I like that it's in a quiet residential area, unlike other shops in Tokyo.

──Could you tell us again about the concept behind Paul Smith Space, which is now celebrating its fifth anniversary?

I've always loved this area. Space is the only shop in Japan where all Paul Smith lines are available under one roof. And I like that it's a standalone building, like a house. It has a garden, an art gallery on the third floor, and a terrace. To have all this in the heart of Tokyo feels like a dream. Of course, there are shops in LA, Paris, New York, Milan, and elsewhere that carry all the lines, but in Japan, it's only here at Paul Smith Space. These past five years have flown by in enjoyment.

──I heard there's also a photography exhibition to celebrate the 5th anniversary?

The name "Space" has a dual meaning: it refers to both physical space and outer space. One reason for naming it Space is that all lines and products are available here. The other is outer space. That's why the original shopping bags for Paul Smith Space feature a cloud pattern. Alan's photography exhibition also consists entirely of sky photos. Furthermore, this year marks the 50th anniversary of Gagarin's flight into space. It's quite a meaningful year, isn't it? (laughs).


──We hear you've had a deep bond with Alan for over 20 years.

Yes, I actually noticed him when he was a student at St. Martin's, and our relationship dates back to then. Initially, he came to work at Paul Smith's company. Now he's independent, runs his own company, and works on projects outside of fashion for Paul Smith, as well as doing freelance work. The first thing is, having worked with him for so long, it's incredibly easy, we have a real synergy. I think that's the key point. We've developed many things together and created various styles over the years, so I feel like we're comrades. Many art directors have their own distinct style, are stubborn, and aren't flexible, but Alan is very good at understanding my feelings and trying different tastes, which is why we get along so well. Most people change art directors every couple of years, but I've never even considered it.

──What are your thoughts on Alan's photography exhibition?

The way he presents the photographs at that scale is incredibly impactful, and the print quality is superb. What I particularly like about Alan's exhibition this time is that it doesn't scream "I am an artist"; instead, it has a grounded quality of wanting to share beautiful photographs with everyone. I really appreciate that. These photos by Alan are used on the original shopping bags for Paul Smith Space. Alan came up with the idea. What's great about our relationship is that there were no usage fees for that (laughs). I knew Alan had been taking photos from airplane windows for years, and when we named this place "Space," I thought he might have some good pictures. He's been taking them for about nine years, and he has many more. The contrast between the natural sky and the aircraft is unique and beautiful.

Actually, Mr. Paul Smith's visit to Japan wasn't solely due to the 5th anniversary of Paul Smith Space. There's another reason. It's a reason befitting a kind-hearted British gentleman, a knighted Sir Paul Smith.

"I came this time with the sole intention of supporting my staff and friends in Japan. I didn't hesitate for a second."

Watching him, he makes eye contact with each staff member with a smile. Everyone draws strength from him. No one calls Mr. Smith CEO or president. His nickname is "Boss." We also received a message to Japan from Mr. Smith. We'll be sharing it soon, so please look forward to it!