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2026.07.31|

DESIGNERS

The effect of vintage furniture in fashion and interior design.

AD CORE DEVISE DESIGNER COLUMN Vol.182 When I go to exhibitions like the Milan Salone, style displays are the mainstream, and the displays are set in elaborately designed interiors, but I often feel distant and uncomfortable. It can't be helped since the displays are for promoting new products, but displays that are unified with the same product feel particularly cold. When there are many visitors, you can't see the whole picture of the space so I don't feel it as much, but this time, when I visited showrooms after the Salone season was over, I was able to look at the displayed products at my leisure, but the overly neat spaces felt cold and made me feel a little uncomfortable. I understand that it is different from the interiors actually used in homes on the American West Coast and lacks realism, but I felt that something was missing. At Paris Fashion Week for the Fall/Winter 2026-27 season, held in March 2026, the talk of the town was the miniature green Sena chair that was given to invited guests of Christian Dior's Fall/Winter 2026 women's collection designed by Jonathan Anderson. The Senna chair was designed in 1923 for the public gardens of Paris and was installed in the Luxembourg Gardens. It then rapidly spread to parks and gardens throughout Paris. These chairs are an iconic symbol of Paris, although the original designer and manufacturer remain unknown. In 1990, as the chairs began to show signs of aging, the French Senate held a tender and selected Fermob to manufacture 2,000 new green chairs for the Luxembourg Gardens, Tuileries Garden, and Palais Royal Gardens. Miniatures of these vintage pieces became a symbol of the collection, and were used by Jonathan Anderson, generating considerable buzz. Beyond Christian Dior, Pharrell Williams, creative director of Louis Vuitton Men's, created a mid-century modern, homey set called "Drophaus" for his show, and Ralph Lauren's collection featured vintage rugs on the runway and antique and vintage chairs. Last December, fashion designer Mathieu Blazy presented his collection against the backdrop of a vintage train arriving at a disused subway station in downtown Manhattan. Vintage designs evoke a sense of craftsmanship, and this has been used by many brands as a symbol of what fashion aims to achieve. Jonathan Anderson of Christian Dior, whom I mentioned earlier, also sent chairs from one of Paris's most famous parks to his guests, symbolizing leisure. Currently, the mainstream interior style is eclectic, incorporating vintage, contemporary, and personal items, creating rooms that feel like they have been carefully crafted over time, which is considered attractive. Before entering a newly created space, vintage items that have a long history exude an inherent richness, and incorporating them gives the interior a sense of stability, creates a contrast with new furniture, and produces a sophisticated impression. Decorating them with personal art and accessories gives them a natural feel. An overly uniform, trend-driven interior, or a space that leans too heavily towards one trend or has an overly set-like atmosphere can lose its authenticity. Trends can be a starting point, but applying them too much can quickly make a space feel outdated. Perhaps this was the coldness I felt in Milan. I truly realized this when I was working in our own showroom. In our Hiroo showroom, we previously displayed only our own products, believing that it was best to unify everything with our original designs. When we moved to Roppongi and created our showroom, we placed vintage furniture, lighting, and art that we had received from producer Yasuko, who had helped us with filming on the American West Coast, and added vintage accessories that we had collected as decorations. I felt that the previously rigid space became softer and more stable. Our products are also carefully crafted one by one by artisans in Japan. I think you can imagine this by combining them with vintage accessories that showcase the craftsmanship. Many of the items placed on tables and display shelves are from the Meiji to Showa periods. The furniture and lighting fixtures are also original pieces from the 1950s, so please enjoy not only our products but also the accessories. (Noboru Seto, Creative Director)

2026.07.31|

PRODUCT INFO.

MD-901 Dining chair

Creative director Noboru Seto shares the appeal of products that cannot be conveyed through photographs alone, from a designer's perspective, in this video. This time, he introduces the MD-901 chair from A-mode, a versatile chair that can be used in formal spaces as well. Product details can be found here ↓ https://www.adcore.co.jp/product/8235/  

