K?, pronounced ‘K-3’, is a new luxury home and lifestyle brand founded by world renowned Japanese designer Kenzo Takada launched earlier this year. To celebrate the launch, Kenzo Takada also opened the first K? showroom at 242 Boulevard Saint-Germain, 75007 Paris.
K? is a colorful ode to life and with the support of his team, the French at heart Japanese designer has conceptualized an extensive, yet meticulously curated collection, including chairs, sofas, tables, rugs, bed linens, home textiles and accessories. To help bring his extraordinary vision to life, the designer has enlisted the know-how of leading Italian heritage brands including luxury bed linens brand SFERRA.
This vision has been inspired by Eastern and Western aesthetics with a modern twist. Therefore, as part of the brand’s visual identity, most pieces will bear a kintsugi mark, a tribute to the Japanese savoir-faire.
Within this collection, Kenzo Takada has fashioned three underlying themes: Sakura, Maiko and Shogun.
Inspired by nature, the Sakura theme creates an overall feeling of harmony and tranquillity with intricate floral motifs. The oneiric theme boasts hints of gold with a subtle pastel palette of pink and yellow.
With vibrant reds and pinks, illuminated with touches of gold, Maiko blends geometric lines and organic shapes. This theme echoes the delicate and refined spirit of the Maikos; these young Geishas in the making are renowned for their kimonos, and their delicate red and white makeup.
Shogun powerfully evokes solemnity, with dramatic black and ivory monochromes. This graphic and geometric theme brings a sharp flair to interiors, whilst encapsulating modernity and sophisticated elegance.
Featuring a myriad of vivid colors and bold patterns, Kenzo Takada’s designs are reflective of his joyful creative universe. For this new venture, Kenzo Takada will serve as the artistic director, and has enlisted a vast team of experts to work alongside him. Jonathan Bouchet Manheim has been Kenzo Takada’s managing partner since 2013 and has been at the forefront of K?’s development. Engelbert Honorat is working closely with the Japanese designer as his creative assistant. Wanda Jelmini has provided her extensive interior design knowledge and experience. K? development involves a remarkable number of talented individuals including craftsmen, manufacturers, and developers.
