the delicate aesthetic sense and meticulous craftsmanship that characterize Japanese tradition. It is a unique cultural heritage that we must preserve for future generations.My desire to carry on the tradition of the Fu-kin-machi was a significant factor in my decision to incorporate this technique into my designs.

In an attempt to express the gradient by layering many colors, we initially faced challenges with clearly defined boundaries between the colors, making it difficult to achieve the desired effect.We experimented extensively with dye concentrations and color adjustments, trying various tools for dye application, including brushes and rollers. Ultimately, we concluded that using cotton soaked in dye was the most effective method.Additionally, we explored different techniques for dyeing with the dye-imbued cotton, adjusting the pressure applied and experimenting with various motions such as rubbing and tapping. Through this process, we identified the most suitable methods for each color, allowing us to create a smooth and cohesive gradient.

The Orizzonte 02 Card Case, with its concept of "Carry the scenery with you," captures a deep-rooted philosophy in Japanese design that reveres nature, tradition, and mindful living. This approach integrates the beauty of natural materials with practical utility, encouraging people to incorporate nature into everyday life. In contemporary Japanese design, this philosophy reflects a cultural movement toward sustainability and simplicity—qualities that resonate with the elegance and functionality of the Orizzonte 02.

The reality is that parts of fish familiar on Japanese tables, such as heads, bones, and "skins," are discarded far more than one might imagine. Of these discarded parts, about 10% are processed into fish meal for use as fertilizer or animal feed, while the remaining 90% is incinerated as waste.Inspired by the philosophy of the company providing our fish leather—“sustainable manufacturing that does not waste the blessings of life”—we established "L'ora blu" with the desire to help popularize fish leather.Although global production is still limited, fish leather has recently gained attention as a new eco-friendly alternative to conventional leather such as cowhide.When people hear "fish leather," they may imagine it to be smelly or fragile, but through a tanning process similar to animal hides, it is transformed into leather that is incredibly durable and free from any fishy odor.Over the course of about a month, we turn “fish skin” into “fish leather.” As each piece of fish skin is small, the tanning process requires significant time and effort, making fish leather a very valuable material.Fish Leather Production Process①Collecting Fish SkinsWe collect fish skins that would normally be discarded from fresh fish markets and food processing companies. These skins are typically thrown away during the processing of sashimi and other fish dishes. This includes not only skins but also heads and organs, contributing to approximately 660,000 tons of fish waste each year.②Removing FleshAny remaining flesh and fat are carefully removed from the skin, as oxidized fat causes unpleasant odors. This is one of the most important steps in eliminating fishy smells, requiring delicate, thorough work on each individual skin.③SaltingThe skins contain a lot of moisture and can spoil easily, so they are sprinkled with salt and preserved by drying. By selecting and preserving skins of varying species and thicknesses according to the season, we aim for a consistent, high-quality result.④Defatting and BleachingThe dried skins are then soaked in a defatting and bleaching solution to further remove fats and to cleanse and lighten the skins. Repeating this process over two weeks gradually removes any fishy odor.⑤Tannin TanningTannins derived from plants are infused into the fish skins, turning them into leather. By immersing the skins in a tannin solution—a substance found in tea, for example—for two weeks, they become durable, flexible fish leather.⑥DyeingThe finished fish leather is dyed in carefully selected colors, bringing out its unique characteristics and beauty as a product material.⑦CompletionThe fish leather of buri (Japanese Yellowtail), a fish known for its “promotion” through life stages, has fine scales about 1–2 mm in size, creating a smooth texture. The leather’s look is subtle and doesn’t overtly suggest “fish,” which will surely appeal to connoisseurs.In Japan, before the Meiji era, samurai and scholars would change their names when they came of age or achieved success, leading to the tradition of “promotion fish” (shusse-uo)—fish that change names as they mature, symbolizing good fortune. These fish were considered auspicious and were often given as celebratory gifts.This auspicious card case makes a great “good luck charm” for work, offering an excellent conversation starter. It’s an ideal gift not only for those who wish to bring good fortune into their careers but also for occasions like celebrating a new job or a promotion.