2026.07.30|

DESIGN

Understanding the Furniture Manufacturing Process

Recently, I had the opportunity to visit our partner factories in Kyushu and Yamagata. Although the purpose of each visit differed, what I was reminded of was the power of the factory floor that supports "Made in Japan" manufacturing. Directly meeting with factory staff and exchanging opinions and communicating with them is one of the most important tasks for us. In Kyushu, we visited three factories that we entrust with the manufacturing of our furniture as part of our training. Many companies that sell products, including furniture, conduct factory tours as part of new employee training. However, I don't think there are many companies like ours where all employees, including operations staff, participate in factory training every year. Employees from departments such as sales, operations, and accounting, who don't usually have many opportunities to interact directly with the manufacturing site, also participate and see firsthand the processes by which our furniture is completed. By witnessing the processing steps that cannot be conveyed through drawings or catalogs alone, the craftsmanship of artisans, and the many processes involved in creating a single product, it is a valuable opportunity to deepen our understanding of manufacturing. At the sofa factory, we observed the manufacturing process of our best-selling NC-075 sofa. We were able to see each step of the process up close, from assembling the internal frame to upholstery and finishing. The NC-075 uses environmentally friendly softwood plywood, and the beautiful curves are achieved by paying attention to the structure of the parts that are not visible. In particular, in the process of assembling the backrest and seat, even slight differences in adjustment greatly affect the quality, so we realized that high technical skill and the experience of skilled craftsmen are required. We learned that the quality of the product is supported by carefully finishing even the smallest details. At the table factory, we learned about the difficulties of processing solid wood and the commitment to craftsmanship. Since wood is a natural material, each piece has a different appearance, and although it can be predicted to some extent, it is impossible to know how the grain and color will appear until it is actually cut. Therefore, we learned that it is important to proceed with processing while discerning the individuality of the material, and that the experience and skill of the craftsmen greatly affect the quality. Unlike industrial products that aim for a uniform finish, no two pieces of solid wood furniture are exactly alike. Each piece has a unique grain and texture in the world, and the factory tour made us realize once again that we can enjoy the charm that only natural materials can offer. This time, we visited the factory where prototypes of our new products are being made, and we held a meeting about the new products and oversaw the prototype production. Dimensions and fittings that looked fine on the drawings can sometimes look different when they are actually made into a product. We sit on the furniture, touch it, and check the details, exchanging opinions with the factory's craftsmen and making improvements together. This accumulation of work, where design and manufacturing work together as one, is an important process in our furniture making. Our furniture is supported by the skills and dedication of many partner factories throughout Japan. We will continue to value dialogue with the factory floor, maintain the quality that can only be achieved through domestic production, and continue to make furniture that our customers can use with peace of mind for a long time. In June, before the rainy season began, the weather in Hita City, Kyushu, was around 30 degrees Celsius, which was a little more comfortable than usual. However, the news recently reported the first ever record-breaking heatwave in Kyushu (maximum temperature of over 40℃...it could get even hotter inside the factory...), and we were surprised by the intense heat. I have renewed respect for everyone who works tirelessly every day to maintain quality in the factory, where the heat from the machinery can make the environment even more challenging. While I usually only see the finished products, learning about the process behind the scenes was a valuable training experience that deepened my understanding of and confidence in our own products. I will apply what I learned to my daily work and strive to convey the appeal of our products to our customers from the same perspective as those on the manufacturing floor. (Watanabe, Development Department)

2026.07.29|

SHOWROOM

Summer interiors made with natural materials that cool the senses.

AD CORE DEVISE SHOWROOM BLOG Vol.518 (Tokyo, Roppongi Showroom) In this season of relentless, intense heat, why not create a refreshing space that instantly soothes your mind the moment you step inside? Instead of relying solely on air conditioning, you can feel coolness through all five senses by carefully selecting materials that touch your skin and colors that catch your eye. This time, we'll introduce some tips for creating a comfortable and beautiful summer interior using natural fabrics and leather. The key to a comfortable summer at home lies in "selecting the right materials" for furniture that comes into direct contact with your skin. Chairs upholstered in natural fabrics such as linen and cotton are attractive for their excellent moisture absorption and breathability. Even in the sweaty summer months, they won't cling to your skin, maintaining a crisp and refreshing feel. Incorporating them into dining chairs or personal chairs also gives a light and refreshing impression. While leather is often associated with winter, high-quality genuine leather provides a pleasantly cool sensation when you enter an air-conditioned room. Its smooth and supple texture gently envelops your body on a hot summer day. To keep your favorite furniture in good condition and comfortable even in summer without getting damaged, a little care is needed. For fabric chairs, regularly vacuum the gaps to remove dust and maintain ventilation. If it's a cover type, dry cleaning or washing (if the fabric is washable) once before summer will restore the fluffiness of cotton or the crispness of linen. In the summer, when sebum and sweat can be a concern with leather sofas, moisturizing and protecting them with a special leather cream will make them less prone to staining. For daily care, simply gently wipe away sweat with a soft, dry cloth. For even greater comfort, we recommend draping a thin linen blanket or throw over it. Not only does it absorb sweat, but it also adds a cool visual accent and prevents the leather from getting too cold from the air conditioning. Furthermore, by adjusting the colors that enter your eyes, the perceived temperature of the room will drop significantly. Try combining summery accent colors with your base interior. By using white extensively on sofas and rugs to create a sense of cleanliness, it reflects light and gives the entire room a bright and open impression. Then, incorporate blue, which promotes cooling, in cushion covers, art, and glass vases. Deep navy will give a sophisticated and modern impression, while refreshing cyan or pale blue will create a light and resort-like feel. Adding cool branches such as Enkianthus perulatus or large houseplants as accents will add a touch of natural freshness and create a relaxing space like being in the shade of a tree. By adjusting the comfort of materials that touch your skin and the refreshing feeling of colors that enter your eyes, your usual living room will be transformed into a cool and special space. Please visit our showroom and experience the smooth texture and comfort unique to natural materials. We look forward to your visit. (Eri Saijo, Roppongi Showroom, Tokyo) ▷Click here to make a reservation

