Interview with Kazunori Takeishi

I was always interested in painting, art and architecture as a student. I was very inspired by my tutors in university and my mentor in Cranbrook Academy. I worked very hard during the few years working in architecture firms but somehow I had a frustration that my ideas are not being realized and the work somehow lacked a certain sense of satisfaction in me. So I moved on to start my own design studio.

A very important aspect I treasure in the designing process is about being able to speak and convey the idea in language. I talk about the idea to my partner and have discussions about it. Another important aspect is about being out and about in the midst of Nature as a lot of my work are inspired by natural flora and fauna. Part of the process of thinking is also about drawing and sketching before moving on to execute the design and complete the details on the computer.

The most exciting phase in designing would be the brain storming part of it. The trigger of the design idea is important too but it is the translating process of that trigger into a form, structure and shape, and into a sound convincing design.

I think the willingness of learn is very important, such as learning a new tool. Also the openness to new ideas.

I hope to be able to carry on my work, maintain my business and continue creative work. I hope to be able to work on various kinds of projects, small-scale as well as large-scale, not limiting myself to any specific agenda.

I do not really consider myself to be successful... at least not yet. But I think my advice would be to continue to open up and Learn and be adventurous.

I get myself updated with news, not just design news but general news. I set targets for the day. Small targets such as what needs to get done. On off work days, I try to get out and about, away from my computer and my desk, doing sports or fishing.

I do not actually keep up with latest design trends. I try not to be influences by trends or the latest fashion. My target is to be the one to set a trend.

A good design would be something that everyone can relate to easily.

I think of a design as ready when I feel convinced that all aspects of the design is sensible. It has a lot to do with a personal sense and touch which is difficult to explain.

I think the Japanese culture of life as a whole naturally forms a part of the style of my work. The certain quietness and dynamism is something I treasure.

It is an honor to be named the designer of the day. Through the A' design award, my work was able to reach an audience that I would not have been able to reach without the award.