A Place That Inspires

"INTERSECT BY LEXUS," which opened last August, is a new space that embodies and proposes Lexus's concept of "quality of life." It features a bistro, shop, and exhibition space curated by top domestic and international creators, including Masamichi Katayama (Wonderwall INC.) and Towa Tei. It also hosts workshops with guests active in various fields. "Today's luxury isn't just about 'things,' but more about the 'atmosphere,' the feeling that permeates the space," commented Yoshiko Ikoma, touching on the changing consciousness of people over time and sharing her impressions of visiting "INTERSECT BY LEXUS."







This event was inspired by the spatial installation "LEXUS BY THE BEAUTY," temporarily exhibited in the first-floor "Garage." The exhibition featured photographic works by Fadiel Berisha, who captured the Lexus's flagship sports car, the "LFA," with Riyo Mori as the model. The visual design studio WOW expressed this world through video, and flower artist Masamasa Kawaguchi interpreted it through floral art. The "LFA" was placed at the center of these three works, completing a single spatial installation.

"He is also the official photographer for Miss Universe, and I was photographed by him many times during my reign. His approach is always artistic, so I was curious to see what he would feel when he saw the 'LFA.' His first word was 'Seduction!'—He said, 'Seduction.' I also approached the shoot with the image of a 'seductive' woman in mind, but expressing the 'LFA' through the human body was... challenging (laughs). It took about 14 hours? Just putting on that bodysuit took 30 minutes (laughs)," Mori recalled the shooting experience in New York.





In the artwork, she appears as a "symbol of beauty." Her lean, toned body, supple lines, and radiant skin that requires no retouching – her beauty, which is undeniable and truly befitting the title "symbol of beauty," begs the question: how was it achieved? We first asked them what kind of people they find beautiful.

"Outer appearances vary greatly from person to person, and the criteria and definition of beauty are different for everyone," Mori began. "However, what transcends these differences is the sight of someone looking straight ahead, never giving up, and pushing forward. It's inspiring." Mori's words, which find beauty in sincerity, evoke the image of an athlete. We then asked Sugiyama the same question. "I'm drawn to people who fully express their individuality. Inner qualities are reflected in their expressions and the atmosphere when they speak, so I find people who are naturally themselves to be attractive."

One's Daily Stance Manifests Under Pressure

The second-floor lounge where the talk show took place was designed as the home of a fictional character called "Mr. LEXUS." "It feels like a living room, so it's very relaxing. The comfortable atmosphere makes conversations flow easily and provides good inspiration. Even first-time visitors can quickly find their place here," said Riyo Mori, who is also a "regular."

The space, designed by Masamichi Katayama to feel both sophisticated and welcoming like a friend's home, features display styling by interior stylist Fumiko Sakuma. The food menu, including Mori's recommended curry rice and seasonal drinks, is overseen by food director Daichi Tajima. While guests were served coffee and light snacks in a relaxed atmosphere, the conversation turned to the secrets of beauty.





Both speakers agreed that beauty and youthfulness emanate from within. So, how do they cultivate their inner selves? "I tend to forget unpleasant things when I sweat," said Sugiyama, emphasizing that physical activity is the best way to keep both body and mind fresh.

"Indeed, the mind and body are one. Even when I don't feel like it mentally, a light body can lift my spirits, and vice versa. The synergy between the two leads to an overall uplift." Mori agreed wholeheartedly.

"People who exercise and train their bodies have a different aura," said Mori, who has been dancing since she was four years old. She is a highly accomplished dancer, having studied ballet in Canada during high school. Currently, she runs a dance academy in her hometown of Shizuoka with her mother, who was also a dancer, and teaches there. For Mori, dance is an integral part of her life.

"I always strive for balance by eating well and moving well. Dancing improves blood circulation, and it brightens my mood when I'm feeling down. Sweating and raising body temperature are crucial, as they allow for simultaneous mental and physical benefits."





Physical activity not only strengthens the body but also the mind, leading to better health. A sound mind fosters positive thinking, and its radiance awakens beauty. "I truly felt that one's daily stance in life manifests under pressure," Mori reflected on her experience at the Miss Universe pageant.

"While there's a part of being stoic and diligently handling the small details, it's also about living each day with gratitude, without forgetting to be thankful. I believe our daily mindset is reflected in our actions."

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Due to space limitations, we cannot cover everything, but during the event, Sugiyama spoke about her professional tennis career, Mori shared her beauty methods, and both discussed their mental training techniques. A practical stretching session was also conducted. Their words, backed by experience, were powerful and filled with positive messages.

"INTERSECT BY LEXUS" hosts various workshops with different guests every month. As its name, derived from "intersection," suggests a place where ideas and encounters cross and are born. An event by OPENERS is planned for March, which we hope you will look forward to. You are sure to discover hints that will enrich your lifestyle.

INTERSECT BY LEXUS
4-21-26 Minamiaoyama, Minato-ku, Tokyo
Tel. 03-6447-1540
Hours | 1F CAFE & GARAGE 9:00 AM – 11:00 PM
2F LOUNGE & SHOP 11:00 AM – 11:00 PM
www.lexus-int.com/jp/intersect/tokyo/