The Orizzonte 02 Card Case’s blend of sustainability and luxury could set a powerful precedent in the future of accessory design by reshaping the expectations around premium goods. It demonstrates that luxury doesn't have to come at the expense of the environment, and that sustainable materials can be as alluring and desirable as traditional ones. This approach can lead to several key shifts in the industry:Broader Adoption of Sustainable Materials: High-end designers are increasingly willing to explore alternative materials like fish leather, mushroom leather, and other innovative options. This could lead to a broader market embrace of sustainable alternatives that maintain the quality and aesthetics required in luxury goods.Integration of Storytelling into Product Value: As the case suggests, when items have a story—such as being crafted from repurposed materials—they carry emotional and ethical value. Consumers are increasingly drawn to pieces that reflect values like conservation and mindful consumption, so future accessories might prioritize a similar narrative.Emphasis on Transparency and Traceability: As sustainability continues to influence luxury, consumers are also looking for transparency in sourcing and production. Knowing the origins of materials (e.g., ethically sourced fish leather) becomes a part of the appeal, allowing buyers to make choices aligned with their values.In essence, designs like the Orizzonte 02 Card Case are at the forefront of a new luxury movement—one that values ethics, environmental stewardship, and innovation, potentially inspiring both consumers and designers to rethink what “luxury” truly represents.

The two color variations of the Horizonte 02 card case, "L'ora blu" and "Il notturno," are designed to express different time periods and allow users to feel the flow of time and its beauty. Below, we will introduce how each color variation captures different time periods and what thoughts are put into it.L'ora blu"L'ora blu" means "blue hour" and is a color that evokes the mysterious time period when the sky after sunset quietly turns from blue to purple. This time period is reminiscent of the moment of silence and fantastic scenery before the city is enveloped in night. The deep blue of Luora Blu is calming, but at the same time combines luxury and elegance, and is designed to make you feel connected to nature in your daily life.Il notturnoOn the other hand, "Il notturno" means "night view painting" and is a color that expresses the deep darkness and silence of the night. This color is based on chic and calm black and deep charcoal gray, embodying the mystery and quiet strength of the night. "Il notturno" is a timeless design that is simple yet elegant and sophisticated, and fits any occasion. This color evokes the beauty of the night, while also serving as an item that enhances the owner's confidence and elegance.The two color variations of the Horizonte 02 card case are based on different sensations and time of day, naturally making the user feel the passage of time. Each color and theme is designed to provide a little extra special time in everyday life.

The Leather Edge Creaser technique plays a pivotal role in the Orizzonte 02 Card Case's signature refined aesthetic. This tool is used to create a clean, decorative line along the edge of the leather, enhancing its visual appeal and giving it a professional, polished look. Here's how it contributes to the design:Precision and Symmetry: The creaser ensures a consistent groove or bevel along the edges, which adds a harmonious and balanced detail to the piece. This level of precision elevates the card case, aligning with its minimalist yet sophisticated design language.Refined Texture: Beyond its aesthetic contribution, the creaser slightly compresses the edge, preparing it for edge finishing treatments like burnishing or painting. This reduces roughness and ensures the edges remain smooth to the touch.Durability: Well-finished edges are not just about looks—they protect the leather from fraying or splitting over time. The technique reinforces the structural integrity of the card case, ensuring longevity without compromising its sleek appearance.In the Orizzonte 02, the meticulous use of the Leather Edge Creaser reflects a commitment to craftsmanship, offering an understated yet striking detail that speaks to the sophistication of the design and the skilled techniques behind its creation.

