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Interview with Nobuaki Miyashita |
Home > Designer Interviews > Nobuaki Miyashita |
Editor Frank Scott (FS) from DesignPRWire has interviewed designer Nobuaki Miyashita (NM) for A’ Design Award and Competition. You can access the full profile of Nobuaki Miyashita by clicking here.
FS: 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?
NM: I've been immersed in architectural design for nearly three decades, having been inspired by my uncle, a distinguished architect. From a young age, I was fascinated by the impact of spaces on human experiences, which led me to pursue architecture as a profession.
FS: Can you tell us more about your company / design studio?
NM: MR STUDIO Co., Ltd., established in 2017, focuses on diverse architectural projects—from residential to large urban developments. Our approach emphasizes innovative concept creation and detailed design development.
FS: What is "design" for you?
NM: For me, design is the art of crafting spaces that not only fulfill functional needs but also enhance human interaction and well-being. It involves a balance of aesthetics, functionality, and sustainability.
FS: What kinds of works do you like designing most?
NM: I am most passionate about designing buildings that become iconic landmarks. These projects challenge us to innovate and often become symbols of their locales, influencing the architectural narrative of entire cities.
FS: What is your most favorite design, could you please tell more about it?
NM: One of my favorite projects is the "Hotel Marina Gold" in Vietnam. Its design, inspired by luxury cruise ships and spacecraft, represents a confluence of innovation and luxury, making it a landmark project in our portfolio.
FS: What was the first thing you designed for a company?
NM: The first major project I designed was a commercial facility in Tokyo. It was a challenging yet exhilarating experience that set the tone for my focus on impactful architectural solutions.
FS: What is your favorite material / platform / technology?
NM: I favor using sustainable materials and advanced technologies that enhance the efficiency and aesthetic value of our designs. Innovations in green building materials and smart technologies are particularly intriguing.
FS: When do you feel the most creative?
NM: My creativity peaks during the early conceptual stages of a project, where possibilities are endless and we can dream big before grounding our ideas in reality.
FS: Which aspects of a design do you focus more during designing?
NM: I focus on ensuring that every design is contextually appropriate, sustainable, and visually compelling. The interplay between form and function is critical in my design process.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when you design?
NM: Designing is profoundly exhilarating; it’s a process filled with anticipation and creativity, as we translate abstract concepts into tangible realities.
FS: What kind of emotions do you feel when your designs are realized?
NM: Seeing a completed project is immensely fulfilling and joyful. It represents the culmination of hard work and creative vision, especially when the design resonates well with its users and the community.
FS: What makes a design successful?
NM: A design is successful when it achieves a harmonious balance between aesthetic appeal, functional efficiency, and environmental sustainability.
FS: When judging a design as good or bad, which aspects do you consider first?
NM: The first aspects I consider are the design’s functionality, the innovation it brings, and its environmental impact. These elements are crucial for determining the value of a design.
FS: From your point of view, what are the responsibilities of a designer for society and environment?
NM: Designers hold the responsibility to create ethically and sustainably, considering the socio-economic and environmental impacts of their creations.
FS: How do you think the "design field" is evolving? What is the future of design?
NM: The design field is rapidly evolving with a stronger emphasis on sustainability and technology. I foresee a future where design and technology seamlessly integrate to create smarter, more sustainable environments.
FS: When was your last exhibition and where was it? And when do you want to hold your next exhibition?
NM: Our last exhibition was in Tokyo, showcasing sustainable urban development projects. I am looking forward to our next exhibition, planned in Europe, focusing on innovative architectural designs that integrate cultural elements.
FS: Where does the design inspiration for your works come from? How do you feed your creativity? What are your sources of inspirations?
NM: Inspiration often comes from nature, technology, and historical contexts. I nurture my creativity through travel, reading, and engaging with other forms of art and science.
FS: 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?
NM: My style emphasizes minimalism, functionality, and integration with the environment. I explore this style because it aligns with both modern needs and the traditional Japanese aesthetic of simplicity and harmony.
FS: 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?
NM: Living in Japan, with its rich cultural heritage and attention to detail, greatly influences my designs. The challenge is to blend this meticulous craftsmanship with modern design demands.
