Shiro Kuramata was born in 1934 in Japan where he received traditional training in woodcrafts and later went on to work in a furniture factory. His university studies already had a heavy focus on the western concepts of interior design.

He is considered to be one of the most important Japanese designers of the 20th century. His style is characterised by the use of industrial materials such as wire steel mesh, lucite and corrugated aluminium to create interiors and furniture pieces. His style is said to incorporate the ever changing dynamism and creative energy of post-war Japan. While he heavily relies on traditional Japanese aesthetics, he also uses innovative materials. This unique blend has set to create a new and unique style which imposes surreal vision on everyday mundane objects. He is recognised not only by the art public but also by the French government that awarded him with one of the highest honours Ordre des Arts et des Lettres for his immense contribution to the spheres of art and design.