Interview with seike hisashi

seike hisashi ("SH") interviewed on Monday, 20 May.

Could you please tell us about your experience as a designer, artist, architect or creator?

SH : For the first five years, I worked at IAO Takeda Architects Associates, a major architectural firm, where I was involved in the design process from start to finish. After that, I spent about a year and a half under the mentorship of architect Seiji Nii, learning the practices and etiquette of architecture.

How did you become a designer?

SH : At the age of ten, during a school lesson, I received praise from my teacher for designing a residential layout. On that occasion, I was introduced to a renowned architect who shared my surname. This is when I learned about the profession of spatial design. It was at that moment that my future dream of becoming a spatial designer was born.

What are your priorities, technique and style when designing?

SH : I firmly believe that "design resides in the details," and this principle guides my approach to design. While clients often have specific preferences regarding colors and shapes, which I certainly prioritize, I also believe that unifying the details enhances the quality of the space. Equally important is maintaining balance. I consider balance to be crucial in every aspect, including color, material, and dimensions.

Which emotions do you feel when designing?

SH : During the design process, I get excited when a satisfying inspiration strikes. Similarly, my enthusiasm rises when I experience results that surpass my initial expectations upon completion.

What particular aspects of your background shaped you as a designer?

SH : During my student years, I spent about seven years learning basketball. Through this experience, I learned the importance of consistent practice and gaining experience, as well as the ability to joyfully pursue tasks that others might find tedious.

What is your growth path? What are your future plans? What is your dream design project?

SH : I do not have specific plans, but I constantly seek work that allows me to discover unknown and inaccessible worlds. My interest in virtual spaces like the metaverse is part of this pursuit.

What are your advices to designers who are at the beginning of their career?

SH : I want people to understand that there are designs that can only be achieved when you are young.

You are truly successful as a designer, what do you suggest to fellow designers, artists and architects?

SH : Just as the faces of a hundred people are all different, I believe that designed spaces should also vary according to their purpose and the people who use them. My ideal image of the best designer is someone who can create spaces using materials and methods of expression that suit their specific purpose.

What is your day to day look like?

SH : In the morning, I look at the website of the store I designed, checking for updates and other information. Seeing how diligently the store is being managed encourages me.

How do you keep up with latest design trends? To what extent do design trends matter?

SH : I enjoy exploring unseen worlds, so I keep up with the latest information not only in architecture and interior design but also in virtual spaces.

How do you know if a product or project is well designed? How do you define good design?

SH : In the realm of spatial design, I believe a good project is one that can convince all stakeholders through materials, shapes, layout, and other aspects involved in satisfying the end users.

How do you decide if your design is ready?

SH : I imagine moments when I come up with ideas beyond expectations while balancing client requirements. It is at these times that the axis of design is established, enabling answers to all aspects of the project.

What is your biggest design work?

SH : Restaurants offer a non-routine space distinct from home within daily life. At times, this space becomes the main stage for its users, influencing their lives. Designing spaces for "food," which is crucial to living, brings me happiness.

Who is your favourite designer?

SH : I aim to achieve spaces that emphasize simplicity and highlight materials, inspired by the designs of architects like Tadao Ando and Yoshiji Takehara from their generation.

Would you tell us a bit about your lifestyle and culture?

SH : I believe Japanese culture forms the foundation of my design philosophy.

Would you tell us more about your work culture and business philosophy?

SH : I primarily work independently, but I frequently consult with my partner who is also in a similar field. Space design involves collaborating with various materials and craftsmen, so I consider it essential to find and coordinate with these teams.

What are your philanthropic contributions to society as a designer, artist and architect?

SH : I often feel firsthand that Japan's valuable materials and traditional techniques are becoming unsustainable due to a shortage of skilled labor. Recently, I have been thinking a lot about whether there is a way to establish a sustainable framework through design to address this issue.

What positive experiences you had when you attend the A’ Design Award?

SH : In Japan, there is no clear standard to measure the capabilities of designers, particularly in terms of their profession. Therefore, receiving awards like this serves as a confirmation that what I am doing is not wrong and also boosts my confidence. Additionally, encountering new works is also significant.

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