IN FOCUS
In focus - Kojiro Kitada
Kojiro Kitada is the Japanese woodworker and craftsman located in Osaka. From his
workshop in the town of Taishi, he creates sculptural wood furniture that merges traditional
craftsmanship methods and contemporary forms.
Together, we discussed his creative process and explored the craft behind the custom wood
furniture designed for the Shibuya flagship store
How would you describe your design aesthetic and what drives your work?
I aim to create pieces that capture both the organic charm of the material and the structured beauty of craftsmanship. Working with wood is full of discoveries; observing these is a joy and a driving force for me.
What drew you to wood as a material, and how did that passion evolve into your profession as a
woodworker?
When I was a carpenter—especially during my time as a temple carpenter—I gained extensive experience working with wood and came to appreciate its charm. Back then, the wood I worked with was mostly carefully selected, uniform material with few irregularities.
Now, I create pieces that focus on the natural character and properties of the wood itself. I am particularly drawn to the growth rings formed over many years, as they embody the history of the tree.
Could you tell us about your initial inspiration for the collaboration with Tom Wood? Was there a specific element of the brand’s design language that resonated with you?
Tom Wood’s jewellery has a bold yet delicate aesthetic, and I felt that its contemporary designs are brought to life through exceptional craftsmanship.
Describe the creative process behind the seating group for the Shibuya store, what materials and techniques did you use?
“I use Japanese cedar and zelkova wood as my materials. The production method is simple: carving the shape out of a single block of wood. For the zelkova high stool created for this project, I considered its overall presence and proportions while also designing the seat and backrest to achieve a functional balance.”
What is your take on the value of craftsmanship?
I believe value lies in the unique character of natural materials that cannot be controlled by human hands.
Tell us about the craftsmanship behind your pieces, which traditional techniques were used in the design process?
I incorporate the timber-joinery techniques I learned during my time as a temple carpenter. Many of the tools I use today are the same ones I used back then.
How does nature and your environment shape the way you work with materials?
My workshop is located inside a sawmill where logs are cut, so there are always plenty of raw logs around. Witnessing the transformation of wood into industrial products is incredibly inspiring.
“(...) Working with wood is full of discoveries; observing these is a joy and a driving force for me.”
How does nature and your environment shape the way you work with materials?
My workshop is located inside a sawmill where logs are cut, so there are always plenty of raw logs around. Witnessing the transformation of wood into industrial products is incredibly inspiring.
What do you hope people will feel when they encounter your pieces in store?
I hope you will appreciate both the charm created by nature in the wood and the charm born from human craftsmanship.
As a designer visiting Shibuya, what specific details or energy in this neighbourhood do you find most inspiring?
“I felt a tremendous passion in the attitude of those who strive to convey their ideas and sentiments—whether they are individuals or businesses—and in the attitude of those who seek to absorb them”
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