We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Makoto Furihata ("MF").
In order to understand Japanese architecture, he often goes to see old wooden buildings in various areas of Japan such as Kyoto and Nara. He thinks that it is an important study to sense new things by returning to the origin of Japanese architecture, and wisdom and thought of the predecessors. Learning from classics is not limited to architecture. He believes that it is common to all fields. Based on that idea, he designs building.
Makoto Furihata Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Makoto Furihata.
Makoto Furihata Design - Ryouriyado Yamazaki Japanese inn
Makoto Furihata Design - Hillside Residence Private House
Designer Interview of Makoto Furihata:
DI: Could you please tell us more about your art and design background? What made you become an artist/designer? Have you always wanted to be a designer?
MF : I liked beautiful things from a young age and I found that adding beauty to things makes people happy and makes things easier to use.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
MF : More than 50 years ago, we opened an architectural design office in Matsumoto city, Nagano prefecture. We work all over Japan.
DI: What is "design" for you?
MF : Make a good impression. To make things easier to use and increase value.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MF : Works that remain in the hearts of men at all times.
DI: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
MF : Simple and harmonious. Because it can give favorable to everyone.
DI: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
MF : It was a small wooden factory.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
MF : Elaborate traditional fittings with good quality wood.
DI: When do you feel the most creative?
MF : Just before sunrise.
DI: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
MF : Harmony of color composition.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
MF : Honest heart.
DI: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
MF : Honesty and peace.
DI: What makes a design successful?
MF : A heart of humility.
DI: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
MF : The heart of the designer.
DI: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
MF : It gives users a good impression and keeps peace.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
MF : I think that the necessity of design will increase in the future.
DI: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
MF : From the natural world.
DI: How would you describe your design style? What made you explore more this style and what are the main characteristics of your style? What's your approach to design?
MF : Show a new charm of old historical things. Therefore, older ones indicate wonders to increase their value.
DI: Where do you live? Do you feel the cultural heritage of your country affects your designs? What are the pros and cons during designing as a result of living in your country?
MF : Japanese countryside. The cultural heritage encouraged me.
DI: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
MF : Try returning to the origin.
DI: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
MF : To be expected to work. Anxiety about the gap with clients.
DI: What is your "golden rule" in design?
MF : Confidence to be sure to be useful.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
MF : To recognize the purpose accurately.
DI: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
MF : Pencil with eraser.
DI: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
MF : make a plan.
DI: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
MF : By client. I will make efforts to match the client's wishes.
DI: What was your most important job experience?
MF : Touch with own hands.
DI: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
MF : Sound and clear. Because it is bright and accompanied by a sense of security.
DI: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
MF : To improve the landscape of the town.
DI: How can people contact you?
MF : Telephone, E - mail. Please check the homepage.