2026.07.24|

SHOWROOM

Enjoy a spacious layout with this slant sofa.

AD CORE DEVISE SHOWROOM COLUMN Vol.517 (Nagoya Sakae Showroom) The rainy season is over, and summer will be here before we know it. In recent years, the transitions between seasons have been getting shorter, and I wonder if it's just me who feels like we're being rushed to the next season from behind. About six months have passed since we announced our New MODEL, and we hope that everyone will be familiar with the new products. Customers who visit our showroom have been happy to say things like, "I came to see the sofa I saw on your website," and "There are new additions, so I'd like to discuss layouts." The Kidney Sofa NC-075 has been very well received since its announcement and remains a firm favorite, but recently, many customers have been showing interest in the Slant Sofa, which was added as an improved item for MASSAⅡ and spreads out diagonally. It allows for a novel layout style with an angle, which has greatly expanded the range of sofa sets we can propose. The MASSAⅡ (Massa Due) AD-229 sofa is a system sofa that has been announced as an evolved version of the previously available MASSA, with a significantly increased range of sizes. This sofa set features a simple design that makes the most of straight lines, but its wide back and arms, and voluminous seat give it a sense of weight and substance, making it perfect for luxurious settings. Despite its voluminous feel, the thick seat draws the eye downwards, creating an overall clean and uncluttered impression. And now, with the addition of the Slant Sofa to the MASSA II series, we've created a new addition. "Slant" means "incline" or "tilt" in English, and as the name suggests, it allows you to enjoy a layout that spreads out diagonally from the joining surfaces. The Slant Sofa is available in chaise longue, corner sofa, and ottoman versions. Adding a Slant Sofa to a typical I-shaped or L-shaped layout allows for a new arrangement that makes full use of space, something not possible with conventional sofa layouts. Furthermore, the angle creates a sense of distance between people sitting together, allowing for more relaxed comfort. This is highly recommended for customers who want to try a new layout different from before, or for those who want to lie down on the sofa. Simply adding this new style of sofa set can instantly refresh your familiar living space. Experience the innovative MASSAⅡ slant sofa at your nearest showroom. We're confident you'll be delighted with its comfortable seating. (Showroom representative: Mikako Mizuno) ▷Click here for AD-229 sofa▷Click here for showroom visit reservation form

2026.07.10|

SHOWROOM

Chairs that complement your lifestyle

AD CORE DEVISE SHOWROOM COLUMN Vol.516 (Osaka, Shinsaibashi Showroom) Dining chairs are pieces of furniture that support various scenes of daily life, not only during meal times, but also during family gatherings, reading, and work. Because we sit on them casually every day, it is important to choose them not only for their design, but also for their comfort and ease of use. The first thing to consider when choosing a chair is the height of the seat. In addition to the balance with the dining table, the height at which your feet can firmly touch the floor helps maintain a natural posture and leads to a comfortable sitting experience. Choosing a size that suits your body will make your daily meals and work more comfortable. Next, the shape of the backrest is also an important point. A backrest that gently fits the body will make it less strenuous to sit for long periods of time, allowing you to spend time comfortably not only during meals, but also during conversations and relaxation. The difference between chairs with and without armrests is also an important point to consider depending on how you use them. Chairs with armrests are recommended for those who want to relax comfortably, and they also have the advantage of providing support when sitting down or standing up. Armless chairs make it easy to get in and out of the table and give a clean, streamlined impression. At our Osaka showroom, many customers visit us saying they want to "try out the chairs in person before making a choice." Among the chairs that customers try out in the showroom, the MD-1301 is particularly popular. With its enveloping seating comfort and design that prevents fatigue even after sitting for long periods, it allows you to enjoy meals, reading, and relaxing comfortably. Another popular chair is the NC-020, with its simple and clean form that harmonizes with various spaces. Despite its generous size, its light and airy design doesn't make the space feel cramped. It also offers ease of getting in and out, making it a chair that combines comfortable seating with a stylish design. Each chair has its own unique appeal, and by actually sitting in them and comparing them, you can find the perfect chair to suit your lifestyle and how you spend your time. Choosing a chair that matches your lifestyle and space will lead to a more comfortable life. Chairs are something that accompany you in your daily life and enrich even the most ordinary moments. At our showroom, you can actually sit in and compare different chairs to experience the differences in comfort and design. Please come visit our Osaka showroom to find the perfect chair to suit your lifestyle. (Yui Amakawa, Osaka Shinsaibashi Showroom) ▷Click here to make a reservation

