『新たな方法と美意識を持ち、
モノと場の持続的な在り方を考え続ける』
Developing sustainable bonds between objects and space through creativity, innovation, and a refined aesthetic sense.
Our company name is derived from the English word “method” (meaning a technique, approach, process, procedure, order, or discipline).
At method, we are deeply engaged with contemporary creations across diverse fields, including design, crafts, art, fashion, beauty, and even food and beverage. We collaborate closely with product creators, involving ourselves in every aspect of their work, with a particular focus on store creation both in Japan and around the world.
Spatial development and direction
We specialize in both store openings and renewals, offering comprehensive support that spans conceptual planning, retail buying, display design, and operational consultation. Collaborating closely with interior and graphic designers, we ensure a seamless process. Our expertise extends beyond commercial facilities to include the planning of commercial areas within public facilities and, more recently, collaborating with architects on the development of small-scale commercial complexes, known as “Micro Complexes.” This demonstrates our ability to create innovative spaces that go beyond traditional store design.
Product development
In collaboration with manufacturing clients, we leverage our retail buying expertise to offer product development consultation through our network of graphic and industrial designers. Our services cater to diverse needs, from planning and brand launches to package design renewals as well as items sold at Japanese shrines and temples. Additionally, we assist clients with marketing strategies, including product introductions at trade shows.
Event planning
We organize and collaborate on a range of events, including in-store programs, pop up shops, exhibitions, and in-house product campaigns for manufacturers. Whether the event is large or small, in urban or rural settings, we handle all aspects of making these events a reality through exceptional consultation and operational support.
Product placement
We handle everything from in-store product placement and storefront or window designs to trade show booths and large-scale presentations. Additionally, we design and implement the layout plans for featured and permanent exhibitions at museums and other facilities, both domestically and internationally. We work to optimize the aesthetics and presentation of artwork, goods, and services.
Goods and equipment curation
Whether it is in-store supplies, curated products for media publications, operating supplies and equipment (OS&E) and furniture, fixtures, and equipment (FF&E) for hotels, or novelty goods for international conferences, we propose and procure items that suit the client’s needs. Leveraging our retail buying expertise, we go beyond mere order placements to support clients from the initial selection through to procurement, ensuring a comprehensive service.
Our projects begin with a thorough review and understanding of the inquiries we receive daily. We then integrate our research through an objective analysis, formulating new hypotheses to present to the client. Through ongoing discussion, we refine and develop our proposals.
Based on the direction established through these dialogues, we work closely with the client during the implementation phase. Collaborating with designers and experts from various fields as needed, we apply all our accumulated experiences and methods in spatial development and direction, as well as store management. We infuse our work with new approaches and aesthetics, aiming to bring each project to life in a cost-effective and sustainable manner. Please feel free to contact us to learn more.
http://wearemethod.com/contact/
Additionally, at our office in Shibuya, Tokyo, we have several gallery spaces where we regularly host our own planned exhibitions. We also rent out these spaces to companies and creators looking for a venue to showcase their work or product.
We believe in the value of the items we work with, supporting and encouraging their creators, walking alongside them through challenges, and progressing together. We take pride in our involvement within today’s creative community. Whether working with modern or traditional elements, we are dedicated to co-creating sustainable presentations that accentuate the beauty of tangible materials.
Yu Yamada (Buyer)
Born in Tokyo, Yamada founded method inc. in 2007 after his tenure as a buyer of the Japanese home interior brand IDÉE SHOP in Minami Aoyama. He now serves as the CEO of method inc., a visiting professor at Musashino Art University’s Department of Crafts and Industrial Design, Chief judge of the Tokyo Business Design Award, and a judge for the Tokyo Midtown Award. Yamada continues to play an active role in various store development projects both domestically and internationally, taking on diverse responsibilities such as delivering talks at industry hubs and educational institutions.
Yamada was featured in the magazine Discover Japan: Kurashi no Senmonten (EI Publishing, 2013). In 2014, he published a book “The Method of Shop Success” (Seibundo Shinkosha Publishing).
Major projects he has been involved in to date include: “Souvenir From Tokyo” (museum gift shop at the National Art Center, Tokyo), “21_21 SHOP” (21_21 DESIGN SIGHT), “GOOD DESIGN STORE TOKYO by NOHARA”, “Made in Pierre Hermé” (Tokyo concept store by chocolatier Pierre Hermé), Tsubame-Sanjo Factory Festival, and “NOT A HOTEL” (high-end rental properties).