FS: How do you work with companies?
NM: I collaborate closely with companies to ensure that the architectural solutions we provide align perfectly with their identity and strategic objectives. It’s about creating a synergy between architectural innovation and business goals.
FS: What are your suggestions to companies for working with a designer? How can companies select a good designer?
NM: Companies should look for designers who not only have a compelling portfolio but also demonstrate a deep understanding of the company’s mission and the specific challenges it faces.
FS: Can you talk a little about your design process?
NM: Our design process is iterative and collaborative, involving extensive research and stakeholder engagement to ensure that each design is innovative, practical, and contextually appropriate.
FS: What are 5 of your favorite design items at home?
NM: My home features a carefully curated collection of Japanese ceramics, minimalist furniture, and an array of architectural books that inspire and ground my design philosophy.
FS: Can you describe a day in your life?
NM: My day usually begins with a team meeting to discuss ongoing projects, followed by design reviews and client consultations. I also dedicate time to researching new materials and technologies.
FS: Could you please share some pearls of wisdom for young designers? What are your suggestions to young, up and coming designers?
NM: Remain curious and open to learning. Embrace challenges as opportunities to innovate and always strive to understand the broader impact of your designs on society and the environment.
FS: From your perspective, what would you say are some positives and negatives of being a designer?
NM: The positive aspects include the ability to create and innovate, while the challenges often lie in meeting the diverse expectations of clients and stakeholders.
FS: What is your "golden rule" in design?
NM: Always design with the end-user in mind—functionality and aesthetics should enhance the lives of those who interact with your creations.
FS: What skills are most important for a designer?
NM: Critical thinking, creativity, technical proficiency, and an understanding of sustainable practices are essential for any designer today.
FS: Which tools do you use during design? What is inside your toolbox? Such as software, application, hardware, books, sources of inspiration etc.?
NM: My toolbox includes architectural software like AutoCAD and SketchUp, a sketchbook for initial concepts, and an array of design journals and sustainability guides.
FS: Designing can sometimes be a really time consuming task, how do you manage your time?
NM: I prioritize tasks based on urgency and complexity, delegate effectively, and use technology to streamline the design process.
FS: How long does it take to design an object from beginning to end?
NM: The time it takes to design an object can vary greatly, depending on the scale and complexity, but we always aim to optimize our timelines without compromising quality.
FS: What is the most frequently asked question to you, as a designer?
NM: The most frequent question I get is about the inspiration behind my designs, particularly how we incorporate cultural elements so seamlessly.
FS: What was your most important job experience?
NM: Leading the design of a multi-functional urban development in Tokyo was a pivotal experience, teaching me the intricacies of large-scale sustainable architecture.
FS: Who are some of your clients?
NM: Our clients range from private sector investors to public institutions, all seeking innovative and sustainable architectural solutions.
FS: What type of design work do you enjoy the most and why?
NM: I particularly enjoy designing cultural facilities because they allow for expressive architectural solutions that reflect and enhance community identity.
FS: What are your future plans? What is next for you?
NM: I am looking forward to expanding our firm's international presence, bringing our unique blend of traditional Japanese aesthetics and modern design to a global clientele.
FS: Do you work as a team, or do you develop your designs yourself?
NM: We operate as a team, but I am deeply involved in all major projects, ensuring that each design reflects our firm’s highest standards.
FS: Do you have any works-in-progress being designed that you would like to talk about?
NM: We are currently working on a sustainable residential development in Tokyo, aiming to integrate advanced eco-friendly technologies and traditional Japanese design elements.
FS: How can people contact you?
NM: I can be reached through our company's website, where potential clients and collaborators can also view our portfolio and learn more about our services.
FS: Any other things you would like to cover that have not been covered in these questions?
NM: I would like to emphasize the importance of cultural and environmental considerations in modern architecture, which not only respect but also enhance the sites where we build.
FS: Thank you for providing us with this opportunity to interview you.
A’ Design Award and Competitions grants rights to press members and bloggers to use parts of this interview. This interview is provided as it is; DesignPRWire and A' Design Award and Competitions cannot be held responsible for the answers given by participating designers.
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