2026.06.30|

DESIGNERS

The Gardens of the Sky and the Plants of the Salone del Mobile in Milan

AD CORE DEVISE DESIGNER COLUMN Vol.181 The Milan Design Week report we held recently was viewed by over 1500 people, the highest number of participants for a web-based event to date. This time it was also held as a Zoom webinar, and we were encouraged by the feedback we received in the survey that the photos were beautiful and easy to understand. Some people pointed out that the image quality was poor, but this was because some viewers were using browsers other than Zoom software, so we hope you will enjoy the next event using Zoom software. This Milan report showed us 30 events with nearly 500 images, all of which were photos I took myself and then edited. While organizing the images, I compared the photos I took during Milan Design Week with snapshots I took walking around the city after it ended, and I noticed the abundance of greenery on the upper floors of apartment buildings in Milan. In this column, I will talk about the plants displayed during the Milan events and the plants in those apartment buildings. Every year I've walked around Milan for Design Week, navigating the 650 venues within the city with a map (now Google Maps on my smartphone) in hand, pushing myself to the limits like a full marathon, so I never had the luxury of looking up. This time, after Design Week had ended and I was walking through the quiet streets, I happened to look up at the raindrops falling on the road and realized they were coming from the plants on the balconies of the upper floors of apartment buildings. As I started paying attention to what was above me, I realized that there was surprisingly a lot of greenery in downtown Milan, which I had thought had little green space outside of parks. And as I started looking up as I walked around the city, I noticed that there were many beautiful balconies visible from below, and many penthouses with lots of greenery. Speaking of Milan, the "Vertical Forest," a tower apartment building designed by Stefano Boeri and completed in 2014, is famous, but when it was completed, there were doubts about whether plants could grow there given the difficulty of maintenance and Milan's winter environment. However, nearly 10 years later, this Vertical Forest has grown so lush that maintenance can barely keep up. In April in Milan, the streets are lined with "pioppo" (European poplar), a type of poplar tree, and their fluffy pollen is in the air. Usually, the Salone del Mobile is at the beginning of April, so I don't notice it much, but since it was closer to the end of April, the pollen was so thick that you could see it in the air, and even I, who don't usually suffer from severe hay fever, got a bad case of it in Milan. After Milan Design Week ended, and there was some rain, the pollen subsided, so I had more time to look at the buildings and was able to see the upper floors. In the old town, there are no street trees or gardens facing the road, so perhaps people place plants there to soothe their homes, but I thought that this might only be possible for people with the financial means to live in high-end apartment buildings, especially penthouses or those with large balconies. The wealthy people who live on the upper floors of the city center may be cultivating these plants to enjoy their lives, but it is certain that they provide a good view not only from the street but also for those in the buildings in front of their homes. I couldn't tell what kind of plants they were from so far up, but they brightened up the city, which has many historical and dark buildings. As I walked down the street, I recalled how sparse the plants were in the booths at this year's Milan Salone Fiera and in the showrooms around the city. Plants are an important decorative element in interiors and change with the times, but there were no plants in the showrooms of famous furniture brands that had opened in the city. While plants take up space and make the space feel smaller, the space felt sterile. On the other hand, I felt that there were fewer plants at the Fiera as well. However, high-end brands that seemed to have more resources had plants, using them as part of their interiors. The popularity of tropical plants such as Monstera continues, and there were many plants that take up space as their leaves quickly grow out of the pot, such as ferns and Areca palms. On the other hand, rubber trees and Benjamin figs seem to be remnants of the interior design boom of the 1970s to 90s. The current trend in interior design is eclectic style, where vintage, contemporary, and personal items are layered together, and uniform interiors that are simply assembled based on trends are becoming less popular. Is the same true for houseplants? Rather than gathering plants of uniform species, the current trend in plant arrangements seems to be to skillfully surround a central plant with other species. This moderately relaxed arrangement likely contributes to the relaxing atmosphere. The plants in our Roppongi showroom have also grown considerably. The Monstera that we had in our Hiroo office has grown so large that it now exceeds our height, and its shiny leaves are now on display in the showroom. The Ficus has also been repotted and has grown a bit larger. The Phalaenopsis orchids placed at the base of the showroom, which we received as a gift when we opened, have also started to bloom after being repotted. Please come and see them in the showroom, along with the plants in the courtyard. (Creative Director, Noboru Seto)

2026.06.29|

023-MODEL

Creative director Noboru Seto shares the appeal of products that cannot be conveyed through photographs alone, from a designer's perspective, in this video. This time, he introduces the NC-023 from NEO CLASSICO, featuring a horseshoe-shaped back accented with elegant covered buttons.  

