Keiji Takeuchi
ABOUT THE DESIGNER
Takeuchi’s global outlook enables him to develop products that transcend language and culture to address fundamental concerns. The result is a collection of works whose intrinsic functionality make intuitive sense because they deny all superfluous elements. Milan-based designer Keiji Takeuchi is a native of Fukuoka, Japan. Takeuchi attended university in New Zealand, where he graduated with a bachelor’s degree in product design. In 1999, he relocated to Paris to pursue studies at ENSCI - Les Ateliers. Between 2005 and 2018, he worked as a designer for Naoto Fukasawa Design; in 2012, he moved to Milan to open their European office. Today, Takeuchi oversees his own design studio, collaborating with leading international design brands such as Boffi, Cappellini and De Padova.
AWARDS
Among Takeuchi’s recognitions is the EDIDA Japan 2016 Young Japanese Talent prize and the EDIDA Japan 2018 Best Bathroom prize.
Keiji Takeuchi | Phenomena Black
Blocks of solid anodized aluminum are CNC-milled at different frequencies to create subtly angled panels that reflect light and color in endless variations depending on the position of the viewer and time of day. The monochromatic color schemes generate a luminous sheen that emphasizes the aesthetic properties of this oft-used industrial design material. “I explore the potential of aluminum beyond its functional use. My research led me to traditional Japanese folding screens – byōbu – that served as both a furnishing and decorative element. Gold-leaf covered screens would reflect ambient light to enliven interior spaces. I’m interested in creating the same effect but doing it in a more conceptual way, incorporating precise CNC machining that transforms an everyday material of industrial design into an engaging surface.” KEIJI TAKEUCHI
Keiji Takeuchi | Phenomena Coloured
Blocks of solid anodized aluminum are CNC-milled at different frequencies to create subtly angled panels that reflect light and color in endless variations depending on the position of the viewer and time of day. The monochromatic color schemes generate a luminous sheen that emphasizes the aesthetic properties of this oft-used industrial design material. “I explore the potential of aluminum beyond its functional use. My research led me to traditional Japanese folding screens – byōbu – that served as both a furnishing and decorative element. Gold-leaf covered screens would reflect ambient light to enliven interior spaces. I’m interested in creating the same effect but doing it in a more conceptual way, incorporating precise CNC machining that transforms an everyday material of industrial design into an engaging surface.” KEIJI TAKEUCHI