Selected Pairs for MONO MAKERS PROGRAM 2025

5 June 2025 | published by MONO MAKERS MEET

We are excited to announce the selected collaborations for the MONO MAKERS PROGRAM 2025, a cross-cultural initiative connecting Japanese manufacturers with Dutch designers to create new value through craft, dialogue, and design.

After a careful and thoughtful selection process, the jury has chosen the following two collaborations for their exceptional potential and resonance with the goals of MONO JAPAN and NN Life Insurance Company in Japan.

Grand Prize: KOJIMA ORIMONO × STUDIO SAMIRA BOON

This collaboration was selected for its high feasibility and strong potential to result in a high-quality outcome that responds to contemporary market needs. The proposal demonstrated a clear and realistic vision, supported by Studio Samira Boon’s extensive experience and KOJIMA ORIMONO’s solid production foundation. The jury was especially excited by the inspiring and forward-looking nature of the proposal, which holds great promise for both local impact and global relevance.

Left: Erika Kojima (Kokima Orimono) / Right: Samira Boon (Studio Samira Boon), photograph by Josefina Eijkenaar

Jury’s Special Prize: Studio Lena Winterink × SHOBIEN KYOTO

This pairing was recognized for its unique and meaningful approach to revitalizing a traditional Japanese craft—Kyoto’s wax-resist dyeing (rōketsuzome). The project strongly aligns with the mission of MONO JAPAN and NN Life Japan to support the future of traditional craftsmanship through international collaboration. The jury appreciated the thoughtful concept and its potential to bridge past and future through design.

Left: Ousuke Kambayashi (SHOBIEN KYOTO) / right: Lena Winterink (Studio Lena Winterink)

We look forward to sharing the journey and outcomes of these collaborations in the coming months.