2026.06.26|

DESIGN

The value of using something for a long time

Our online seminar, "Milan Salone Report," held recently, received registrations from over 1500 customers over two days. Thank you for your participation. We would like to take this opportunity to express our gratitude for watching in real time. I also visited Milan, Italy, to inspect the Milan Salone. In addition to experiencing the latest furniture and interior design, I made many discoveries by actually walking around the city of Milan, not just visiting the exhibition halls. Walking around Milan, I noticed that many historical buildings remain, creating a landscape completely different from Tokyo, where I usually walk. Buildings that were probably built hundreds of years ago are still used as a matter of course today, blending into people's lives as residences, cafes, shops, and offices. The new buildings that occasionally appear among them seem rather fresh. The reason why many old buildings remain in Europe is said to be because they are sturdy buildings made of stone, brick, and concrete, and because there are not as many earthquakes as in Japan. There are also systems and laws in place to protect historical buildings. However, what I felt when I actually walked around there was the existence of cultural values ​​that cannot be explained by these reasons alone. What particularly impressed me were the trams running through the city. While there were some newer vehicles, older trams that had been in service for many years (with rusty exteriors that clearly showed their long history) were still actively operating. Seeing them carefully maintained and accepted as part of the city's landscape, I felt that the idea of ​​"continuing to make use of the old"—not just limited by laws and regulations—was deeply rooted in people's lives. Japanese cityscapes are a little different. Due to a history of development centered on wooden architecture, responses to natural disasters such as earthquakes and typhoons, and rapid urban development after the war, a culture of scrap and build, based on the premise of rebuilding, has been formed. If you walk around Tokyo, new skyscrapers and redevelopment projects are progressing one after another, and the city is constantly being renewed. Of course, this is not a matter of which is superior. In recent years in Japan, renovation and the utilization of existing buildings have spread, and the idea of ​​"stock utilization" is steadily taking hold. On the other hand, in Europe, the culture of continuing to use old things while giving them new value remains strong. I felt that these values ​​of the people themselves are reflected in the differences in cityscapes and lifestyles. Furthermore, this approach is attracting attention from the perspective of reducing environmental impact. Renovating while utilizing the existing structure of a building leads to reduced consumption of resources and energy compared to new construction. The idea that long-term use itself is valuable may become increasingly important in the future. Our furniture making also aligns with this philosophy. At our company, we are committed not only to the visual design but also to the structure and internal specifications that allow for long-term use. We also offer maintenance and reupholstering services for many of our products, and we receive many repair requests from customers who have been using our products for many years. Just recently, we performed maintenance and repairs on a product that was delivered more than 20 years ago. It is very rewarding to see it being used again after all these years. Walking around Milan, I was reminded of the importance of not just following trends, but of creating products that are loved for a long time and whose value deepens with continued use. We will continue to create furniture that our customers can use with peace of mind for many years to come. (Development Department, Watanabe)

2026.06.25|

SHOWROOM

Arrangement techniques for kidney sofas to make your space look beautiful.

