Helsinki Design Week celebrates its 20th anniversary as a meeting place for architecture and design
Design is an essential cornerstone of Helsinki, the capital of the world’s happiest nation and a UNESCO City of Design. Here, design plays a fundamental role in fostering quality of life and building a sustainable future. Organized for the 20th time this September, Helsinki Design Week is the largest architecture and design festival in the Nordics, inviting both professionals and the public to discover and discuss topical themes while creating new connections.
Design is an essential cornerstone of Helsinki, the capital of the world’s happiest nation and a UNESCO City of Design. Here, design plays a fundamental role in fostering quality of life and building a sustainable future. Organized for the 20th time this September, Helsinki Design Week is the largest architecture and design festival in the Nordics, inviting both professionals and the public to discover and discuss topical themes while creating new connections.
“I would describe Helsinki Design Week as a platform that brings together our design communities in a creative and collaborative manner and connects them to the city of Helsinki. We are proud of our contributions to Helsinki becoming, and remaining, a true design capital,” says Kari Korkman, founder of the festival.
Founded in 2005, Helsinki Design Week emerged as part of a collective effort to reintroduce Helsinki as a creative hub that celebrates the diversity of design in its own unique way. At the time, the design and architecture landscape was somewhat siloed. HDW was launched to build new connections with an open and inclusive approach, helping to demystify design and making it a visible and approachable part of everyday urban life.
“Our collaboration with Helsinki Design Week reflects the city’s deep commitment to design as part of everyday life. Through initiatives such as the Helsinki Design Awards, we celebrate creativity and highlight how design can shape our future – starting with the youngest generations. The forthcoming Architecture and Design Museum will further demonstrate Helsinki’s long-term investment in design and architecture, ensuring it continues to inspire and serve the city well into the future,” says Hanna Harris, Chief Design Officer at the City of Helsinki.
The festival is particularly known for its creative use of city spaces: each year it discovers a new venue for its main event. These locations range from warehouses to historic palaces to hidden architectural gems, each contributing to the sense of exploration that characterizes the festival.
Designing Happiness
This year’s main event takes place at Suomitalo, a granite palace from 1909 located next to the Old Church of Helsinki. While the Armas Lindgren–designed building is as central as can be, it often goes unnoticed by those accustomed to its quiet façade. By inviting designers, architects, artists, Helsinkians, and visitors inside, Helsinki Design Week gives the house a new, contemporary voice.
The festival’s main exhibition will explore the theme of designing happiness. In 2025, Finland was ranked the world’s happiest country for the eighth year in a row, and Helsinki Design Week argues that design plays a significant role in this achievement. The festival program includes talks, exhibitions, a design symposium, the annual Design Market, and the HDW Children’s Design Week for the youngest audience.
Helsinki Design Week runs from September 5–14. The full program is available at helsinkidesignweek.com
Osaka Art & Design 2024
"Immerse yourself in the dynamic and colorful Osaka Art & Design Festival, slated for 2024. With 50 unique venues and 140 captivating exhibits spanning the city's major areas from north to south, you'll have the chance to explore an array of awe-inspiring artistic creations. From innovative furniture designs to cutting-edge fashion pieces and everything in between, this festival promises to showcase some of the most exciting up-and-coming creators in the industry. Prepare to be swept away on a truly unforgettable journey of art and design!"
"Experience the vibrant Osaka Art & Design Festival in 2024. Explore artistic marvels across
50 venues and 140 contents spanning major areas from north to south.
"Immerse yourself in the dynamic and colorful Osaka Art & Design Festival, slated for 2024. With 50 unique venues and 140 captivating exhibits spanning the city's major areas from north to south, you'll have the chance to explore an array of awe-inspiring artistic creations. From innovative furniture designs to cutting-edge fashion pieces and everything in between, this festival promises to showcase some of the most exciting up-and-coming creators in the industry. Prepare to be swept away on a truly unforgettable journey of art and design!"
The Osaka Art & Design 2024 (OAD) will tour Osaka for four weeks from May 29 to June 25, 2024, offering an immersive experience of art and design.
