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Kodo, soul of motion

#72 The Mazda Design Space in Milan showcases a collection of objects created by its design team and inspired by the automaker’s philosophy. #salone2015

The Mazda Motor Corporation has developed a strong relationship with Design Week and with Milan. Indeed, the city was the backdrop chosen for the official global presentation of the Mazda Kodo design theme in 2010 and 2013 but this year the Japanese corporation’s presence is very special.

Kodo Mazda, bicicletta — Kodo Mazda, bycicle

Kevin Rice, Mazda’s European Design Director, describes the car manufacturer’s design philosophy as a “spirit” that finds its raison d’être in motion and which the Hiroshima Group has called “Kodo”. “We want to channel emotions, not forms,” explains Rice, “we don’t create, we imagine. We want to suggest design, not impose it. The Japanese aesthetic is not only a style but a spirit, a subtle approach to the world.”

This vision is manifest in the objects displayed in the space set up by the Japanese corporation at Via San Carpoforo 9 in the Brera district.

“The outcome of all this work, done in Milan with local professionals,” continues Rice “has really surprised me and the design team. We had a clear aim, to channel expression and dynamic elegance in objects as well as cars but we didn’t know how far our design theme could take us.” Kodo Design has proved extremely flexible and given special character to all the pieces created, which include a sofa, a table and even a bicycle.

To explore the drive of the unlimited motion expressed in these design products, Mazda went back to their roots and cemented the bond with the Japanese aesthetic of elegance.

This simplicity, essence and sense of proportion speak directly to the senses and are what builds a timeless aesthetic. “Our work goes on and the extraordinary exchange of skills with the Italian people and firms that have supported and accompanied us,” continues Rice “enabled us to work both experimentally and skilfully with various materials while maintaining a strong focus on detail, which is a must in the Japanese culture and aesthetic.”

The items on display will be produced and marketed in a limited series but the motor corporation is happy to form partnerships with specialist companies to create product lines.