AD CORE DEVISE SHOWROOM BLOG Vol.515 (Tokyo, Roppongi Showroom) The kidney sofa, with its uniquely beautiful curves, is a globally popular style, and at our showroom, more than half of the visitors come to see the kidney sofa (075-MODEL). Its organic form creates a sophisticated atmosphere in any room, as if it were a work of art. However, unlike typical square sofas, many people are unsure how to arrange it. This time, we will introduce some layout points to bring out the maximum appeal of the kidney sofa. The greatest appeal of the kidney sofa lies in its beautiful form, which looks great from every angle. Instead of placing it flush against a wall, we recommend boldly placing it in the center of the room (island arrangement). An island arrangement highlights the smooth curves of the back and creates a luxurious sense of open space. In particular, it can also serve as a partition to gently separate the living and dining areas. Furthermore, modern Japanese homes are mostly composed of straight lines (squares) in their walls, doors, and TV stands. The curves of the kidney sofa soften the tension in the space and create a pleasant accent. For the coffee table, choosing a round, oval, or irregularly shaped table like the MD-3212 living table that follows the curve of the sofa works well, and placing it on a square rug creates a beautiful contrast between straight and curved lines. Alternatively, pairing it with a round rug further emphasizes a softer impression. A curved sofa like the kidney sofa does not need to be placed parallel to the wall like square furniture. By placing it at a slight angle towards the corner of the room, you can create a sense of openness and flow of movement. Because the corners are rounded, even when placed at an angle, it does not easily obstruct the passageway (flow of movement), and in fact, it allows the eye to flow further into the room, creating the effect of making the space appear larger. You can create a light and airy living room that feels breezy as summer approaches. The kidney sofa, which is not confined to a square frame, is also a piece of furniture that offers a high degree of layout flexibility. Simply breaking away from the preconceived notion that furniture should only be placed against the wall can dramatically change how you use your living room. Why not enjoy the "visual comfort" and "spaciousness" that the beautiful curves of the kidney sofa bring? Please come and see it in person at our showroom. We look forward to your visit. (Eri Saijo, Roppongi Showroom, Tokyo) ▷Click here for the 075-MODEL sofa▷Click here to make a reservation

2026.06.23|

SHOWROOM

Factory training that reaffirmed the high quality

AD CORE DEVISE SHOWROOM BLOG Vol.514 (Nagoya Sakae Showroom) The other day, all employees visited Kyushu for factory training. This time, we visited three factories in Hita City, Oita Prefecture, which is famous as a cedar producing area. For us, who usually have few opportunities to see the manufacturing process and internal structure, this annual factory training is an extremely valuable learning opportunity to reaffirm our understanding of furniture making. When we visited the factories, the production of the very popular NC-075 sofa was underway at each stage. All of the frames that form the skeleton are made of domestically produced cedar and cypress plywood, and strong domestically recycled paper is used for the back panel. The cushioning material for the back and seat is made of recycled foam made from leftover urethane cushion scraps and recycled felt, and is made of environmentally friendly materials. We were able to see how it is created through many processes and learn the importance of the role of each part of the internal structure that makes up the shape. In addition, the work spaces divided for each process in each factory were well organized and had good traffic flow. A well-maintained environment prevents injuries and accidents, and significantly improves work efficiency. Since our founding, as part of our commitment to environmental issues, we have been working on manufacturing that considers the natural environment, based on domestic made-to-order production and using domestically produced and recycled materials. We also saw various initiatives being carried out in Hita City, which we visited. Activities were being conducted to raise awareness of the quality of domestically produced furniture among all generations, and a program where elementary school students are given desks with Hita cedar tabletops when they enter school, use them as their own for six years, and then take the tabletop home as a memento upon graduation. These are attempts to foster an appreciation for nature's blessings and love for the region while engaging with local industries. Please come and experience Made in Japan furniture, created using high-quality domestically produced materials, the latest machinery, and the careful handiwork of skilled craftsmen, at our showroom. We are sure you will be satisfied not only with the design but also with the comfort. (Showroom staff: Mizuno Mikako) ▷Click here for the reservation form▷Click here for 075-MODEL

2026.06.18|

SHOWROOM

Making your own furniture

AD CORE DEVISE SHOWROOM COLUMN Vol.513 (Osaka, Shinsaibashi Showroom) Because furniture is something we use every day, we want to choose something that suits our lifestyle and preferences, not just the design and comfort. This time, we will introduce the appeal of customization that is possible because AD CORE DEVISE products are made to order. Even with chairs and sofas of the same design, the impression of the space changes greatly just by changing the upholstery or the color of the wood. You can enjoy creating your ideal room depending on the combination, whether it is a natural and gentle atmosphere or a calm and chic space. Our products are made to order, so you can choose from a wide variety of paint colors and upholstery for each brand. We offer a wide range of paint colors for the wood, from those that make the most of the natural wood grain to dark colors that tighten up the space, so you can choose according to your interior and preferences. We also have a variety of materials for upholstery, such as fabric, faux leather and genuine leather, so you can enjoy different looks even with the same product depending on the combination of materials and colors. We can also make suggestions to meet your requests, such as "I want a bright space," "I want a room that feels warm with wood," or "I want to incorporate an accent color." The impression changes dramatically depending on the specifications you choose, so the joy of creating your own unique piece is one of the charms of AD Core Design. For some sofas and chairs, you can choose different upholstery fabrics. By combining different fabrics for the inside and outside, you can create an accent in your space or make your piece even more personalized. In addition to color and material selection, some products also offer optional customization. Adding a handle to a chair makes it easier to move, adds an accent to the back style, and helps prevent the upholstery from getting dirty. Furthermore, you can choose genuine leather piping. Changing the piping to genuine leather tightens the overall design, giving it a more refined and luxurious feel. We also offer a wide variety of highly functional fabrics that are safe for households with small children or pets. By choosing according to your lifestyle and preferences, you can create a piece that you will cherish even more. Since furniture is something you'll use for a long time, why not choose furniture that reflects your personality? With a wide range of paint colors and upholstery options available through made-to-order production, you can choose your favorite combination and create a piece that is truly yours. At our showroom, you can view actual products and material samples, and we also offer consultations to help you create a coordinated look that suits your needs. Please enjoy comparing materials and colors to create a one-of-a-kind piece of furniture. (Yui Amakawa, Osaka Shinsaibashi Showroom) ▷Click here to make a reservation

