We spoke to ITOKI's space designer, Miyu Yamamoto, about how she has overcome anxiety and setbacks to forge her own path between her dreams and reality.

"I actually wanted to be a more sleek designer (laughs)." She admires the image of a sophisticated, confident designer, but says that just because that's not exactly who she is doesn't mean she's stopping. "I believe that if you can't become something, you can't become it. That's why I want to work hard and honestly."

"For example, I'm the type of person who takes a long time to put my thoughts into words, so I make time to organize my thoughts on a daily basis. Because I'm a worrier, I make sure to think things through and prepare in advance." In this way, Yamamoto has steadily and steadily built her career in her own way.

Yamamoto says he was full of anxiety when he first joined the company. "I studied architecture at university, but at Itoki we design spaces. I was worried about whether I would be able to keep up with the level of knowledge of those around me."

However, that anxiety was quickly alleviated. "My superiors and seniors were always there to answer any questions I had or to help me with any problems I had, and they taught me everything I needed to know. They also told me, 'It's fine to do it your way, Yamamoto-san,' which allowed me to move forward while affirming myself."

"I just need to grow in my own way," he said, and the presence of people who watched over him warmly and guided him in the right direction became the foundation for his growth.

However, feeling that he could not keep following in the footsteps of his seniors and superiors forever, Yamamoto was put in charge of a large-scale project for the first time in his third year at the company. However, he says that this first experience was not easy.

"As the project progressed, more and more things I didn't understand arose, and I was feeling my way around the schedule. I even realized I had made a mistake just before construction began, causing inconvenience to those around me. It was the first time I felt like giving up."

However, he says that it was precisely because of this experience that he learned so much. "By being on the front lines as the main designer and working closely with project members, clients, and external stakeholders, I was able to gain solid practical experience. I'm a timid person, so I don't think I would have learned anything if I hadn't been out in the field like this." The opportunities for failure and challenge fueled his growth, and he took the next step.

"The most rewarding thing about my job right now is that I'm gaining experience." After the office is completed, he looks back on his work and says that the moment when he realizes his growth is irreplaceable. Although he is a little different from the image of a designer he aspires to be, he continues to move forward in his own way.

He says his current goal is to become a "designer with a strong sense of commitment."
"Every design needs a reason. That's why I continue to honestly ask 'why' and hope to develop my own unique style. It takes time, but I think that's what suits me." Yamamoto continues to work towards creating designs that are uniquely his, filled with his many unique styles.