The Osaka Art and Design (OAD) festival is not just another art event - it is the largest and most diverse art and design festival that Osaka has ever witnessed! With around 50 galleries and shops spanning from Umeda to Namba, the festival offers a unique opportunity to explore the emerging artists' diverse array of artistic expressions. From furniture to fashion, there is something for everyone. Visitors can immerse themselves in the artworks and purchase pieces that resonate deeply with their aesthetic sensibilities. Don't miss out on this incredible opportunity to experience the best of Osaka's art and design scene!
In 2023, OAD debuted with 50 exhibitors, 150 artists and designers, and 80,000 visitors. Since then, it has rapidly evolved. This year's theme "Resonance - Expanding the Echo" aims to create synergistic interactions that unleash new creative energies. The event aligns perfectly with the upcoming 2025 Osaka/Kansai Expo, amplifying Osaka's dynamic spirit. Creators from across Japan, especially from the vibrant Kansai region, will converge at this annual gathering. The event unites department stores, art galleries, and interior shops to showcase Osaka's cultural richness globally.
One of the main events in this program lineup is the "HANKYU ART FAIR 2024" which will be held at Hankyu Umeda Main Store. The event will feature renowned artists such as Kohei Nawa, as well as up-and-coming talents like Daisuke Oba and Mika Shinagawa. It will also showcase collaborations such as Reiko Sudo's textile exhibition at Takashimaya Osaka Store, which represents Osaka's innovative spirit.
One of the highlights of the event is the official program "HIZO market" which will unveil exclusive works and prototypes by creators. This initiative aims to create a new creative market, expanding the boundaries of art and design.
“Through the vehicle with plate number OAD2024, we aim to showcase Osaka’s creative talents on a global scale and contribute to the art and design scene in the Kansai region. By partnering with us , we hope to facilitate meaningful interactions between people and artworks, fostering connections that inspire creativity. Your participation is crucial in elevating Osaka as a prominent hub for creativity.”
For more information about Osaka Art & Design 2024, please visit: https://osaka-artanddesign.com
Date: May 29 (Wednesday) to June 25 (Tuesday), 2024, for 4 weeks
Concept: Resonance—Expanding the Echo
Areas: Umeda, Dojima, Nakanoshima, Tenma, Kyomachibori, Minami-Senba, Shinsaibashi, Namba, and
other locations within Osaka City
Venues: Open spaces, galleries, shops, department stores, commercial facilities
Organizer: Osaka Art & Design 2024 Executive Committee
Osaka Terminal Building Co., Ltd./Daimaru Matsuzakaya Department Stores Co., Ltd./Takashimaya Co.,
Ltd. Osaka Store/Hankyu Hanshin Department Stores, Inc./Nankai Electric Railway Co., Ltd./Hankyu
Corporation (Administrative agent: Hankyu Hanshin Real Estate Co., Ltd.)/General Incorporated Association
Umeda 1-chome Area Management *As of April 18, 2024
Exhibitors: Creators (artists, designers), brands, galleries, shops, and other facilities/corporations from
Japan and abroad (about 50 places)
Producer: General Producer Akio Aoki (DESIGNART)
Key Visual Design: Kenta Shibano
Refining the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA designed by TONERICO
The Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. This visionary project, spearheaded by the renowned designers at TONERICO: INC., marks a pivotal step in Hyundai's commitment to delivering zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) in Japan.
The Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA stands as a testament to innovation and sustainability in the automotive industry. This visionary project, spearheaded by the renowned designers at TONERICO: INC., marks a pivotal step in Hyundai's commitment to delivering zero-emission vehicles (ZEV) in Japan.
The essence of this initiative lies in the careful combination of functionality and aesthetics. The project was born to transform an existing warehouse into a space that blends the industrial feel of a maintenance shop with the sleek image of electric and hydrogen vehicles (EV and FCEV). This well-thought-out approach represents Hyundai's commitment to environmental sustainability and establishes a tangible connection between the brand and its customers.
At the heart of the design philosophy is the customer. The integration of the showroom with the maintenance facility at the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA is a testament to our commitment to transparency and trust-building. Customers are invited to witness firsthand the meticulous care and dedication that goes into servicing clean mobility solutions, fostering a sense of confidence and reliability.
