Clean & Clear

Naoko is expecting her second child in this photo, but her baby bump isn’t stopping her from dressing up. Her loose-fitting cotton top and drawstring pants are great for the heat, and she doesn’t forget to accessorize. “I would describe my style as simple and comfortable, but also innovative at the same time,” she says. “Natural materials like cotton, linen, and silk are important to me.” As a mother, and one-half of interior design firm Takenouchi Webb, Naoko says that she often finds it difficult to juggle work and life, but finds help in an understanding husband and a good helper. It also helps that she loves what she does. “Being in nice spaces and creating nice spaces brings me great pleasure,” she says. “Anticipating the final product, and imagining it as something very special, keeps me going.” Her advice, therefore, to anyone starting work is to find something you’re passionate about, and to always stay hungry. “Make sure what you are doing is what you like, and then work hard and absorb everything you can.” As a designer, her ideal workspace is one that allows her to talk and exchange ideas between. “It would be nice to be in a space that is tidy, yet relaxed, clean, fun and with lots of greenery!” Tidiness is a key word for Naoko, and she laughingly describes her “most boring hobby.” “I love to tidy up,” she says. “If I have free time, I’ll keep tidying up.” Naoko believes in not taking herself too seriously, and we think that’s one of the best ways to live. Her goal in life: “Laugh as much as I can before I put my foot in my coffin.”