Design Magazine AXIS Vol.226 on Sale November 1 !

Feature
CHILDREN'S TIME 2023

"Designs for children" are etched deeply in our memories, such as those in picture books we read until they were totally worn out, playground equipment in parks we used until sunset, and classrooms we attended. At the same time, design itself has learned a great deal from children and has been stimulated considerably by them. The fact many innovations have actually been born of "ideas from the perspectives of children" may verify that. How have such relationships between design and children that may be termed "mutual love" changed today in 2023? In this feature, we explore the possibilities of design that may influence things, events, and places for children.

From research to development Jakuets' design re-inventing playgrounds

"Play" helps children to develop physical abilities and allows for creativity and receptivity. How can design contribute to this? How should playgrounds adapt to current social issues such as declines in birth rates and outdoor play? Jakuets' initiative to develop playground equipment in tandem with designers and researchers alike, may provide a valuable clue.

On the frontlines of early childhood education

The ever-increasing importance of early childhood education remains paramount even in this era of declining birthrate. Through three remarkable nursery schools in Japan, we will explore what recent attempts nursery schools and kindergartens are implementing to meet the needs for a place of both childcare and the educational opportunities that only schools can provide.

An interview with Kenryu Nakamura, Senior Research Fellow at RCAST, The University of Tokyo
"Planning Child education is a type of design"

Kenryu Nakamura, who researches future education, is involved in diverse support projects for children experiencing difficulty living in contemporary society. We asked about his activities and his thoughts on child education through a program called "LEARN" (Learn Enthusiastically, Actively, Realistically, and Naturally) involving learning and experiencing that he started in 2021.

"Allies" for Digital Native Children

What effect will the development of digital technology have on the future of children? Although negative factors seem to garner coverage, there has been progressive development of devices and applications which contribute towards finding solutions for issues that children face,as well as  encouraging their social development. This article introduces designs from abroad which display a superb concept and UI/UX.

INSIGHT
The UD Digital Kyokasho font opens up  possibilities in children's learning

It took eight years for font designer Yumi Takata to complete the UD Digital Kyokasho font. Seeing the textbook with that font, a kid with dyslexia said, "I can read this! I'm not a fool after all!" As soon as Takata tweeted this episode, it immediately went viral and received many earnest comments. Even those in charge of developing products did not realize the UD font was in such demand.

INSIGHT
JAL, Karimoku Furniture, and designers & architects demonstrate the "true value" of upcycling

A collaboration between JAL, Japan's leading airline, and Karimoku Furniture, a long-established wooden furniture manufacturer, might evoke images of new furniture pieces for airports. However, what was unveiled at the Interior Lifestyle 2023 international trade fair was upcycled furniture made with retired airplane parts. What was the message of Upcycling Airplanes JAL | Karimoku, carried out via the invitation of seven international designers and architects? We interviewed the project members of both companies and the architect Keiji Ashizawa, who was the director of the project.

INSIGHT
When sheep become materials Oltre Terra and Cambio by Formafantasma

The quest for materials is not only an important topic but also a starting point in design. For instance, we used to find new materials created from regenerated cellulose at every art school's degree show before covid and sustainable materials are a big topic of conversation. The design studio Formafantasma, which is known for its research into returning to the origins of objects, held an exhibition that examines the wool industry in Oslo.