A defining feature of the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA is its emphasis on sustainability beyond just the vehicles it showcases. The choice of recyclable materials in the spatial design underscores Hyundai's dedication to creating lasting, environmentally conscious spaces. The result is a harmonious blend of functionality and eco-consciousness, encapsulating Hyundai's core values in a tangible, immersive experience.
The visionary minds behind this project, Hiroshi Yoneya, Ken Kimizuka, and Yumi Masuko of TONERICO: INC., have not just designed a space, but brought Hyundai's vision to life. Their expertise in architecture, interior design, and product design shines through in every aspect of the center, inspiring a commitment to excellence and innovation.
As Hyundai continues to lead the charge towards a cleaner, sustainable future, the Hyundai Customer Experience Center YOKOHAMA stands as a beacon of progress—a testament to the power of design in shaping a brighter tomorrow.
For more information, please visit: https://www.hyundai.com/jp/brand/cxc-yokohama
Designer Profile:
Innovating Tradition from Japan at Milano, Salone Satellite: Omi 3D Fabric and Its Illuminating Journey:
Discover the extraordinary potential of Omi 3D, a fabric that fuses the timeless elegance of traditional linen with state-of-the-art technology to create a truly innovative material with shape-memory capabilities. This is a celebration of blending heritage with modernity into a seamless product that inspires new possibilities from Japan.
Discover the extraordinary potential of Omi 3D, a fabric that fuses the timeless elegance of traditional linen with state-of-the-art technology to create a truly innovative material with shape-memory capabilities. This is a celebration of blending heritage with modernity into a seamless product that inspires new possibilities from Japan.
KURANOIE is a Tokyo-based design studio that was founded by three young and talented designers who are all 23 years old. These designers hail from diverse backgrounds and bring their unique experiences and perspectives to their work. Their creations are characterized by a profound understanding of aesthetics, functionality, and craftsmanship.
KURANOIE's designs are a reflection of the team's core essence, which is a blend of their cultural heritage, individuality, and creativity. The studio's philosophy is to break away from conventional design norms and create something that is both innovative and aesthetically pleasing.
Omi 3D is a new type of fabric that is revolutionizing the world of textile engineering. It has the unique ability to be heated and molded into any desired shape over and over again. This innovative fabric is a product of the exceptional craftsmanship that is at the heart of Omi Kamifu "Kibira", a highly respected brand known for its intricate textures that comes from the Koto region in Shiga Prefecture. Omi 3D takes traditional linen to new heights by adding more functionality and versatility to this already amazing fabric.
Omi 3D is a new type of fabric that is revolutionizing the world of textile engineering. It has the unique ability to be heated and molded into any desired shape over and over again. This innovative fabric is a product of the exceptional craftsmanship that is at the heart of Omi Kamifu "Kibira", a highly respected brand known for its intricate textures that comes from the Koto region in Shiga Prefecture. Omi 3D takes traditional linen to new heights by adding more functionality and versatility to this already amazing fabric.
The Ingenious Creation of Omi 3D:
Omi 3D is known for its captivating fabric called 'Kibira,' which boasts a sturdy texture made from hand-rolled hemp. This unique textile is produced on a specialized jibata loom and features a distinctively distorted texture, a testament to the skilled artisans who weave the hemp threads using only their fingers. Omi 3D has accomplished an extraordinary feat by incorporating resin threads into raw hemp, allowing the fabric to be shaped and molded using heat. This innovation enables individuals to create tailor-made hemp textile products.
Harnessing the transformative properties of "Omi 3D," the visionary minds at KURANOIE embarked on a design journey, culminating in a captivating series of lamp shapes. Exploring the fabric's inherent transparency, elasticity, and unique textures, each lampshade combines tradition and contemporary aesthetics, offering a radiant addition to modern living spaces.
Omi 3D represents more than a fabric; it epitomizes the harmonious convergence of tradition, innovation, and limitless possibilities. As we embark on this illuminating journey, the legacy of Omi Jofu continues to evolve, guided by the unwavering dedication of artisans and visionaries alike.