Building on the success of the Orizzonte 02 Card Case, we’re eager to push the boundaries of fish leather and gradient techniques while staying true to our core value of environmental responsibility. Here’s how we plan to evolve:1. Expanded Use of Fish LeatherBroader Applications: We aim to explore fish leather in larger designs such as wallets, clutches, or small accessories, showcasing its versatility and unique texture.2. Gradient Techniques as a Signature StyleDynamic Colorways: Extending gradient effects to create more vivid and multidimensional color palettes, echoing the natural hues of aquatic ecosystems.Handcrafted Artistry: Collaborating with artisans to incorporate hand-painted or hand-dyed gradients, making each piece one-of-a-kind and further celebrating craftsmanship.3. Environmental ResponsibilitySustainable Sourcing: We will continue partnering with suppliers who upcycle discarded fish skins, reducing waste from the fishing industry.Eco-Friendly Treatments: Experimenting with plant-based dyes and water-efficient tanning methods to reduce the environmental footprint of production.By staying innovative yet conscious, we aim to deepen the narrative of luxury rooted in sustainability—creating designs that resonate with those who value style and responsibility in equal measure.

Fish leather has an uneven surface, which causes some problems when sewing, so the protrusion of the scale pattern was slightly shaved off to make the fish leather less uneven.Otherwise, there were no differences from other leathers and few technical issues.

The precise engineering of the coin purse space height in the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet was the result of an iterative design process that balanced functionality, aesthetics, and the constraints of working with fish leather. Here's an overview of how we arrived at this solution:1. Prototyping and TestingRefinement Rounds: Multiple prototypes were developed, each slightly adjusting the height of the coin purse walls. These tests involved:Daily Use Trials: Simulating real-world usage by adding varying coin types and testing for ease of access and secure closure.2. Fine-Tuning the DesignZipper Placement: The zipper was positioned with millimeter precision to avoid snagging on coins while maintaining a smooth glide.The result is a coin purse space that seamlessly integrates into the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet, delivering a refined experience that underscores our commitment to usability without sacrificing the wallet’s luxurious aesthetic.

While fishing before sunrise and watching the ocean during the enchanting moment known as the "blue hour," I was inspired to think about whether I could create leather items that express the waves of the sea using fish leather, while utilizing gradient effects to represent the changing colors of the sky.I realized that the scale patterns of fish leather not only resemble waves but also signify the creatures that inhabit the ocean, allowing it to effectively represent the sea itself.Additionally, I believed that a gradient effect was essential for capturing the nuances of the sky's hues. This led me to consider various methods for dyeing the leather to achieve the desired gradient, ensuring that the final product reflected the beautiful transitions of color that occur at dawn.

The creation of the three colour variants of the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet, L'ora blu, L'ora magica and Il notturno, was a deliberate design choice that evokes a specific moment in nature, defined by the unique interaction of time and light The colours of each piece are inspired by the natural cycle of time and light. Each colour scheme represents a different stage of the natural cycle, inspired by the shifting light and colours throughout the day, and our deep emotional connection with the natural world influenced our choices.1. l'ora blu (The Blue Hour)Inspiration L'ora blu takes its inspiration from the ‘blue hour’, the time just before sunrise and after sunset. This moment is marked by deep, quiet blues and soft purples as the sky darkens, but before the first and last rays of the sun have completely disappeared.Colour palette: the blue tones evoke the stillness and coolness of twilight, where the world seems to stand still and time seems to stand still, stilled by the fading light of evening. We chose a mix of shades, including deep blues and violet, to capture this peaceful, contemplative moment. The colour transitions are subtle, reflecting the gradual changes in the sky just before night fully sets in.Symbolism: the colour palette evokes calm, reflection and tranquillity, representing a rare moment of serenity, as the world quietly waits for day and night to unfold.2. lola magica (The Magic Hour)Inspiration Lola Magica draws inspiration from the ‘magic hour’, just before sunset and after sunrise, when the colours of the rainbow - purple, orange, gold and light blue - glow beautifully. The complex shades of this time of day give the world a magical quality, enveloping everything in warmth and ethereal light.Colour palette: this variation features a rainbow of tones including purple, orange, gold and light blue.Symbolism: Lola Magica captures fleeting moments of warmth, beauty and hope, evoking a sense of optimism and wonder. The livery symbolises the magic of nature's rhythms as everything shines in an otherworldly light, signalling both the end and beginning of the day.3. il Notturno (The Painting of The Night Scene)Inspiration Il Notturno is inspired by the stillness of the night, when the sky is deep and dark, with only faint starlight or moonlight shining through. The colouring reflects the quiet majesty of the night sky.Colour palette: the shades used for Il Notturno are deep, rich shades of purple and black. This gives the leather an almost ethereal depth, expressing the serenity and vastness of the night.Symbolism: this variation expresses mystery, rest and the quiet beauty of night. It embodies the peaceful solitude that night brings, bringing reflection and tranquillity while the world sleeps.Design process for each colourwayLayering and gradation techniques: the gradient effect creates a smooth transition between tones, capturing the gradual changes in natural light.Emotional connection: as well as reflecting the beauty of nature, it also provides a sensory connection to the time of day - the coolness of twilight, the warmth of dawn and dusk, the stillness of night.

