1Please give us a brief bio of yourself and your design background.
I am Takeshi Nagata, and I am an interior designer. I established an interior design office in Japan called eleven nine and this year marks the 20th anniversary!
2What made you become/why did you choose to become a designer/artist?
I have loved drawing ever since I was young. When I was in in high school, I became passionate in household DIY projects and decided, "I want to become an interior designer!"
3Tell us more about your business/company, job profile, and what you do.
I specialize in commercial design. This includes interior design for restaurants, retail stores, beauty salons, clinics, houses, and a variety more!
4What does “design” mean to you?
Something that enriches life.
5What’s your favorite kind of design and why?
The Apple Magic Mouse. It's easy to use!
6To you, what makes a “good” design?
A design where the creator's intention is communicated.
7Describe your design style and its main characteristics.
I am skilled with bold spatial compositions and facade design.
8Tell us about your design process.
Firstly, I would converse with the client to understand their needs and expectations. Next, I make a visit to the construction site to understand and absorb the local environment and context. Shortly after that, I select a central theme and begin drafting the design.
9Do you think your country and its cultural heritage has an impact on your design process?
Whenever I visit traditional Japanese shrines, I find myself profoundly touched by the exceptional craftsmanship and dedication of the anonymous artisans.
I believe that this DNA is, to some extent, incorporated into me as a contemporary living individual!
10Congratulations! As the winner of the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, what does it mean to you and your company and team to receive this award distinction?
It is a great honor to win in the MUSE Design Awards!
I believe this award is a testament to everyone's support and collaboration that has brought me this far in my career. I will continue to work hard and contribute to society.
All I can say is I am very grateful!!
11Can you explain a bit about the winning work you entered into the 2023 MUSE Design Awards, and why you chose to enter this project?
In the 2022 MUSE Design Awards, in the Interior Design - Retails, Shops Department Stores & Mall category, our projects ANNIVERSARY WORLD and KOBE YUKIZAKI both were recognized with Silver Medals.
This time, I wanted to see how our project OSU YUKIZAKI would be evaluated.
12What was the biggest challenge with this project?
The biggest challenge was designing a Japanese-style VIP room.
13How has winning an Award developed your practice/career?
Having the completed projects recognized and appreciated by clients and all involved has been extremely gratifying. This recognition has boosted our motivation and that of those around us, leading to various further positive developments.
14What are your top three (3) favorite things about our industry?
Enriching lives through space.
The realization of ideas.
Creating designs that people actually use.
15What makes your country specifically, unique in the design industry?
Japan is unique in producing minimalist design.
16Where do you see the evolution of design industry going over the next 5-10 years?
The introduction of ethical materials.
17If you were a student entering this industry or an aspiring MUSE Design Awards submitter, what advice would you give them?
I think it is good to express the identity of one's own country.
18What resources would you recommend to someone who wants to improve their skills in the design industry?
Visit actual spaces. Travel and experience various things, and really feel them.
19Tell us something you have never told anyone else
I want to design a hotel!
20Who has inspired you in your life and why?
Alvar Aalto. I was very moved when I visited his studio in Finland.
21What is your key to success? Any parting words of wisdom?
Perseverance is power.
22Do you have anything else you would like to add to the interview?
Thank you very much for awarding us with a Gold Medal! We are eternally grateful for this recognition.
