Cultural journey, this time Japan

Cultural journey, this time Japan, the country where I learned a lot from my youth when I first started to learn about the resort industry, about the art of joinery timber, about the typical Japanese ergonomics in design

When mentioning Japan, it is impossible not to mention the art of resort. From the quiet Zen gardens, where every stone and every blade of grass is meticulously arranged to create absolute harmony, to the traditional onsen (hot springs), where people seek relaxation and purification of both body and spirit. All are imbued with the Zen philosophy, promoting minimalism, tranquility and connection with nature.

I learned that resort is not just about luxury or comfort, but also about creating a space where people can truly find peace, recharge and connect with themselves. This has shaped my perspective on designing relaxing spaces, prioritizing comfort, sustainability and harmony with the surrounding environment.

The traditional Japanese art of carpentry, also known as Joinery Timber, is a living testament to meticulousness, patience and masterful technique. Instead of using nails, screws or glue, Japanese carpenters have developed hundreds of complex wood joints, connecting wooden planks together firmly and beautifully. Each joint not only ensures the durability of the structure but is also a work of art that contains ingenuity and intelligence. Learning about Joinery Timber has taught me the importance of precision, durability and beauty in every detail. It encourages me to seek design solutions that are not only aesthetically pleasing but also highly practical and capable of maintaining value over time.

Ergonomics is the science that studies the relationship between humans and the working environment, aiming to optimize comfort and efficiency. The Japanese have applied ergonomics deeply into their lives, from arranging compact but convenient living spaces, to designing everyday items to best suit the human body. The attention to the smallest details to create the best user experience is something I always appreciate and learn from.

My knowledge of Japanese ergonomics has helped me realize that design is not just about creating beautiful things, but also about creating useful, easy-to-use things that bring maximum comfort to users. That is why I always put users at the center of all my projects.

Japan is not just a country, but a great school. Their cultural values, philosophies and traditional techniques have opened up a new worldview for me, shaped my career path and inspired me to constantly learn and create. The cultural journey with Japan will continue to be an important part of my life and work.