Oki Sato is the head designer for Japanese design firm Nendo. Born in Toronto, Oki graduated with a master’s in architecture from Waseda University in Tokyo in 2002. That same year, Oki and some of his classmates formed Nendo and established the company’s Tokyo office. A second office in Milan was established in 2005, and in 2012 a third office opened in Singapore.
The goal of Nendo is to reconstitute the everyday by transforming it into something that is easy to understand. Nendo believes there are many small moments of surprise hidden in everyday life, and they want those who encounter their designs to intuitively feel those moments of surprise. The company has produced designs for projects across Asia, Europe and North America.
Oki Sato introduces his first architectural project in Japan. He discusses the design constraints and creative ways to produce a cohesive idea under a tight budget.
Oki Sato talks about why designing the small details first can foster inspiring moments.
Oki Sato presents his process and the 10 key words he uses to design his projects.
Richelle Sibolboro 