F5 Exclusive: Jun Aizaki Talks Motorcycles, Yunomi, Knives & His Love for Plants!

From a young age, Jun Aizaki found joy in constructing LEGO buildings and drafting imaginative designs. His father, a journalist, often took him traveling, which profoundly influenced his creative perspective. “The diverse foods, architecture, and vibrant atmospheres ignited a curiosity about the world that has never left me,” he reflects. “Those early experiences undoubtedly shaped my career path in design, and I might have never left Japan otherwise.”

While Aizaki at times fancied the idea of becoming a manga artist, his primary ambition was to pursue architecture. He relocated to Brooklyn, New York, and earned his undergraduate degree from Pratt Institute. Initially, he worked as a designer at Rockwell Group before establishing his own multidisciplinary studio, CRÈME, in 2004. His studio focuses on a variety of projects, ranging from interior designs for hospitality to product design.

Aizaki’s design philosophy involves storytelling as much as it does creating. He adopts a comprehensive approach that ensures cohesiveness within the space or between the user and the object. He draws inspiration not just from his favorite places, but also from his clients and his network of artists and craftsmen.

Aizaki is prolific in generating ideas and employs both traditional and modern tools to capture them swiftly. He prefers writing in paper notebooks, valuing the tactile connection of handwriting, but also utilizes digital tools like the Procreate app on his iPad to seamlessly integrate text with visual concepts such as patterns and architectural plans.

Additionally, Aizaki has a passion for pottery, a craft he has been involved with since his student days. He values the hands-on nature of pottery, which contrasts yet parallels the unpredictability found in architecture. “Both fields involve elements of unpredictability,” he observes. “Despite careful design, the final outcome is influenced by materials, chemistry, and collaboration, which I find immensely rewarding.”

Today, Jun Aizaki shares his insights through Friday Five!

1. My Motorcycle

Motorcycles have always been a part of my life. They symbolize freedom and efficiency, allowing for quick movement and task completion. I am deeply interested in mobility solutions, from bikes to public transit, and am keen on exploring design projects that enhance urban transportation and community connectivity.

2. Knife Collection

The traditional Japanese knife from my family home is a cherished item. Its reliability and precision epitomize the excellence of fine craftsmanship. Handling such a well-crafted tool brings a strong sense of satisfaction and is a reminder of the value of meticulous craftsmanship, discipline, and the understated beauty of well-made objects.

3. Kurzgesagt YouTube Channel

I admire Kurzgesagt for their ability to distill complex concepts into beautiful, understandable animations. Their video “What Is Life?” particularly resonates with me, as it explores profound philosophical questions in a clear, engaging manner. Their unique blend of design, science, and creativity is both enlightening and inspiring.

4. Yunomi

My connection to ceramics is deep-rooted, influenced by my mother’s hometown of Hagi, known for its historic Hagiyaki pottery. A specific yunomi, used frequently by my father, is especially significant to me. It is marked by the traces of its use and history, embodying the wabi-sabi philosophy of beauty in imperfection. This personal piece connects me to my heritage and continues to inspire my own ceramic works and collections.

5. Plants

I surround my workspace with plants as they symbolize resilience and growth. The fascinating ability of a simple leaf to root and grow independently is a constant reminder of nature’s cycle and resilience. Caring for plants brings a slice of nature into daily life, which is a concept we strive to incorporate in our designs at CRÈME, emphasizing natural elements wherever possible.

 

Works by Jun Aizaki and CRÈME:

Brooklyn Townhouse

This Brooklyn townhouse renovation showcases a design centered around subtlety, authenticity of materials, and intricate craftsmanship. The exterior, clad in reclaimed redwood from an old water tower, introduces a tone of warmth and intention. Inside, the space is a blend of traditional Japanese elements and modern design, balancing textures, natural light, and simplicity, with a whimsical treehouse in the garden adding a playful touch.

The Gourd Project

In The Gourd Project, CRÈME uses gourds grown in molds to create sustainable, biodegradable drinkware as an alternative to single-use plastics. This initiative revisits an ancient craft through a contemporary perspective, focusing on sustainability and innovative design.

Timber Bridge

The proposed Timber Bridge by CRÈME aims to connect Brooklyn and Queens with a design that prioritizes pedestrian and cyclist traffic while fostering community ties and enhancing urban green spaces.

RedFarm Austin

At RedFarm in Austin, CRÈME crafted a design that complements the restaurant’s innovative approach to Chinese cuisine. The space is designed to feel vibrant and communal, reflecting both the local vibe and RedFarm’s diverse influences.