2026.05.27|

DESIGNERS

The true face of Milan

AD CORE DEVISE DESIGNER COLUMN Vol.180 I went to Milan Design Week again this April. I've been going to Milan Salone since I was 24, so that makes it 40 years now. Initially, it was the International Furniture Fair held at Fiera Milano City, a trade fair venue near the city center, conveniently located just 7 stops from the Duomo. It was held in September at that venue, and I remember the last year I went it was as hot as midsummer, with no air conditioning, and the halogen lights illuminating the booths made the inside of the building feel like a sauna. (Back then, it was common for shops in Milan not to have air conditioning.) Since 2005, it has been held at the current Fiera Milano Rho, on the outskirts of Milan, which relieved us from the heat, but it's now 17 subway stops and about 30 minutes further from the Duomo, and the venue is huge, making it difficult to walk around. Since then, various events have been held in the Tortona area, which is a former factory site, and in the city center of Milan, attracting people from all over the world. The Milan Furniture Fair (Salone del Mobile) is known as one of the two major furniture fairs, along with the Cologne International Furniture Fair held in Cologne, Germany. The kitchen exhibition held concurrently is now held biennially in Italy and Germany, and in the years when the kitchen exhibition is held at the Milan Furniture Fair, many interior designers attend. In recent years, this joint kitchen exhibition with Germany has begun to break down, and German kitchen brands have started to focus on showroom exhibitions in Milan and no longer exhibit at the Fiera. As a result, the space inside the venue has been left unused year after year, and this year the aisles were widened and curtains were hung to hide the extra space. The same was true for the lighting exhibition last year. The same is true for furniture brands; many major brands that exhibited at the Fiera have opened showrooms in the city and established permanent exhibitions, and the number of major manufacturers that used to visit 10 years ago has been halved. This is because they have judged that it is more cost-effective to open showrooms in the city than to pay the soaring exhibition fees and set up huge booths at the trade fair venue. In the past, buyers from all over the world gathered at the exhibition, where they tried to generate a year's worth of sales in just one week. Both buyers and sellers were serious about the event, and the intense sales-oriented atmosphere was palpable during the first three days of buyer days (when the general public was not allowed). Now, major brands have agents in their respective global regions, and franchise agencies in major cities, making new sourcing impossible. With communication and payment easily handled online, the exhibition's presentation style has shifted from being buyer-centric to a platform for showcasing an image to the user. This focus on image presentation has attracted crowds, and city events have taken advantage of this, turning the period into a design festival. There are now many brand advertising events, including installations beyond furniture brands, which have attracted large crowds and led to soaring hotel prices. The rising travel costs during Salone in recent years have been a problem, but this year, with the yen depreciating and the euro rising by about 20%, the hotel I've been staying at for the past few years, which cost around 60,000 yen per night two years ago, rose to 93,000 yen last year, and is now over 120,000 yen. The current price is exorbitant compared to 15 years ago when our company was running Milan Salone tours and the price was around 20,000 yen. Therefore, this year we changed the itinerary from the usual three-day stay starting on Wednesday to Friday through Sunday, which are general public days, to make hotel costs a little cheaper. (The price for Sunday, the last day, is halved.) I also decided to extend my stay by three days to see what the city is like after the Salone period. It was my first time visiting Milan on the last day, Sunday, and my first time seeing Milan after the Salone period had ended in the 40 years I've been coming here. On the last day, Sunday, the lines for the fashion brand events were so long that I gave up on getting in, but the showrooms of famous furniture brands, which are also well-known in Japan, were deserted. It seems that ordinary citizens aren't interested in furniture showrooms. At the same hotel, where the price for accommodation was reduced to 1/5 from Monday, the breakfast area suddenly became crowded. During the Salone period, the seats were never full, but it was bustling with regular business people. Admittedly, I can't afford to spend more than 100,000 yen on hotel accommodations for business trips, and the hotel I stayed at was a typical Japanese business hotel, usually used by business travelers. I was surprised when I walked around the city after Salone ended; the bustling streets were deserted, and there were no entry restrictions at the furniture and kitchen brand showrooms. I just walked in through the empty entrances, and inside there were only a few staff members working at their usual leisurely pace. I could look around, sit down, and take pictures to my heart's content. The popular kitchen brand in Brera also had long lines during Salone, and for the past few years I'd given up on even seeing it, or if I could get in it, it was so crowded I couldn't even take pictures. But where had all that hustle and bustle gone? I had only ever known Milan during Design Week, but this was the first time I'd seen it so quietly. From next year, I think I'll visit places other than showrooms during Salone, and then visit the showrooms after it's over. New products are still on display, and you can leisurely look at the interiors and products. While it's nice to see festival-like installations, when I consider whether they'll be useful for my work, I think I could spend my time more meaningfully than seeing the fun, expo-style exhibits that are only enjoyable for a limited time. If fewer people go during the event, hotel prices might go down a bit too... Anyway, this year's Milan Design Week report will have many photos taken in relaxed spaces, so I think it will be a very worthwhile report. Stay tuned! (Noboru Seto, Creative Director)

