TOJIRO KNIFE GALLERY TOKYO

This project is the flagship store of Tojiro Co., Ltd., one of Japan’s leading knife manufacturers, in Asakusa Kappabashi. The design merges Japanese tradition with industrial aesthetics, using iron lattices and wood wool cement boards to echo Tojiro’s factory. Within a compact space, the gallery unites a retail floor and a maintenance room where artisans sharpen knives in view of customers, embodying Japan’s culture of “cherishing possessions.” Floating knife displays at eye level invite direct interaction, while the atmosphere conveys craftsmanship, longevity and sustainability.

I am the Founder & Creative Director of L/O and Katata Yoshihito Design, based in Niigata, Japan. My practice spans architecture, interior, product, and brand design, guided by the belief that “design is infrastructure.” I integrate Japanese craftsmanship and regional culture with contemporary aesthetics to create spaces, products, and experiences that connect local traditions with global perspectives. My work has been internationally recognized with awards including iF, Red Dot, Monocle Design Award, NY ADC Gold, and Design Anthology Design Award.

Awards & Recognitions

– iF Design Award, Winner
– Red Dot Design Award, Winner
– Monocle Design Award, Winner
– Design Anthology Design Award, Winner
– NY ADC Annual Awards, Gold (2 times)
– D&AD, Wood Pencil
– One Show, Merit
– Frame Awards, silver (3 times)
– Dezeen Awards, shortlist
– AZ Awards, Finalist / Honoree
– Architizer A+ Awards, Finalist
– Créateurs Design Awards, Finalist