Where They Create / Japan | Paul Barbera | By Lee Fleming

The latest publication by photographer Paul Barbera entitled 'Where They Create /Japan' offers a holistic view into Japan's design culture as he goes behind-the-scenes to document the environments and working processes of the most creative minds in Japan.

This volume of the 'Where They Create' series takes on a different approach by exploring the theme of his series through geographical locales. Through the lens of creative spaces belonging to the likes of Kenya Hara, Kengo Kuma, Tokujin Yoshioka, Engineered Garments and Nendo to name but a few. Barbera chronicles his journey as he experiences contemporary Japanese design and art culture first hand. Designed by FRAME Publishers and written by Kanae Hasegawa, Where They Create /Japan is a bookshelf must for the IDMC° team.

Read more about the Where They Create /Japan publication by visiting Paul Barbera's website.

AuthaGraph World Map | Hajime Narukawa | Kanagawa (JAP) | By Lee Fleming

We recently came across the AuthaGraph world map, designed by Japanese architect Hajime Narukawa. Having broken the planet into 96 equal parts, Narukawa combined different projections of the Earth to create a globe-like tetrahedron that unpacks into a rectangular map. The AuthaGraph world map displays shape and size with the precision of the Dymaxion map, but remains rectangular, just like the Mercator.

To find out more check out Narukawa's TED talk and/or visit the AuthaGraph website.

Hitohari Handmade bags by Masahiko Fukuda | Furano, Hokkaido (JAP) | By Lee Fleming

We’re relentlessly on the lookout for well-made luggage such as these fine articles from Japanese bag maker Hitohari. Founded in 2006 by Yokohama-born Masahiko Fukuda, Hitohari started from a personal need for a bicycle bag while commuting for his studies at Hachinohe Institute of Technology, Aomori.

Residing in Furano (Hokkaido), Hitohari is a one man brand with a conscious philosophy of scrap and craftsmanship. Taking thrown away, discard materials, Fukuda collects unwanted scraps to create his handmade bags and everyday carriers with distinct styles such as the Suso (made from off cuts of denim) and Mosiac (patchwork shoulder bag).

Featured above: Camp Tote (H 42cm, W 68cm, D 36cm) | Storage | Market Tote (H 38cm, W 28cm, D 17cm) | Roll Top

To view all of Hitohari’s handmade collection visit the website.

Koji Tsutsui Architect & Associates | InBetween House | Karuizawa (JAP) | By Lee Fleming

Located in Karuizawa, a laid-back town situated at the foot of Mt. Asama-yama in South-eastern Nagano is the InBetween House, a private residence designed by acclaimed architect Koji Tsutsui whom having spent several years at Tadao Ando Architect & Associates currently has architectural practices divided between San Francisco and Tokyo.

Inspired by the soaring karamatsu pine trees and alpine scenery, the InBetween House was imagined by its owners as a blend of Philip Johnson and Junzo Yoshimura. Referencing classic nature-infused Japanese architecture, the Inbetween House is actually five separate cabins interconnected and shaded by sloping roofs, Tsutsui designed the Karuizawa dwelling to take advantage of the topography and picturesque views, it also metaphorically represents the homeowners’ divide between a bustling Tokyo city life and rural surroundings.

To view Koji Tsutsui Architect & Associates portfolio visit their website. Photography by Iwan Baan.

Manastash | Paper Stadium Jacket | Seattle (USA) | By Lee Fleming

When searching for functional and durable outdoor clothing, look no further than Japanese-influenced label Manastash. Founded in Seattle, USA in 1993, Manastash have stayed true to their underlying philosophy to create ‘the best possible clothing’ using sustainable materials. Eco-friendly fabrications such as hemp or recycled fleece feature in each Manastash collection but it was the Paper Stadium Jacket (pictured) that recently caught our eye. Crafted from custom printed DuPont™ Tyvek® material that sports a map of the Manastash highlands, the jacket is fully packable and comes with a printed tyvek® and nylon pouch. Available from Boston-based independent Bodega.

To view more of Manastash’s collection visit their website.