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In Profile:
EY DESIGN (Studio del Sol LLC)

In Profile:

EY DESIGN (Studio del Sol LLC)

Shortlisted: Luxury Residence - Asia Pacific Award

The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026

EY DESIGN

Name: Emi Yamaguchi
Company Name: EY DESIGN, Studio del Sol LLC
Position Within Company: Founder & Principal Designer
Website: https://eydesign.jp/

Tell us a little about your background in design:
I began my career as a management consultant before pursuing a creative path through culinary arts and table styling, followed by experience in an art gallery, and later studying interior design at The Interior Design School in London.

Today, my studio creates bespoke residential interiors, drawing on this multidisciplinary background to offer a holistic design service encompassing interior design, art curation, and tableware selection.

How would you describe your personal design style?:
My design style combines the beauty of Western proportion with a distinctly Japanese sensibility, enriched by bold and unexpected elements that celebrate the individuality of each client.

Where does your design inspiration come from?:
Travel is one of my sources of design inspiration allowing me to immerse myself in nature, history, and culture.

In what direction do you feel that design is moving towards in a general sense?:
As AI becomes increasingly integrated into everyday life, I believe people will increasingly seek homes that feel personal, authentic, and crafted by human hands.

Name five key themes to consider when approaching design in the future. :
Curiosity, Craftsmanship, Individuality, Authenticity and Longevity

If you could offer one piece of advice when it comes to designing, what would it be?:
Create spaces that people will love not only on the day they are completed, but for many years to come.

How important are The International Design & Architecture Awards?:
The Awards have long been an important aspiration for me. Being recognised would be a wonderful opportunity to celebrate this achievement with my clients and project team.

What projects are you currently working on?:
Current projects include plans for the renovation of a rural Japanese home and the interior design of a high-rise residence in Tokyo.

EY DESIGN
EY DESIGN
EY DESIGN
EY DESIGN

What was your favourite project to work on and why?:
Villa Infinity was my favourite project because of the exceptional client, talented project team and the opportunity to create a truly bespoke residence over several years.

What was your most challenging project to work on and why?:
Villa Infinity was the most challenging project because of its scale, complexity and lengthy design process.

Which products/services could you not live without when designing?:
Material samples and showrooms where materials can be experienced firsthand. They are essential to creating interiors with depth, balance and authenticity.

What are your aims and goals for the next twelve months?:
My aim is to deepen my understanding of traditional Japanese architecture, craftsmanship and cultural heritage, and to incorporate these elements into contemporary residential interiors.

Your most treasured possession?:
My family.
Nothing is more valuable than their love and support.

Your favourite holiday destination?:
The Japanese countryside, a treasure trove of natural beauty, hot springs and seasonal cuisine.

Your favourite hotel, restaurant & bar?:
Chikurintei, a serene ryokan in Saga, Japan

Your favourite book, film & song?:
Les Misérables

Your favourite food and drink?:
Sushi and sparkling wine.

Your favourite way to spend an afternoon?:
Visiting a beautiful garden, historic building or art exhibition, followed by a leisurely meal with family or friends.

If you weren’t in this sector, what would your alternative profession be?:
Whatever path I had taken, I would have found my way to interior design.

Architect: Katsuma Tai Architect & Associates

Interior Architecture: Tai and Associates

Interior Design, FF&E, art direction and styling: EY DESIGN

Lighting Design: Light Collab Japan

Construction: Sasahara Corporation

Photography: Koji Fujii / TOREAL Inc.

EY DESIGN has been shortlisted for Luxury Residence – Asia Pacific Award in The International Design & Architecture Awards 2026.

EY DESIGN
EY DESIGN

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