In Profile: DESIGN STUDIO CROW CO., LTD

Name: Taiji Fujimoto

Company: DESIGN STUDIO CROW CO., LTD

Position within company: CEO/ Executive Director

Website: https://www.studio-crow.jp/

Tell us a little about your background in design (education, experience, etc)

During my youth, I gained various experiences as an on-site contractor whilst studying at Nagoya Designers Institute.  After graduation, I started working for Super Potato in 2005 where I was in charge of inbound and outbound Hyatt hotels and Muji retail stores.  In 2009, I then worked for Hirsch Bedner Associates (HBA) Tokyo office where I was involved with Lotte Hotels and residential projects. In 2013, I established DESIGN STUDIO CROW.  The company offers design services for various commercial spaces, mainly accommodation facilities and restaurants, both in Japan and abroad.

How would you describe your personal design style?

The company places great importance on understanding the briefs from the clients, learning about the characteristics and culture of each project area, and considering what is comfortable for the guests who gather there and what added value is required.  Based on these considerations, the company proposes high-quality environments based on a consistent concept, from layout to space, furniture and colour schemes.

We offer design that will be loved for a long time. We always in pursuit of designs that create ‘surprises’ and ’emotions’ that go beyond mere decoration.

Where does your design inspiration come from?

Design inspiration is often drawn from environments where people gather and bustle. Festivals, event halls, theatres and bars.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?

A coherent design based on the concept of the project, with a narrative development for the series of experiences that guests have at the location.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in 2024 and beyond.

Site-specific / Surprise / Artistic / Unusual / Wellness

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to design schemes, what would it be?

I would advise to learn and research deeply regarding the local characteristics and culture of each project area, and to have a well-thought-out, ‘site-specific’ concept-making process that considers what added value is required for the guests.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?

It is a great way for owners, operators and others around the world to see how interior design and environmental concepts are evolving in different locations, and for designers to learn more about high quality hospitality.

What projects are you currently working on?

Various projects are underway, including luxury boutique hotels, resorts, Japanese ryokans and luxury residences.

What was your favorite project to work on and why?

Hotel Sosei Sapporo M Gallery

Reason.

I was very attached to the idea of designing an entire hotel for a five-star hotel.  It has been my dream since I became involved with interior design.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?

Swissôtel Nankai Osaka

Reason.

At the time, it was my first experience to work on such a large-scale project and as a result, there was many things to learn.  Although we are currently involved in many hotel design projects, this project was a turning point for me.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?

Required services to gather information on the surrounding environment of the proposed site.