We, as the Designer Interviews ("DI") had the distinct pleasure and opportunity to interview award-winning, most creative and innovative Masanori Goto ("MG").
Masanori Goto is a Japanese interior and architectural designer. He believes that incorporating the traditions and culture of a region into spaces is essential for the development of local industries. Of particular note is his adept utilization of materials in unexpectedly innovative ways. In his Tokyo project, Junno's Table, he created beautiful lighting fixtures by illuminating rattan from within, producing a magical ambiance that resonates with his delicacy and Japanese tradition. Recognized as "MOST VIEWED & MOST POPULAR" for two consecutive terms at the FRAME Magazine DESIGN AWARD, Masanori Goto is emerging as a noteworthy Japanese designer to watch. His Instagram has over 260,000 followers, including prominent figures such as the contemporary British artist Mark Leckey (known for solo exhibitions at Espace Louis Vuitton Tokyo and collaborations with Supreme) and renowned furniture brands, as well as various other accounts.
Masanori Goto Designs
We are pleased to share with you original and innovative design work by Masanori Goto.
Masanori Goto Design - Junno's Table Restaurant
Designer Interview of Masanori Goto:
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?
MG : I tend to get bored easily, so I quickly lose interest in regular jobs. Design, however, offers new discoveries and excitement with each project. It's the only field that has never bored me. That's why I decided to focus on design.
DI: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
MG : I dislike copying other designs. By incorporating new materials and inspirations, I always strive to create designs that are unique and different from others.
DI: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
MG : I enjoy using materials crafted with new technologies and finding unconventional uses for traditional materials that nobody had ever imagined.
DI: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
MG : I love traditional Japanese lacquerware and kimonos. By incorporating these into my designs, I aim to allow many people to experience Japanese culture and ensure that traditions are passed down. It's essential for designers to contemplate culture and tradition.
DI: What makes a design successful?
MG : It's about observing various things, feeling them, and inputting them as my own ideas.
DI: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
MG : The evolution of design culture, I believe, progresses alongside advancements in materials and industries.
DI: What skills are most important for a designer?
MG : Curiosity and playfulness. Skills are okay with a little help from others.