The Leather Edge Creaser technique plays a pivotal role in defining the refined aesthetic of the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet. By creating a clean, decorative line along the edges of the leather, it enhances the wallet’s visual appeal and elevates its overall design, giving it a polished, professional look. Here’s how this technique contributes to the piece:1. Precision and SymmetryThe edge creaser ensures a consistent groove or bevel along the leather’s edges, which adds a harmonious and balanced detail to the wallet. This precision aligns with the wallet's minimalist design, enhancing its sophistication without overwhelming its simple yet elegant aesthetic. The sharp, consistent lines create a visual flow that complements the rest of the design.2. Refined TextureBeyond its aesthetic function, the creaser subtly compresses the leather’s edges. This step prepares the leather for subsequent finishing processes such as burnishing or painting, ensuring the edges are smooth and refined. This meticulous finishing reduces roughness, providing a tactile quality that enhances the wallet's luxury feel.3. DurabilityThe well-executed edge creasing technique not only contributes to the visual appeal but also strengthens the leather’s edges. Properly finished edges are crucial in preventing fraying or splitting over time, ensuring the wallet maintains its structural integrity. This durability ensures the wallet remains functional and beautiful for many years, aligning with the commitment to quality craftsmanship.In the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet, the thoughtful application of the Leather Edge Creaser reflects the meticulous attention to detail and commitment to superior craftsmanship. This subtle yet impactful feature underscores the wallet’s sophisticated design, offering a refined, durable finish that stands the test of time.

The Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet’s blend of sustainability and luxury could set a powerful precedent in the future of accessory design by reshaping the expectations around premium goods. It demonstrates that luxury doesn't have to come at the expense of the environment, and that sustainable materials can be as alluring and desirable as traditional ones. This approach can lead to several key shifts in the industry:Broader Adoption of Sustainable Materials: High-end designers are increasingly willing to explore alternative materials like fish leather, mushroom leather, and other innovative options. This could lead to a broader market embrace of sustainable alternatives that maintain the quality and aesthetics required in luxury goods.Integration of Storytelling into Product Value: As the case suggests, when items have a story—such as being crafted from repurposed materials—they carry emotional and ethical value. Consumers are increasingly drawn to pieces that reflect values like conservation and mindful consumption, so future accessories might prioritize a similar narrative.Emphasis on Transparency and Traceability: As sustainability continues to influence luxury, consumers are also looking for transparency in sourcing and production. Knowing the origins of materials (e.g., ethically sourced fish leather) becomes a part of the appeal, allowing buyers to make choices aligned with their values.In essence, designs like the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet are at the forefront of a new luxury movement—one that values ethics, environmental stewardship, and innovation, potentially inspiring both consumers and designers to rethink what “luxury” truly represents.

