The rise in remote work and workations have led to massive changes in the relationship between our jobs and lives at home. Some have been inspired to reexamine their lifestyles and move from the city to the countryside. Designer Kobayashi Shinya connects craftsmanship and everyday life by reinvigorating local industry. Art director Hirose Kiyoharu works on social design projects that conserve local natural environments. They explore future possibilities for connecting work and home life.

Exhaustion and stress are taking their toll as the coronavirus pandemic continues. Supportive, relaxing designs are beginning to attract notice. Meet a pet-style robot designed to have no practical purpose, discover humorous gifts, and charming signs. Product designer Nezu Kota explores the world of compassionate design.

The Mingei movement began in 1926 but still has an enormous impact on Japanese product design today. As we all re-evaluate our lifestyles in the midst of a pandemic, explore how Mingei helped shape the design of ordinary items around Japan. Guest Takaki Takao runs a craftwork shop in Fukuoka and explores what lies ahead for our everyday lives.