Coming up Exhibition:
Date | Tuesday 16th Apr. 2024 - Sunday 21rd Apr. 2024
Time | 9:30 ~ 18:30
Location| Rho, Fiera Milano
Salone Satellite (Pavillion 13-15), Booth No.C24
Designer Profile: (On the third picture):
KOHEI SHIRASHAKI (left) Designer/Textile/CMF
RYOGA YOSHIZAKO (center) Designer/Direction
KOKI KURAKAZU (right) Designer/Photo
KURANOIE is a Tokyo-based design studio that was founded by three young and talented designers, each with their unique experiences and perspectives. These designers, all 23 years old, bring a diverse range of backgrounds to their work, creating a rich tapestry of creativity. Their creations are a testament to their profound understanding of aesthetics, functionality, and craftsmanship.
Dazzling Brilliance: Atsushi Shindo Unveils Award-Winning HAORI Lighting Masterpiece at Ambiente 2024 in Frankfurt
An artistic endeavor that transcends the ordinary by combining the Haori, a traditional Japanese Kimono with the distinctive form of a lampshade. Light is elegantly controlled by the Haori, which elegantly encloses the luminous object within.
An artistic endeavor that transcends the ordinary by combining the Haori, a traditional Japanese Kimono with the distinctive form of a lampshade. Light is elegantly controlled by the Haori, which elegantly encloses the luminous object within. Shindo's jubilant and contented emotions when donning his first Haori inspired this unique creation. The timeless appeal of the "Kimono" and the refined contours of the Haori are ingeniously incorporated into the world of interior design, despite the scarcity of opportunities for wearing such traditional garments in our contemporary lives.
Complexity often prevails when creating intricate, artificial three-dimensional shapes. In contrast, Shindo's methodology introduces a simplicity that defies convention. In order to create the final, three-dimensional prototype, a two-dimensional pattern is cut from paper. As a result of this ingenious approach, replicable products can be created using a variety of materials. Due to the complexity of design and fabrication, creating intricate, artificial three-dimensional shapes can be challenging. Assembling and constructing it requires precise measurements, intricate detailing, and careful craftsmanship.Further complicating the endeavor is ensuring that the final product functions properly and meets the desired aesthetic standards.
A stick-type LED light source is detachable from the shade, housing the LED lights. A diverse collection of ambient tones is created by various Haoris, each with unique material properties. Through HAORI, the space is metamorphosed, offering a fresh aesthetic based on its surroundings. By replacing the shade material with artisanal materials such as leather, cloth, wood, rattan, and more, this transformation is achieved.
There are two distinctive shades in this exhibit, each offering a captivating narrative. Sculpted from sustainable aluminum, the first casts a gentle, tactile illumination into its surroundings with perforations. With opulent gloss and dignified elegance, the second uses a byproduct of beef cowhide.
The artist encourages you to appreciate the interplay between size and form in this presentation. Invoking comfort and tranquility, light gracefully permeates the Haori. The dimensions of the artwork are: 500mm x 700mm (solid form), 1370mm x 730mm (flat plate). KOBE LEATHER® TSUYU "PINK" leather, anodized aluminum plate, and LED lighting are the materials used.
Exhibit at 'Ambiente 2024', Germany
Atsushi Shindo's lighting work HAORI will be exhibited at Ambiente 2024, one of the world's largest lighting exhibitions in Frankfurt, Germany, for five days.
This year's Ambiente 2024 will take place from January 26th to 30th.
In April 2023, this work was presented at the Milano Salone, which was followed by an exhibition in Japan.
Details:
Ambiente 2024
Dates｜26-30 January 2024
Hours｜9:00〜18:00 （Until 17:00 on the last day.）
Location｜Messe Frankfurt, Ludwig-Erhard-Anlage 1, 60327 Frankfurt am Main, Germany
Booth｜J10H（Hall 3.1「TALENT」）
https://www.jp.messefrankfurt.com/tokyo/ja/events/consumer-goods-outgoing/Ambiente.html
※A 'visitor ticket' is required for entry. Please click on the QR code above for more information.