The scale pattern in the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet brilliantly mimics the fluidity of ocean waves, and the use of sea bream skin was a carefully chosen material to achieve this natural aesthetic effect. Several characteristics of sea bream skin make it an ideal choice for this design:1. Distinctive Scale PatternSea bream leather features a unique and finely detailed scale pattern, which resembles the gentle flow of ocean waves. The scales are naturally arranged in an elegant, overlapping manner that mirrors the texture of the sea, providing an authentic look that is both organic and visually appealing.2. Texture and DepthThe scales of sea bream leather have a subtle but dynamic texture. This texture allows light to reflect off the surface in varying ways, creating depth and movement. The interplay of light across the scales gives the wallet a liveliness, capturing the shifting nature of water and enhancing the oceanic theme.3. Durability and StrengthSea bream skin, like many fish leathers, is known for its strength and durability. Despite its delicate appearance, it is a robust material, providing the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet with long-lasting durability. This ensures that the natural pattern remains intact over time, making it a perfect choice for a piece that combines both beauty and functionality.4. SustainabilitySea bream leather is a sustainable option, often made from fish that are by-products of the food industry. This aligns with the eco-conscious design philosophy of the Orizzonte collection, allowing the use of a natural material that doesn’t contribute to additional environmental waste, further enhancing the connection to nature.In summary, the use of sea bream skin in the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet combines the visual appeal of its distinctive scale pattern with its tactile qualities and environmental benefits. The result is a piece that not only represents the fluidity and beauty of the ocean but also showcases sustainable craftsmanship.

The recognition of the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet with an A' Design Award is a significant milestone, and it has certainly influenced my approach to future designs in the L'ora blu collection in several ways:1. Reinforced Commitment to Innovation and CraftsmanshipWinning an international award like the A' Design Award validates the importance of pushing boundaries in both design and craftsmanship. It has further reinforced my commitment to integrating innovative techniques, sustainable materials, and meticulous attention to detail in future designs. For the L'ora blu collection, this recognition encourages me to experiment with new textures, patterns, and materials, while staying true to the core values of functionality, elegance, and environmental responsibility.2. Emphasis on Storytelling and Emotional ConnectionThe Orizzonte 01 wallet’s success has highlighted the importance of incorporating storytelling into design. With L'ora blu, I will continue to explore how the materials and design elements can reflect deeper narratives — whether through the use of sustainable fish leather or the evocation of natural phenomena like the play of light and time. This recognition encourages me to think beyond aesthetics and focus on creating products that resonate emotionally with consumers, helping them connect with the design’s inspiration and purpose.3. Elevated Standards of ExcellenceBeing acknowledged with the A' Design Award sets a higher standard for future projects. It inspires a greater focus on precision, refinement, and holistic design thinking. I’m motivated to further perfect the balance between artistry and practicality, ensuring that every new item in the L'ora blu collection meets the same level of excellence, both in terms of form and function.4. Global Perspective and Market AppealThis recognition opens doors to a wider, international audience. As I continue to develop new pieces for the L'ora blu collection, there is now a deeper awareness of the global market’s expectations. Understanding the diverse tastes and cultural contexts allows me to design products that are both universally appreciated and uniquely innovative, ensuring the collection resonates with luxury-conscious consumers worldwide while staying rooted in sustainability and ethical design.5. Encouraging Collaboration and GrowthThe A' Design Award has also fostered a sense of collaboration and growth, encouraging me to connect with other designers, artisans, and professionals. These relationships offer valuable insights and inspire new ideas for future pieces in the L'ora blu collection, helping me push the boundaries of what can be achieved in luxury, sustainability, and design.In essence, the recognition of the Orizzonte 01 Zip Around Wallet has not only validated the design principles of the L'ora blu collection but also motivated me to continue innovating and refining my approach. It is a constant reminder that design can inspire change and impact, especially when guided by the principles of creativity, sustainability, and craftsmanship.

ChatGPT:ChatGPTThe most challenging part was repeatedly prototyping until I achieved the desired color for the gradient leather. I experimented with various factors such as dye concentration, color mixing, and the tools used for dyeing, continuing the process until I was satisfied with the results. In the end, I was able to achieve the perfect color, and it has been praised by customers as well.