2026.05.27|

DESIGN

My impressions of design in Paris

At the end of April, I visited Milan, Italy, for an interior design inspection. At Salone del Mobile, an international interior design event held annually, I was able to fully experience numerous trends and the stories of each brand. Before returning to Japan, I also visited Paris, France. During this stay, I visited the Musée d'Orsay, the Louvre Museum, the Bourse de Commerce - Pinault Collection, and the Villa La Roche-Jeanneret, receiving much inspiration, mainly from architecture, art, and interiors. Of course, I also visited iconic Parisian landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower and the Arc de Triomphe. Due to the limited time, the schedule was quite packed (I walked nearly 30,000 steps a day, given the scale of the museums...), but it was an extremely enriching experience. Paris in late April was blessed with fine weather; it didn't rain, and the weather was warm enough to break a slight sweat while walking around. The atmosphere, where modern design and new culture blend naturally into the historical cityscape, is a charm that can only be experienced in person. What struck me most during this visit was that design cannot exist in isolation. Not only the artworks displayed in the museum, but also the architecture, lighting, materials, the flow of people, and even the empty spaces—everything worked together to create the overall space. Every place wasn't designed simply to be seen; it was designed with the feelings and experiences of the visitors in mind. One particularly impressive example was the La Roche-Jeanneret House. This residence and gallery, nestled in a quiet residential area, incorporates many of the ideas of modern architecture advocated by Le Corbusier. Not only the architecture, but also the way light enters, the way lines of sight unfold, and the distance between furniture—everything was meticulously designed, making the space itself a complete work of art. It wasn't just beautiful; the focus on "how people spend their time" showed a strong consideration for the design. I feel this is always an important perspective in furniture making as well. Furniture doesn't exist in isolation; it truly shines in its relationship with space and people. Where will it be used, how will it be used, and what kind of time will be spent there? Only by considering all of these factors can we even begin to bring a product to market. I realized that design isn't simply about constructing shapes and structures; it requires this kind of thoughtful consideration. Another striking aspect of walking around Paris was the coexistence of old and new. Buildings and furniture that have been used for hundreds of years still blend naturally into the city, and modern designs exist within them without any sense of incongruity. I believe that this is because they are not simply chasing trends, but are designed with the premise of lasting a long time, which is why they continue to retain their value over time. The historic architecture of the Louvre Museum and its iconic glass pyramid blend naturally with the modern glass structure within the imposing historical architecture, embodying the idea of ​​"preserving the old while updating it to suit the modern age." Renovation plans are underway, looking ahead to around 2031, showing that even historical buildings continue to evolve without stopping. This is also a concept that applies to furniture making, and it made me realize once again that the more something is loved for a long time, the more important it is to update it to suit the times. This visit gave me an opportunity to reconsider what essential design is, by experiencing many spaces and works of art. It is not just about visual beauty, but also about designing with people's senses and experiences in mind. I feel that this accumulation of effort leads to the creation of things that are loved for a long time. Going forward, I hope to continue to experience various things both domestically and internationally, incorporating new perspectives to create even more appealing furniture. (Development Department, Bunta Watanabe)

2026.05.27|

043-MODEL

Creative director Noboru Seto shares the appeal of products that cannot be conveyed through photographs alone, from a designer's perspective, in this video. This time, he introduces the NC-043C, a high-quality desk chair from NEO CLASSICO, designed with the French-style wingback chair popular in the 19th century as its motif.