How to Relax, According to Home Economics Experiment
Who is Home Economics Experiment?
Home Economics Experiment (HEE) is an art project by two creators, Shon and Mayumi, based in Japan.
Our concept is to explore new possibilities within everyday living spaces by combining the ideas of home economics with experimental making methods and a sustainable approach.
We create one-of-a-kind pieces by reworking discarded or pre-owned furniture, such as chairs, mirrors, and lamps, and from thereon giving them new value. We also produce unique daily items and apparel using original fabrics, including bedding and cushions.
What is your favourite thing to do at home?
We love spending chill time in the garden at our studio.
Recently, a dog joined our team, so it has become even more lively. We usually listen to our favourite music and relax in the garden.
Where do you find inspiration for HEE products?
Most of our visual inspiration comes from the music and culture we love.
Since many of our products are made from pre-owned materials, ideas also come from the unique character of each item itself.
How would you describe Tokyo in one word?
We don’t create our work in Tokyo, but we often present our projects there, so it’s a familiar place for us.
For us, Tokyo is a high-energy city.
Who are your three favourite designers?
・ Peter Saville
・ Brian Eno
・ Spike Jonze
They aren’t all designers, but we are deeply inspired by artists whose work is closely connected to music. Their ideas and perspectives have influenced us a lot.
What would you be doing if you weren’t doing HEE?
Mayumi would probably be a designer or a ceramic artist—something related to design and making.
Shon would love to try being in a band.
How did the idea for “How to Relax” originate?
It began when we created a collection in collaboration with a hotel.
When analysing what defines a hotel experience, we felt that relaxation is the most essential element. From there, we came up with the idea of presenting “what it means to relax” in the form of a how-to concept.
What do you dislike most about being a designer?
Probably when we don’t feel respect from the people we’re working with (laughs).
Why did you use the word “Economic” in the brand name?
"Economic" is not meant in the standalone sense of the English word.
“HOME ECONOMICS” means household studies, and
“HOME ECONOMICS EXPERIMENT” reflects our idea of experimenting within the field of home economics. That is the origin of the name.
What was the strangest experiment you’ve done during the creation process?
During one of our exhibitions, a very important not-for-sale object was stolen from the display.
We were sad and upset, so the following year, when we held another event at the same location, we released a “missing object” T-shirt designed like a search notice.
Unfortunately, the object still hasn’t been found.
Thanks!!
Shon
