We are pleased to share that our company, Ha Partners, and our representative Felix have been featured in “Naramon”.

The article offers a thoughtful look into our journey since relocating to Higashiyoshino Village, and highlights our product development efforts that utilize Yoshino timber.

Felix, who previously founded the UK furniture brand Maker & Son and has long been active in the design industry, moved to Higashiyoshino in spring 2024 with his partner Emily, where they established Ha Partners amid the rich natural surroundings.

One of the main highlights of the feature is our innovative floor tile made from Yoshino cedar end grain. Unlike typical flat-sawn timber, this design intentionally uses the end grain surface, revealing the natural growth rings. It offers not only a striking visual impression but also enhanced durability and resistance to wear, making it ideal for long-term use.

This product is carefully designed to minimize waste from raw logs while maximizing the fragrance and warmth that Yoshino cedar is known for. It holds great potential to bring new value to residential spaces both in Japan and abroad.

Felix’s words during the interview were especially memorable:
“Being surrounded by good people, we’re living a truly fulfilling life.”
It reminded us once again how deeply our work is rooted in the relationships we’ve built within the local community.

We would like to express our sincere gratitude to “Naramon” for the wonderful article and to Ayu (@ayu_no_shio_yaki_) for taking the time to visit us.

Moving forward, we will continue to live in harmony with the natural surroundings of this village, bring new perspectives to Yoshino timber, and contribute to the future of forestry one step at a time.

 

▼You can read the article here:

〈東吉野村〉村に移住した英国人がデザインする東吉野と木の未来／Felix Conranさん

 

Ha Partners

Takumi Matsuda