About the Designer
ATSUSHI SHINDO
Atsushi Shindo is a designer and artist born in 1991. Shindo graduated from Tokyo University of the Arts in 2015 and has been working as an interior designer for hotels, offices, and large commercial spaces, as well as working on personal projects. To explore the fundamental appeal of design and art, he has presented experimental products, spaces, and artwork. Shindo explores new values and beauty through everyday objects and materials.
Marq Omotesando One: Redefining Ultra-Luxury Living in Tokyo
We are thrilled to introduce Marq Omotesando One, an extraordinary residential development that has not only captivated the discerning eyes of investors but has also is the winning project in the Sky Design Awards 2023 gold in the architecture division. The Pinnacle of Luxury Living Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's fashionable Omotesando district, often referred to as the "Champs-Élysées of Tokyo," Marq Omotesando One stands as a testament to unparalleled sophistication and developed by the Baring Private Equity Asia.
We are thrilled to introduce Marq Omotesando One, an extraordinary residential development that has not only captivated the discerning eyes of investors but has also is the winning project in the Sky Design Awards 2023 gold in the architecture division.
Middle: David Hoggard, Managing Director Hong Kong Studio Partner London Studio
Right: Sky Design Awards 2023 Judges: Founding partner of Voith & Mactavish Architects LLP, President of the ICAA Philadelphia Chapter, the Board of the Design Leadership Foundation. (FAIA, LEED AP BD+C, IIDA)
The Pinnacle of Luxury Living Nestled in the heart of Tokyo's fashionable Omotesando district, often referred to as the "Champs-Élysées of Tokyo," Marq Omotesando One stands as a testament to unparalleled sophistication. Developed by the Baring Private Equity Asia, this low-rise gem comprises only 14 residences, including the pièce de résistance – a sprawling penthouse occupying the entire top floor and rooftop, showcasing over 600 square meters of opulent living space.
A Residence Beyond Compare This award-winning development boasts timber-decked balconies, floating terraces, and floor-to-ceiling glazing that seamlessly integrate with the surrounding greenery, providing an exquisite blend of nature and contemporary design. The penthouse, the epitome of luxury, features four expansive terraces, a private rooftop swimming pool, and interiors that prioritize both style and comfort.
Tokyo: A Hub for International Investors Traditionally overlooked by high-net-worth foreign investors, Tokyo has now emerged as a global real estate hotspot. Savvy investors are drawn to the cosmopolitan lifestyle, favorable currency exchange rates, and the rise of ultra-chic developments designed to cater to the needs of international high-net-worth individuals.
Unrivaled Comfort and Amenities No expense has been spared in crafting the penthouse, which boasts the finest finishes and amenities, including a Gaggenau refrigerator/freezer room, double Miele ovens, and a private lift for discreet access. Residents enjoy a 24/7 concierge service, porters, valets, and a back-of-house team, ensuring a superior residential experience akin to exclusive five-star hospitality.
Omotesando: The Epitome of Elegance Situated in the exclusive district of Omotesando, Marq Omotesando One offers proximity to high-end international brands, Michelin-starred restaurants, and the vibrant culture of Harajuku. The surrounding area reflects elements of tranquility inspired by the nearby Meiji Jingu Shrine and Yoyogi Park, creating a harmonious blend of urban luxury and natural serenity.
Tokyo's Rise in Luxury Real Estate Recent reports indicate a surge in demand for downtown residential units, with Bloomberg highlighting the increasing interest of the super-rich in Tokyo's ultra-luxury homes. Factors such as sweeping views, swimming pools, and 24-hour valet services have contributed to the city's appeal, coupled with a weaker yen and low interest rates.
Invest in Elegance, Invest in Marq Omotesando One As Tokyo continues to captivate the global elite, Marq Omotesando One stands as a beacon of luxury, offering an unrivaled living experience in one of the world's most dynamic cities. Embrace the epitome of sophistication and make Marq Omotesando One your distinguished residence in Tokyo.
For more information:
For design, please visit: https://studiopdp.com