Satoshi Umeno

LEGENDARY INTERVIEW

Design Legends ("DL") had the distinct honour to interview legendary designer Satoshi Umeno ("SU") for their original perspective and innovative approach to design as well as their creative lifestyle, we are very pleased to share our interview with our distinguished readers.

DL: Could you please tell us a bit about your design background and education?

SU : My father was a carpenter and my mother was a calligrapher. My parents inspired me to create three-dimensional designs and graphics.

DL: What motivates you to design in general, why did you become a designer?

SU : I think my parents have a big influence on me.

DL: Did you choose to become a designer, or you were forced to become one?

SU : I chose to become a designer.

DL: What do you design, what type of designs do you wish to design more of?

SU : We design products with a focus on products. I like the design of furniture and lighting.

DL: What should young designers do to become a design legend like you?

SU : In order to train your ability to discern things, you need to acquire the ability to see through not only the form but also the essence.

DL: What distinguishes between a good designer and a great designer?

SU : A good designer can see through the essence.

DL: What makes a good design a really good design, how do you evaluate good design?

SU : I think good design is one that stimulates the senses.

DL: What is the value of good design? Why should everyone invest in good design?

SU : Good design can be enjoyed in three ways: seeing it, using it, and feeling it.

DL: What would you design and who would you design for if you had the time?

SU : When I have time, I cook for my family. You can eat what you designed.

DL: What is the dream project you haven’t yet had time to realize?

SU : I want to create a space that combines a cafe, hotel, and shop.

DL: What is your secret recipe of success in design, what is your secret ingredient?

SU : To be successful, you need a design that makes both the creator and the user happy.

DL: Who are some other design masters and legends you get inspired from?

SU : Not in particular.

DL: What are your favorite designs by other designers, why do you like them?

SU : Nothing in particular.

DL: What is your greatest design, which aspects of that design makes you think it is great?

SU : I can't choose, I think they are all equally good designs.

DL: How could people improve themselves to be better designers, what did you do?

SU : It's about listening to people. Designers must understand and provide the best answers.

DL: How do you define design, what is design for you?

SU : I think design is a tool. You need the right designer.

DL: Who helped you to reach these heights, who was your biggest supporter?

SU : My client and my wife. They support me not only with the design, but also with me.

DL: What helped you to become a great designer?

SU : I think my experience abroad was useful. I have participated in many international exhibitions.

DL: What were the obstacles you faced before becoming a design master?

SU : Staff education

DL: How do you think designers should present their work?

SU : The designer should create a design that accurately conveys his or her intentions.

DL: What’s your next design project, what should we expect from you in future?

SU : There are many, but we have carefully designed them to address the issues at hand.

DL: What’s your ultimate goal as a designer?

SU : I would like to not only design, but also manufacture and sell.

DL: What people expect from an esteemed designer such as yourself?

SU : We are looking forward to new designs that incorporate the designers' sensibilities without being bound by things.

DL: How does design help create a better society?

SU : Good design can enrich your life and your soul. I think design is a wonderful tool for society to bring about change in our daily lives.

DL: What are you currently working on that you are especially excited about?

SU : We are working on designs that create delicious food and drinks.

DL: Which design projects gave you the most satisfaction, why?

SU : It's difficult to choose. Each of them was a great project.

DL: What would you like to see changed in design industry in the coming years?

SU : I would like them to consider environmentally friendly materials and manufacturing methods.

DL: Where do you think the design field is headed next?

SU : I think I will go into the field of virtual space and anti-aging.

DL: How long does it take you to finalize a design project?

SU : It will take about 3 months to 1 year.

DL: When you have a new design project, where do you start?

SU : Think from a concept and sketch repeatedly.

DL: What is your life motto as a designer?

SU : They assess things, act as a filter for society, and produce good things.

DL: Do you think design sets the trends or trends set the designs?

SU : Trends often determine design.

DL: What is the role of technology when you design?

SU : Technology is evolving to get closer to the ideal design.

DL: What kind of design software and equipment do you use in your work?

SU : Illustrator, 3D printer, CAD, etc.

DL: What is the role of the color, materials and ambient in design?

SU : Each has a role, but all have an important role to play.

DL: What do you wish people to ask about your design?

SU : I would like to hear about the design process.

DL: When you see a new great design or product what comes into your mind?

SU : Think about how your design differs.

DL: Who is your ideal design partner? Do you believe in co-design?

SU : You are responsible for your own design. No collaborative partner required.

DL: Which people you interacted had the most influence on your design?

SU : I would like to interact with young designers. About the future.

DL: Which books you read had the most effect on your design?

SU : I don't read many books. I often look at photos.

DL: How did you develop your skills as a master designer?

SU : I worked hard to cultivate the ability to see things and see through the essence of things.

DL: Irrelative of time and space, who you would want to meet, talk and discuss with?

SU : I would like to talk with designers of my generation from all over the world.

DL: How do you feel about all the awards and recognition you had, is it hard to be famous?

SU : I'm glad that you appreciate it. But becoming famous is difficult.

DL: What is your favorite color, place, food, season, thing and brand?

SU : I like gold, the sea, summer, and fish.

DL: Please tell us a little memoir, a funny thing you had experienced as a designer?

SU : I happened to stop by a store and saw someone buying a product that I had designed.

DL: What makes your day great as a designer, how do you motivate yourself?

SU : Looking at the works in the atelier inspires you to take on the next challenge.

DL: When you were a little child, was it obvious that you would become a great designer?

SU : I didn't think so at all.

DL: What do you think about future; what do you see will happen in thousand years from now?

SU : I don't think there will be any humans on Earth in 1000 years.

DL: Please tell us anything you wish your fans to know about you, your design and anything else?

SU : My designs are born from questioning and respecting things. I would be happy if I could convey this to someone who can relate.